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Embroidery machinery has come a long way from ancient methods. Now embroidery technology allows the most complex designs to be completely automated. Here is a look at embroidery advancements throughout history.
There are two types of machine embroidery. One is using sewing machines and hand stitches, known as manual machine embroidery. The other type uses machinery designed specifically for embroidery and is automated to create designs from pre-purchased design that are read in a digital format. This more advanced type of embroidery is currently the most popular. It is a much more cost-effective method for embroidery.
Current embroidery machinery relies on digital formats of designs. In 1980, a computerized embroidery system was designed. It was however, somewhat limited and not affordable for the consumer. However, advances in technology have allowed the prices of computers and embroidery software to drop drastically, making it available to the embroidery enthusiast.
Embroidery machinery on the commercial market can range in price from anywhere to $2,000 to $125,000 for the largest models. Large factories can run embroidery machines for up to 24 hours a day for large-scale production. Smaller factories can simply run several small machines to meet production demands.
All types of commercial embroidery factories need essential embroidery software. This software puts the embroidery design into a digitized format that can be read by embroidery machines. These embroidery file formats include ART, SEW, VIP, JEF, among others. Embroidery software at the entry level can range in price from free to several thousand dollars. High ends software can cost upward of $5,000. However, these software programs are equipped with great advanced features and are necessary for quality embroidery designs.
Digitizing embroidery designs is a very complicated process that requires hours of training for good results. Even with professional level quality software, problems can still occur if essential digitizing practices are not applied.
Embroidery is a beautiful method for embellishing and customizing apparel and accessories. Thanks to advances in technology, large quantities of products can be created in a fraction of the time and at a fraction of the cost.
Angela Oliver is a contributing author for EmbroideryAuthority.com, specializing is custom embroidered logos. Please visit the site at EmbroideryAuthority.com for more information about embroidery machinery and the embroidery process. |
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