: I worked as an embroiderer for about 6 months in a small local shop, specifically making embroidered ball-caps. We preferred clients who came in with an already vectorized logo (Adobe Illustrator

I worked as an embroiderer for about 6 months in a small local shop, specifically making embroidered ball-caps.

We preferred clients who came in with an already vectorized logo (Adobe Illustrator .ai or .eps format or Corel Draw .cdr format). It was an extra charge if we had to vectorize the logo for the client.
Our machines could only handle a maximum of 10 thread colors per design. I would make sure your logo would not exceed that. You will get to pick the thread colors you want from a swatch book in the store. From what I remember, it was usually not significantly more expensive to add colors. The final stitch count, the number of items to be embroidered and the timeline of the job (ie. if you wanted it rushed for the next morning) were the big determining factors in the price.
We would then convert the logo to a custom embroidery stich file (.POF) and based on the final stitch count of the design, we would put together a final quote with an embroidered swatch sample. The reason a more complicated design with a higher stich count would be more expensive is because it takes much longer for the machine to stitch the design.

That being said, every shop is unique and may have significantly different equipment and pricing. I recommend you just give them a call and get all the details straight from the shop. Hope that helps!

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