FAQ
Basically, embroidery is priced according to the number of stitches in the embroidered design. The larger and more stitch intensive the design, the higher the cost. As an example, a cap or left chest sized design will generally be less expensive than a large jacketback design.
See our Apparel page under the Products for People tab for a more detailed explanation of what is involved in creating and delivering a finished embroidered product.
If the embroidered garment or accessory is washable, our embroidery is washable. The items we sell and embroider have the manufacturers’ care instructions on their labels and these instructions are correct for the garment or item itself. However, embroidery is different from the underlying garment or article. As with any garment or item you care about, special care should be taken when laundering embroidered items.
We use quality polyester embroidery thread, which is both strong and resilient, but it is not immune to damage. Do not wring out embroidered articles or rub stained embroidery.
The three greatest risks to embroidery are snagging, chlorine bleach and hot irons. Turn embroidered garments inside out before washing so the fine embroidery doesn’t snag on rough fabrics. (We recommend hand washing for hats.) Machine wash using cold or warm water and the delicate wash cycle. Do not wash with bras or any other garment with hooks or zippers or anything else that can snag the embroidery. Do not pack embroidered items tightly in the washing machine.
All embroidered garments should be washed with a mild (neutral) detergent. If bleach is required for washing, non-chlorine bleach in accordance with product instructions can be used. However, be aware that even non-chlorine bleach or laundry “brighteners” can cause uneven color loss in some garments and non-wearable articles (such as towels), especially those that are dark in color. Some detergents contain hidden non-chlorine bleach or laundry “brighteners.” For that reason, Vanity Threads recommends that you use a gentle, neutral detergent and avoid bleach and laundry “brighteners.” Upon completion of washing cycle place articles in dryer immediately, using low heat settings. If items must be ironed be sure to cover all embroidery with a pressing cloth to melting the thread with a hot iron.
We've tested our clip collars and velvet-lined Martingales on our Rhodesian Ridgebacks over the years. They stood up well to repeated hand washings so we are confident in recommending that you hand wash these items with either a neutral laundry detergent (without bleach or additives) or Dawn dishwashing liquid, rinse and then hang them to air dry. DO NOT soak your collars or Martingales as it may damage the hardware.
No and yes. Photos or artwork must be digitized or turned into stitches before they can become an embroidery design. We can turn your good quality digital photo or artwork into a design, but it takes time and you will incur a one-time charge, often for a not unsubstantial amount, for the digitizing in addition to the cost of the garment or accessory you choose to be embroidered. The good news is that once digitized, the design can be sewn an infinite number of times on any suitable item(s).
We work very hard to get all orders completed and shipped to you as quickly as possible. Domestic orders for in-stock merchandise generally ship within 48 hours via the USPS. (Please note that our local USPS location is not open on Saturday afternoon or Sunday.) All orders for custom made items, such as drool bibs, custom collars, etc. and custom embroidered garments and accessories can take up to 3 weeks to manufacture or complete. There are rare exceptions due to back orders and other supply chain problems beyond our control, but we will keep you informed of any delays in finalizing your order.
We want you to be happy with your purchase. Each bib is machine embroidered and handcrafted by Bruce and Pat. Each collar, martingale or lure coursing lead is handmade by us. We stand behind our work. Returns and exchanges are accepted for ready made bibs, clip collars, martingales or lure coursing leads. The item must be in new condition and return shipping costs are the customer's responsibility.
Returns cannot be accepted for special order items if the item has been customized unless there is an obvious flaw in workmanship. The customer is responsible for carefully reviewing and approving order details and/or mock ups of embroidery designs for custom orders. Be sure to check the SPELLING of uncommon words or names. We cannot be held responsible for the failure of the customer to correct any errors or notify Vanity Threads of changes prior to embroidery or the manufacture of collars, bibs, etc.
Returns cannot be accepted for damaged products, including bibs, clip collars, martingales and lure coursing leads. Damage or wear and tear caused by your dog, another dog or your laundry technique is not our responsibility.
If you need to return an item, please contact us with your order number and details about the product you would like to return. We will respond quickly with instructions for how to return items from your order. Refunds & exchanges must be made within 30 days.