ARE YOU AVAILABLE FOR IN-PERSON EVENTS?
Yes! We love to stitch on-site! Shoot us a message with some information about your event (especially the date) and we can answer any questions you may have.
HOW DO I GET IN TOUCH?
If you would like to have us stitch at your event, head on over to the Contact section on the header and send us a message. Tell us a little about your event and we will get back to you shortly with the details!
DO YOU PROVIDE THE PRODUCT TO BE CUSTOMIZED AT EVENTS?
No, but we provide everything else needed including the sewing machine and custom table, thread, stabilizer paper and the chain stitch artist! You just provide the items to be stitched, a small space to set up, and access to power.
HOW MUCH DOES YOUR ON-SITE SERVICES COST?
For our in-person, live chain stitching we charge an hourly rate which changes depending on the size of your event and specifications. Contact us with the details of your event and we will get back to you with a quote!
WHAT IS A FLASH SHEET? CAN I GET A CUSTOM FLASH SHEET FOR MY EVENT?
A flash sheet is a collection of images, not including text like words or names. Our flash sheets consist of simple images like moons, daisies, lightning bolts, hearts, cactus, etc. We would love to create a custom flash sheet for your event that matches your color scheme and aesthetic. We can provide our classic collection of images or you can suggest your own! Just let us know what you have in mind when you contact us.
HOW MANY CUSTOMIZATIONS CAN I EXPECT TO BE COMPLETED AT MY EVENT?
We can usually complete an estimated 15-20 customizations an hour. This includes stitching the designs and tying off threads to keep the embroidery in place. This, of course, depends on the length, size, intricacy of designs, and product. This is something to consider when deciding how many hours you would like the artist to be present at your event!
WHAT CAN I HAVE EMBROIDERED?
Our favorite fabrics to embroider on are on the heavier side, like denim, canvas, thick cotton, and felt, but most fabrics can be stitched on. Just remember: high quality fabrics will not only hold up better over time, but the embroidery will just look better! Embroidery involves the repeated puncture of fabric with a needle, which can impact the structure of thinner fabrics over time. We tend to avoid working with fabrics that are sheer or have a thick, non-removable liner.
CAN YOU DO BULK CUSTOMIZATION ORDERS?
Yes! We love working on custom orders! Be sure to include information on the volume you have in mind when you inquire about a project.
WHAT ARE THE THREAD COLOR OPTIONS FOR CUSTOMIZATION?
We have a large variety of thread color options. When inquiring about a customization project, please be as specific as possible so we can select a color that matches what your vision. The possibilities are endless!
CAN YOU TRANSLATE MY ARTWORK INTO CHAIN STITCH?
We would LOVE to! Keep in mind, though, that not all artwork will translate well into chain stitch. Very fine lines and intricate designs can get a bit muddled. Chain stitch works best with bold designs. Feel free to send an image of what you have in mind and we are more than happy to start a collaboration. In most cases, we can make it work with minimal adjustments.
DO YOU OFFER MENDING AND CUSTOM ORDERS?
Absolutely! We are passionate about preserving your favorite pieces and giving worn clothing new life. Visible mending is a great option to add longevity to a garment that you love. Each mending project is different and there are limitations to what we can make happen, but do not hesitate to send us a message and we can collaborate on a solution!
Also, if you have an idea about embellishing an article of clothing, message us with details. We would love to collaborate with you!
HOW MUCH DOES CUSTOMIZATION COST?
Customization starts at $25 + the cost of shipping (if necessary). This covers a monogram, 1-2 words in simple, freehand script. The price of customization depends on the size and intricacy of the artwork or text. Be sure to be as detailed as possible in your inquiry so we can provide you with an accurate quote.
WHAT IS CHAIN STITCH EMBROIDERY?
Chain stitch embroidery is done using a specific type of sewing machine that produces a looped stitch resembling a linked chain. Chain stitch machines use a single thread that is looped back on itself without the use of a bobbin. Unlike traditional machine embroidery, the chain stitch process is completely non-computerized. Stitching is done by hand using a handle under the table that steers the needle in the desired direction. This requires a considerable amount of practice (and hand-eye coordination) on the part of the operator. The resulting embroidery has a vintage, hand-drawn look. The handmade nature of the art form means that no two pieces are exactly the same.
WHAT TYPE OF MACHINE DO YOU USE?
All Creeptown chain stitch embroidery products are created using a rare 19th Century Schirmer, Blau & Co machine. It’s well over a hundred years old, still runs flawlessly and has earned a beautiful patina. Our particular machine has a placard reading “Joseph Schifter New York”, who was a well-known sewing machine parts and repair shop operator who was said to be an expert in Bonnaz (chain stitch) embroidery machines. His shop was located in the historic 131 West 21st Street building in Manhattan. We will never know how this machine ended up in Southern California, where we acquired it, but love the idea of keeping an art form of the past alive!