Custom Patches Queen Help

Help With Your Custom Embroidered Patches

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Artwork | browse all artwork questions |

What format is best to send in my artwork for patches?
If I don't have artwork available, can you make me artwork?
I'll need new artwork developed and several versions reviewed by committee?
Can I see examples of patches you have made?
Can you look at my artwork first to see if it will make a great patch?
When do I send you my artwork to make patches?
Can you make a different size then you offer on your website?
Can you make patches from artwork I found online?
Can you make Glitter/Neon/Metallic/Glow in the Dark thread, embroidered patches?
How many thread colors can you use on a patch?

Ordering | browse all Ordering questions |

Can I order less than 50 patches, can you do that?
Can I split an order of patches in to two designs for one order?
Are my patches being made?
Is there a setup fee?
How fast can I get patches?
How can I bring a custom patches quote back to my group?
I don't have a credit card, how can I order? Can I order by PO?
I want a Promo Code ! What are the rules for using a Promo Code?
Is it secure and safe to order online?
I want 425 patches but I only get a price break at 400 or 450. Why?
I want 50,000 patches but your price quantities only go up to 20,000?
What is the price for...? How much would it cost...?
Can you do Velcro patches? Can you make Iron On patches? What backing choices do you have?
Can you edge my patch with a merrow or overlock stitch?

Shipping | browse all Shipping questions |

Where can you ship to?
What shipping levels do you offer?
How much is it to ship to Hawaii /Puerto Rico ?

Payment | browse all Payment questions |

What payment types do you offer?
Will you accept checks or bank wire transfers?
Why are online orders discounted 10%?
What is your refund policy?
Why do I have to enter my credit card if you don't charge it ?

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Artwork

What format is best to send in my artwork for patches?

Simple Answer

The best format is a large jpg of your patch artwork. If that is not possible, then simply send what you can. I will go over your artwork with my graphics person and if it will work, I'll proceed with your order. If not, I'll work through how to make it right. You won't be charged until you approve the digital proof I will send you so your patches aren't just going to show up wrong. You will get the final approval. Some clients get upset because they forget to approve their proof and I never make their order. That just shows how serious I am not moving forward without your approval. I have turned small crummy artwork in to fairly nice patches but if your artwork really is small, fuzzy and low resolution I will let you know. I'll do a digital proof first for you to approve and then I'll sew one patch for you to approve as well.

Technical Answer
If you can, simply save your artwork as a jpg about double the size. So artwork for a 2" x 2" Patch at 300 dpi is 600 pixels by 600 pixels. Anything between 600 pixels and 1,200 pixels (on the longest side) will work great for a patch. I have CS4, CorelDraw X5, Publisher, MS Word and many other programs to convert your artwork to a nice clean jpg. Huge 10 MB graphic files will not produce better patches because most patches are quite small and the fine details get lost in the size and the stitching. If you require super fine details then embroidered patches may not be what you need. With a nice clean jpg, your patches quality will be exceptional.

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If I don't have artwork available, can you make me artwork?

Yes, I can make your artwork for you. See what Artwork level of the four below, you fit in to.

Artwork Level 1- If you send me nice clean artwork in a format that I can convert to a nice clean jpg there is no charge to show you a proof after you have ordered. This is considered "No Artwork Help"

Artwork Level 2- If you need me to alter a simple color, add simple text or remove something simple from your own artwork that you send me during the order process there may be a nominal fee of $10 for the change you want. This would be considered "Minor Artwork Help".

Artwork Level 3- If you need new, simple artwork based on your description or idea, I charge a low price of $25. Most of my customers who want a name and an image put together will fit in to this $25 fee. This is considered "Full Artwork Help". See the next question below for a quick and easy solution for your artwork needs.

Artwork Level 4- For more complex artwork or to rebuild your small fuzzy artwork (low resolution) I will not start the artwork until I quote you an accurate price. For complex artwork, a low investment of $45 - $75 is required.

More information about these artwork levels can be found here.

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I'll need new artwork developed and several versions reviewed by committee?

If you need several versions of full artwork produced, there are two ways you can get that done. You can get me to do it based on your ideas which will cost between $25 and $75 per draft or an inexpensive way to get that done, is for you to look through this website here;
http://www.clipart.com/en/index (opens in new window)

When you search for 'penguins' for example, you will be shown a few hundred ideas. Click on the one you like and you'll see an "Item No." (example: Item: #21867009 ) When you place your patches order with me, give this item number and explain what you want done. (example: "Add text "Go Warriors" to the top in red.") I will use that as a guide or inspiration for your very own custom embroidered patches.

