Getting it right on outer workwear

Working outdoors, clothes have to withstand the elements and conditions. Garments therefore are rugged and durable but these qualities prove to be more difficult for embroiderers. Natalie Greetham, marketing manager at Madeira UK explains how choosing the right products could help keep your work looking professional.

Logo embroidered onto a padded parka

Embroidering on outdoor workwear demands both durability and precision. The products you choose will be determined by the type of garment to be embroidered and will need specific properties to withstand the work environment. There can be some challenges embroidering on outerwear, but none that can’t be solved with some attention to detail and selecting the correct products.

Where to begin

Placement must account for construction features such as seams, hoods, pockets, and zips, which can cause distortion or obscure visibility. Many garments have internal access points within the lining, ideal for framing and neatly concealing the reverse side of the embroidery.

Polyester thread remains the industry standard for outdoor workwear embroidery due to its tensile strength, abrasion resistance, and colourfastness. Madeira’s polyneon green (recycled polyester) range offers various thicknesses, including fine 60-weight and 75-weight, which are recommended for fine detail and small lettering. Match this with the smallest needle suited to your thread; sharp-point needles are recommended for tough outerwear fabrics.

Logo on softshell jacket

Finishing the job

For stabilisation, use tear-away backing for a clean finish and consider magnetic frames for bulky or padded garments with awkward seams or zips. For slippery items or when you need to embroider through padding, Avalon water-soluble topping provides extra stability, helps control movement, and prevents the design from distorting.

On waterproof garments, stitching may compromise protection. After embroidery, a heat-pressed water seal film can be applied on the back of the embroidery to restore a watertight barrier.

By combining the right thread, needle and backing and carefully considering placement, you can achieve professional, resilient embroidery that enhances workwear without compromising its performance.