In commercial embroidery, time is money and quality is everything. At ETC Supplies, we work with embroidery businesses across the UK and Europe, from small custom shops to high-volume manufacturers. We’ve seen the most common errors that cost time and waste materials. The good news? Most are easy to fix with the right know-how and the right supplies.
Here are five embroidery mistakes we see all too often, and how to avoid them.
1. Using the Wrong Backing for the Fabric
The foundation of every good embroidery job is your backing.
The mistake: Using tearaway on stretch fabrics or not using a strong enough cutaway on heavier garments.
The fix: Match the backing to both the garment and the design size. At ETC, we supply a wide range of weights, pre-cuts, and specialist backings to suit every job.
2. Poor Hoop Tension or Fabric Slippage
Hooping may seem basic, but it’s a major cause of misalignment and puckering.
The mistake: Hooping fabric too loosely or too tightly, leading to poor registration and distorted stitching.
The fix: Always hoop with even tension across the frame. Our range of Mighty Hoops make hooping so much easier with their magnetic framing.
3. Ignoring Needle Condition and Type
Embroidery needles don't last forever, and choosing the wrong one can wreak havoc.
The mistake: Using a dull needle, or the wrong size/type for the material and thread.
The fix: Change needles regularly, especially during large production runs. For commercial embroidery, we recommend titanium-coated or ballpoint needles depending on fabric type. ETC Supplies stocks a variety of needle types to suit the project you are working on.
4. Improper Thread Tension Settings
Even with top-of-the-line threads, poor tension leads to breakage, looping, and uneven coverage.
The mistake: Relying on factory settings without adjusting for thread type, design density, or machine wear.
The fix: Regularly test and adjust top and bobbin tension. Our pre-wound bobbins and Durak threads are engineered for smoother, more consistent performance, minimising breakage and downtime.
5. Skipping the Sample Stitch-Out
In fast-paced environments, skipping the test run may seem like a time-saver. It isn’t.
The mistake: Going straight into production without stitching a sample.
The fix: Always stitch a sample on the same fabric and backing as the final garment. This step catches problems early, saving you from costly reruns.
Final Thoughts
Avoiding these mistakes comes down to three things: the right materials, the right techniques, and partnering with the right supplier.
At ETC Supplies, we’ve supported commercial embroiderers for over three decades with premium backings, threads, needles, and more. We don’t just deliver products, we help you deliver quality.
Need advice on optimising your setup or troubleshooting persistent issues? Our team is here to help, contact us today.