I have a full service graphics arts department here and can satisfy the most demanding client. The only limitation is your imagination and budget.

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Can I see examples of patches you have made?

Yes, of course. Simply send me an email using my address on my contact page here, and I'll send you an example of my past work. Please be sure to include your company, organization, school or groups name since I keep track of that.

I will send you patches from past customers to show you the quality of them. I know that you will find them to be the highest quality, If you don't want to wait for samples to arrive by mail then simply place an order today worry free. I have a 100% money back no hassle, and no

questions guarantee.

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Can you look at my artwork first to see if it will make a great patch?

To help you decide whether your artwork will make a great patch, simply place an order and upload your artwork at the end of the order process. I will create a digital proof and email you a link where you can see it. Below the digital proof I make you is a big "Approved" button. If you press it I will start on the sewn version of your patch for your approval. If you don't Approve the digital proof I can help you fix it or you can do nothing and your patches won't be made. Your credit card will not be charged.

It's tough for me to view artwork before you place an order, sorry. I get so many people every day asking for me to view their artwork and then they don't place an order after I look at it. I rather spend the time working on good clients work.
Order your patches today and you'll be thrilled with the results. To help yourself, you can print out your artwork at the size you're thinking about ordering. Does it look good on paper? If yes, then it will look even better as a patch since my manufacturing process is state of the art !

More helpful information about your artwork can be found here.

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When do I send you my artwork to make patches?

My Magic Quote page will walk you through the process, step by step. When you've completed your quote, you can print it out to take it back to your group, or turn the quote in to an order. When you've entered in your information you'll be asked to upload your artwork.

Don't worry if you upload the wrong file, or can't find your artwork that moment. With your ordered entered, I'll email you along with a link to upload your artwork to the same spot. I've automated everything. If your artwork uploaded please do not email it as well. Getting multiple copies of your artwork will only slow your order down. If there's a problem I'll let you know right away.

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Can you make a different size than you offer on your website?

Yes, I can make any size you wish starting at a 0.5" x 0.5" up to 21" x 18". My pricing is based on 0.5" increments, but you can make your patch a little smaller or a little bigger. Please let me know if there's a reason that your patch has to be an exact size since your patches final size may be off by up to 1/8" because of cutting or edging. It is not uncommon for a 3.5" patch to come back as 3.45". This is normal for the embroidered patch industry.

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Can you make patches from artwork I found online?

I can make custom embroidered patches using any artwork that you have the legal rights to use. You need to have permission to use artwork from professional sports teams, companies and celebrities. If you are not the creator of the artwork and you don't have direct contact with the copyright owner then you probably do not have permission to use it for patches. I have the right to refuse producing patches from any artwork without proper documentation showing you are the owner of the artwork or have the rights to use it.

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Can you make Glitter/Neon/Metallic/Glow in the Dark thread, embroidered patches?

Yes I can. My minimum order for specialty patches is 1,500 pieces. The price of my specialty patches is between 20% to 200% depending on the size of the patch you want and the special feature you want used. If the minimum quantity meets your needs email me at jen@custompatchesqueen.com

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How many thread colors can you use on a patch?

I can use up to 9 thread colors to make your patches. I normally pick the colors for you but you can choose the colors yourself. Ask me about a link to my thread colors. I'll be sure to show you a digital proof of your artwork and then a sewn sample of your patch before completing your order so don't worry about getting the colors right.

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Ordering

Can I order less than 50 patches, can you do that?

My minimum order for patches is 50. This is so that I can work hard on good orders. If you check my competitors pricing for smaller quantities you'll find that the total cost is basically the same as my 50 piece price. I think you'll find that even with a small group, or just yourself you'll find ways to use the few extras left over.

Can I split an order of patches in to two designs for one order?

My Magic Quote page will allow you to add a second design, yes. Please know that the pricing for two designs of 100 patches is greater then one design of 200 patches. With the additional work to create your digital proof and sewn sample for your approval, the pricing must be calculated this way.

Are my patches being made?

There are four steps that are taken before your patches get made.
1) You place an order.
2) I get your approval on a digital proof.
3) I get your approval on a sewn sample.
4) I start production and ship to you.

You will be emailed a link to a personal web page, set up just for you, that shows your digital proof within two business days or sooner. A big Approved button is below your proof. If it looks good to you then you will click on the Approved button. This sends me a message letting me know to get started on making your sewn sample. When your sewn sample is uploaded, you'll get an email link giving you an opportunity to approve that as well. If you approve the sewn sample production will start.

