At the IDEA Lab, patrons are the designers, and the IDEA Lab Maker Studio staff are the implementers.

Essentially, you design it > you submit it > we embroider it

● Create or find desired design: the larger and higher-quality the file, the better quality embroidery file we can create! More information

● Determine what colors you wish to use for each color in the image: you can choose to "re-color" any portion you wish, or keep the original color scheme. We will do our best to match your desired color palette to our range of available thread colors.

● Decide your desired shape, size, and level of finishing for your patch. Details about the available options will

● Approve proof of embroidery design once processed by IDEA Lab staff in embroidery software before the design is stitched.

● Import .image file into embroidery file software. The software we use at the IDEA Lab is called Hatch Embroidery.

● Convert image file into embroidery file. Our software allows us to convert a flat image into a series of instructions that the embroidery machine can understand and use to plot out its stitch path.

● Troubleshoot, reformat and edit embroidery file to reflect patron's requests.

● Input embroidery file to machine, prepare fabric and thread and stitch design.

● Perform desired level of finishing work to meet patron's preferences. This may include stitching a solid border around the design or leaving raw edges for further patron finishing.

The figure above details the entire embroidery process. After designing or sourcing your desired image, submit it to the machine embroidery request form. The IDEA Lab will respond by email within 5 business days with a screenshot of the design converted to embroidery* and a cost confirmation for your project. Once confirmation is received, the lab will finalize and stitch your design**. Once the embroidery is completed, you will receive an email from the IDEA Lab informing you of your project's completed status. Finally, you may pick up your project from our front desk, located in the basement of Grainger Library. Please, bring your I-Card for verification.

*Patrons must approve project cost and embroidery file before stitching begins. If there is an issue, an IDEA Lab staff member will send an email. Depending on the issue, staff will request modifications or suggestions for the design submitted.

**Issues may arise during stitching. Trial and error of servicing the embroidery machine or in addressing concerns with the patron will affect time. The IDEA Lab cannot guarantee a deadline for any patron-submitted project.