Chainstitch Info / FAQ
What is Chainstitching?
Chainstitching is one of the prominent pre-digitial methods of embroidery. Chainstitch machines are specialized hand operated machines that create a unique looking stitch with a special handmade touch. Those varsity jackets your grandparents had? The original motorcycle club cuts? That cool bowling shirt from the 50's? All most likely chainstitched.
What Can You Embroider On? The best materials for chainstitching are heavy woven fabrics like canvas, felt, and especially denim. However, anything non-knit can be embroidered on with various degrees of success. I have embroidered on all weights of cotton, satin, leather, and more. Using an even more specialized post-bed machine I can embroider on sleeves, pant legs, and other hard to reach places.
Can You Embroider on T-Shirts of Sweatshirts? Yes... BUT. Tee shirts and sweatshits are made of knit fabric. The chainstitch needle is a large needle with a hook in it that can break some of those knit threads as it embroiders. Over time with wearing and washing those broken threads can start to unravel creating small tears and holes around the embroidery. It doesn't always happen and when it does it's not always noticeable. It is a risk you take working on those garments. I recommend sticking to monograms and single line script when doing so.
Can You Embroider on Hats? Using our post bed machine I can embroider on most hats. I only offer freehand script embroidery on hats, not logos or artwork. I have many blank hats available in stock on the website that you can customize, or you can send me your own hat!
Can You Embroider My Artwork? For the forseeable future all we are offering is the single line script text like the "Andy" example above, and customizable items on the website. Bring your items in to the store at any time to get stitched!
Are You Available for Events?
Now that I am vaccinated and things like in person events are becoming a thing again... Yes! I've worked events for many different brands including Levi's, Vans, Pac-Sun, Hedley & Bennett, Sézane, The Infatuation, NBC, Madewell & More. Please contact me with your event info & any questions and I will get back to you with my rates. I am based in Portland, OR but have the ability to travel anywhere with my setup, Southern California especially.
How much do custom chain stitch pieces cost? Small freehand script like your name on the front of a jacket in 1-2 words is $25 In-store only for your items. - It's the best deal for a simple customization (unless you get a customizable patch from the site )
can i wash my chainstitched garment?
Your finished chainstitch piece is generally more delicate than standard embroidered garments - take that into consideration. Personally I never wash my denim jackets but I understand you might not be totally comfortable with that. Dry cleaning is always a good option. For things like bandanas or garments you wash more often than jackets - wash cold and hang dry or dry flat.
How do i order a custom chainstitch piece?
For Small 1-2 word customizations:
Bring it by the shop anytime! 4831 SE DIVISION ST. PORTLAND, OR 97206