If you haven't received any emails from me then you either entered your email address incorrectly or your spam filter is blocking my emails. Check your spam folder and look up the status here.

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Is there a setup fee?

There are no setup fees to make your own custom embroidered patches. The price I quote in my Magic Quote page is all that you will pay. This includes up to nine colors of thread. If you need artwork check out prices here for getting custom artwork made.

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How fast can I get patches?

For most orders I can be shipping out in 8-12 days or so. Ground shipping is free of charge. To get your patches faster you would simply choose a faster shipping method.

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How can I bring a custom patches quote back to my group?

After your enter my Magic Quote page you'll answer a few questions like the size, the quantity and what backing you want on your patches. At that point you will be presented with a detailed quote. A button on that page allows you to display a full quotation on my letter head. You can print this off and bring it back to your group for approval. I work hard to maintain the lowest prices possible but please be aware that prices can change over time so printed quotes are only valid for 30 days.

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I don't have a credit card, how can I order? Can I order by PO?

I can accept an order using a formal Purchase Order from registered schools, large companies and charitable organizations. My minimum order using a PO is 2,000 patches. If you need less then 2,000 patches then you will have to use a credit card or send in a check. To get started you will fill out the PO Signup form here. I will review your application and get any documents necessary. When I approve your application you will be able to order patches and I will send you an invoice. Invoices are due 30 days after you order.

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I want a Promo Code ! What are the rules for using a Promo Code?

I can accept a Promo Code from you that I have sent to you, or a friend has given you. Some Promo Codes expire, so if my system does not accept it, the Promo Code is no longer valid. I generally send out Promo Codes when I need a boost in sales, or if you've ordered several orders from me already.

Promo Code Rules

- A Promo Code cannot be combined with any other offer.
- Promo Codes apply to the price of the patches only. Shipping and artwork fees (if applicable) are not discounted.
- Maximum total discount is $300.
- Regular ground shipping included with online orders only.
- Promo Codes cannot be used on Purchase Orders (POs) or Phone Orders.
- One use per customer.

My main goal is to deliver high quality custom embroidered patches at an affordable price. Using my online system saves me time and is built to be easy and convenient for you.

I generally send Promo Codes at certain times of the year or if you have placed several orders.

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Is it secure and safe to order online?

Yes. My system uses the latest technology to keep your information safe and secure. When you use my Magic Quote page, your name and email address are entered in to a very secure system. This system does not allow me to email you without your permission. Every email I send to you has a safe unsubscribe link at the bottom. If you unsubscribe there is no way that I can contact you again.
When you do place an order with me, your web browser will be forced in to a safe encrypted mode using SSL encryption. I have purchased a Thawte certificate which is only issued back to me after I prove that my order system is secure and I prove that I am who I say I am. When your order comes through to me your credit card information is encrypted. All that I can see for your credit card number is the last four digits. (example ************4516 ) I cannot take this information and use it anywhere else. This is much more safe then handing your credit card to a waiter or gas attendant as they can copy all of your information down. I also use a special program that locks out hackers who attempt to gain access to my secure server. If 5 passwords are entered incorrectly the hacker is blocked from my server. A brute force attack (which some hackers use to get to personal information) takes hundreds of thousands of tries to get in to a server (if not millions of attempts) and to guess my password before a hacker can gain entry. If a hacker (or grumpy employee) did gain access to my secure server they would only find the last four digits of your credit card info making the information useless to them.

There is very little more that anyone can do to keep your information safe.

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I want 425 patches but I only get a price break at 400 or 450. Why?

In figuring out pricing so that you may easily order online, I took common quantities that people order from me. So that I didn't drive my web guy crazy with thousands of price break levels, I had to choose common quantities to give better prices at. At lower quantities, below 500 pieces, you will get a better price by reaching the next 50 piece level. (Example: order 150, not 125 for a better price) As the quantities increase above 1,000 you need to order at quantity breaks of 200 pieces. (Example: order 5,600 not 5,580 for a better price). It would be too complicated to have a price break at every quantity level and my web guy still talks nice to me. On the final quote page you can alter the quantity and update your pricing to see what reduction in price you get for ordering more patches.

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I want 50,000 patches but your price quantities only go up to 20,000?

With the higher cost of shipping large quantities of patches varying so much from location to location, it becomes more difficult for me to predict the pricing at higher quantities. Also, a higher stitch count at lower quantities is only a few pennies difference which I don't mind selling for the same standard price online. At higher quantities those differences become significant. If you need higher quantities, I'd be happy to quote a very competitive and reasonable price based on your specific details. Please don't hesitate to email me at jen@custompatchesqueen.com.

