- Choose the correct needle for the fabric you are embroidering on. Typically a cotton or cotton blend dress shirt will require a sharp needle as opposed to a ballpoint needle or a wedge point needle. The size of the sharp needle can vary, but a #70 or #75 seems works best on dress shirts. Silk fabrics or satin fabrics will require a smaller sharp needle. Take the shirt you are monogramming to the sewing specialty store if you have questions; the store expert can assist you in choosing the right sharp needle size.
- Choose a complementary thread for the monogram on the dress shirt. Adjust your sewing machine's tension in line with the thread type so that the monogram will sew correctly. Experiment with a fabric type that is similar to the shirt you will be embroidering so that you can determine the correct tension settings before embroidering the shirt. It is important to have a sharp needle for the tension to adjust correctly. The speed at which you sew can effect the tension; if it seems too tight, slow down the speed at which you are monogramming.
- Choose the correct backing for your embroidery. Stretchy fabric works best when you use a cutaway backing; tearaway backing can be used on fabrics that do not stretch. Backing material creates a stable surface for your monogram; skipping this step will make the monogram process more difficult.
- Placement is vital for a monogram on a dress shirt or any item. Traditionally, the monogram should be placed on the left front side of the dress shirt. Measure down 7 1/2 to 9 inches down from the shoulder seam and 4 to 6 inches over from the center. Place a stick pin in the shirt and try the shirt on to ensure you will be satisfied with the placement before monogramming.
Needle Selection
Thread Selection and Tension Settings
Backing Selection
Monogram Placement
SHARE
