Thread Colors & Placement Guide

Smart color choices and consistent placement make your apparel look truly professional. We match brand colors, recommend thread types, and use proven placement measurements for every garment.

Ask About Color Matching Upload Your Logo

Thread Colors & Brand Matching

Provide Pantone Solid Coated values if available. We’ll match from our thread library.
Most designs use 1–6 colors; up to 8 colors possible depending on art and machine setup.
Metallic, matte, and specialty threads (fire-resistant, glow, variegated) available on request.
High-contrast outlines improve readability on textured fabrics (pique, knits, beanies).
Gradients are simplified into solid steps or hatching for clean embroidery.

We’ll include a color-callout on your proof. Physical sew-outs available for mission-critical matches.

Standard Logo Placements

We follow consistent measurements so your apparel looks uniform across sizes and styles. Measurements below are guidelines—fabric stretch, seams, and brand construction may require small adjustments.

Garment & Location	Typical Size	Standard Placement	Notes
Polo/Shirt – Left Chest	3.0–3.5" wide	~7–9" down from shoulder seam; ~3–4" from center	Keep clear of placket; adjust for pocket styles.
Polo/Shirt – Right Chest	3.0–3.5" wide	Mirror of left chest	Often used for name or secondary mark.
Hat – Front	Up to ~4.5" × 2.25"	Centered above brim, accounting for crown panels	Curvature limits height; bold shapes read best.
Hat – Left/Right Panel	~2.25" × 1.25"	Centered on side panel	Great for flags, slogans, or web address.
Sleeve – Left/Right	Wordmarks 0.75–1.25" tall	Centered between seam and cuff hem	Mind seam bulk on heavy sweatshirts.
Jacket – Full Back	8–12" wide (design dependent)	Centered between shoulder seams	Consider appliqué for very large fills.
Bags/Totes	3–5" wide typical	Centered on front panel	Stabilizer choice depends on fabric thickness.

Why Consistent Placement Matters

Uniform appearance across sizes and styles
Clean alignment with seams, pockets, and zippers
Better readability and brand recognition

Thread Types & Stabilizers

Common Thread Options

Polyester: durable, colorfast—best all-around for uniforms and outdoor use.
Rayon: soft sheen for premium garments (dress shirts, corporate wear).
Metallic: specialty sparkle; slower run speeds and may add lead time.
Fire-resistant: meets specific safety requirements (ask for details).

Backing/Stabilizer Choices

Cut-away: knit fabrics and polos; best stability for daily wear.
Tear-away: woven fabrics and hats; clean removal.
Performance knits: light cut-away + topping; prevents sink-in.
Beanies/fleece: water-soluble topping for crisp edges.

Pro Tips for Great Results

Use bold shapes and strong contrast for small marks.
Outline light logos on light garments for readability.
Avoid ultra-thin strokes and micro text (see Artwork Guide limits).

Send garment color/brand so we can pre-check thread and hooping.
Keep left-chest width near 3.25" for most sizes (S–XL); scale slightly for 2XL+.
For heavy fills on hats, consider simplified versions to maintain shape.

Lock in your colors & placement

Request a Proof Upload Your Logo

We serve Louisville, Oldham County, and surrounding areas with fast, local support.

For more information, please contact us.

Embroidery - Thread Colors & Placement Guide