What is the price for...? How much would it cost...?

My Magic Quote page will answer those types of questions instantly. When you select only a few options in my quote page it will tell you the price for your patches, how much shipping will cost and when the patches will arrive. Go now to try it out!

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Can you do Velcro patches? Can you make Iron On patches? What backing choices do you have?

Yes, I can make virtually any type of custom patch you need. My online Magic Quote page has the most common choices available but if you don't see what you need please email me your request and I'm sure I can take care of it. The most common custom patches backs are;

1) Iron On Backing - An iron on patch makes it really easy to heat seal your custom embroidered patch on to any garment, bag or other item. Once ironed on, the patch will remain in place permanently. Complete instructions are sent to you along with your patches.

2) Velcro Backing - Using a Velcro backing allows you to apply your custom embroidered patch to any 'hook friendly' surface or material. The Velcro allows you to remove your patch from a garment before you wash it. This will keep your patches looking bright and new, avoiding any unnecessary wear and tear. Velcro Backing is great for uniforms that get washed and worn on a regular basis.

3) Plain Backing- having nothing on the back is the cheapest choice and allows you to sew it on to any garment, bag or other item.

Can you edge my patch with a merrow or overlock stitch?

Yes. My pricing includes a neat cut edge (either heat cut or simply a scissor cut) or a merrow edge. A merrow or overlock stitch is the neat thread that edges patches. It is looped around tightly by machine and gives the little bump or edge all around. You lose up to 1/8" because of this edging but it gives a nice finished look.

| click image for larger view |	| click image for larger view |
Merrow Edge | larger image |	Neat Cut - Scissor Edge | larger image |

 

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Shipping

Where can you ship custom patches?

I can ship anywhere in the World. My website is meant for customers who are shipping to addresses in the USA or International. If you are shipping to Canada, it would be best if you used my Canada Custom Patches site (coming soon -email me). Between this website and the Canada site I can ship to anywhere in the world.

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What shipping levels do you offer?

I offer three ways for you to ship your custom patches. In the USA there is Ground, 2-Day Express and Next Day Express. Because I consolidate many shipments to one area it is not possible to use your shipping account, or use another carrier. Sorry. When shipping Internationally I can only ship Express.

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How much is shipping to Hawaii / Puerto Rico ?

All of my ground shipping rates are based on the continental USA. (lower 48 states) I cannot ship "Ground Shipping" when shipping to Hawaii, unfortunately. You must choose Express Next Day.

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Payment

What payment types do you offer?

The quickest way to process your order is if you pay online, through my Magic Quote page using a Visa, Master Card, American Express or PayPal. For orders of 2,000 patches or more from registered schools, larger companies or charitable organizations you can pay by Purchase Order. Acceptance in to our PO program is necessary before you place your order. Read more about ordering by PO here.

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Will you accept checks or bank wire transfers?

Yes, I can accept a check or a bank wire transfer. Your delivery will be delayed since I'll need to confirm your payment cleared before I proceed with your order. You can use the Magic Quote page to determine your cost. You'll then send an email to me, jen@custompatchesqueen.com to notify me of the payment you are sending. You will then send the payment. When I get the payment I will let you know that your order has started. The normal production time will take place and your patches will be delivered to you.

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Why are online orders discounted 10%?

I discount my online orders 10% to reward you for using my automated system. If you require me to call you, or you want to phone me to take all of your information over the phone there is a 10% surcharge. I have gone to great expense to make the online order system safe, secure and easy. This is so that I can focus on fulfilling orders and helping quickly when problems arise as they sometimes do. Taking an order over the phone is actually less secure then ordering online and costs me more to fulfill. Order online to take advantage of lower prices.

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What is your refund policy?

If you are not completely satisfied, I'll refund 100% of your money back. That is my refund policy. No hassles and no questions asked. Please have a look at my Guarantee here.

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If you don't charge my credit card why do I have to provide it?

I get many requests to create free artwork and free digital proofs. I want to work hard for you so in order to focus on you, I'll want you to place your order using your credit card. My Magic Quote page authorize your purchase which is like reserving a hotel room. I don't get your money since the funds are held on your card. If you don't approve the digital proof I'll send you, the funds are released. If you do approve the digital proof then payment will be captured and the funds will be withdrawn.

Be aware when using a Debit Card. Funds will look like they've been withdrawn immediately. Your funds are not in my bank account. The funds are simply being held like a reservation of a hotel room. If you do not want the funds to appear to have been taken out immediately you should not use a Debit card but use a Credit Card instead when shopping online.

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