The Stitch Factory Blog

Why High Visibility Workwear Is A Must For The Motorway Service Workers.

2011-02-02T05:08:00.000-08:00

This article explains why high visibility workwear is a must for the motorway service workers. Here is what you need to take into consideration:

Road workers need to stand out and be visible from other people whenever they are repairing motorway signs or are working on ships. Even those who deal with accidents or work in breakdown recovery services must be easily spotted by other people.

This is because all employees should stay safe whilst working on the highway as there are visual dangers all around them such as being hit by falling stones or vehicles after an accident.

If these employees need high visibility clothing, then it should not be just for working outdoors. Fire marshals will also need to be identified in case of a fire inside a building. There are many other professions that require you to work in the dark, so you should make sure you do not get hit by passing traffic.

There are times when motorway service workers also need to work in the cold and wet weather that is why it is important to be seen when you are patrolling car parks, repairing cars or working as security officer.

So as people work in various different conditions throughout the year, it is important that they wear high visible clothing at all times. But everyone should look for value for money work wear, as you cannot rely on the cheapest clothes that may not provide the highest quality with the features you need.

You should look for durability and performance as well as comfort so that you can actually carry out your day to day working tasks easily, plus you do not want to replace your clothing on a regular basis, so it is essential to choose the best quality workwear from reputable suppliers.

The Ins And Outs Of T-Shirt Printing.

2011-01-23T08:24:00.000-08:00

Screen printing is essentially the act of transferring ink to a desired surface (for example, in t-shirt printing), using a woven mesh to support an ink-blocking stencil. This is done by hand, using a special-purpose block-mount, or by specially designed machines.

Simply put, screen print t-shirts are made by placing a stencil, attached to a fine mesh made from silk, polyester or nylon, across the t-shirt fabric, then rolling ink across the stencil using a roller or squeegee. The ink is forced or pumped through the mesh onto the t-shirt, with the stencil blocking out areas that are meant to be ink-free. Ideally, designs chosen for printed t-shirts are sharp-edged and high-contrast.

In place of a solid stencil, an impermeable substance is sometimes used to mask areas from ink, this is the preferred method of t-shirt printing in the UK for most small-medium scale printers.

Here are instructions on how to screen print t-shirts: first, get your materials - a t-shirt, some cheap paintbrushes, a pencil, newspaper, an embroidery hoop, screen printing ink, a fine mesh fabric such as sheer curtain material, old nylons or tulle, and glue that isn't water soluble. You will also need a computer and printer for your design, or a good hand for drawing.

Stretch the mesh fabric out across the embroidery hoop and secure very tightly. Print out your high-contrast, clean-edged design on paper and trace it (or draw it freehand) in pencil onto your mesh.

Paint glue over all the negative space (blank areas) of your drawing, being careful not to accidentally glue the mesh to your work surface. Make sure you cover all the areas you would not like ink to touch. Allow this to dry, or set it according to your glue's instructions. You have now created your stencil.

Place your t-shirt under the stencil (place newspaper inside the t-shirt to protect the back from 'bleed through'). Stipple the ink onto the areas of your design not covered by glue. Make sure that the ink is forced through the mesh onto the t-shirt, but be careful not to overload it as this may create splotches. Carefully remove the stencil and allow the ink to dry, or set it according to your ink's instructions.

The stencil can be reused to create many more printed t-shirts.

How To Choose The Best School Uniform Supplier?

2011-01-18T05:32:00.000-08:00

Choosing school uniforms can become overwhelming when you consider the number of suppliers that are current active. When you want to know how to choose the best school uniform supplier, it is important that you have spent some time determining what you needs and requirements are.

The quality of the material used to make the uniforms will be very important. There are many suppliers that get their uniforms from a 3rd party and do not have control over the quality of the products they sell. Therefore, when you are considering a supplier, it will be important that you determine their relationship with the manufacturer.

The supplier should have a wide range of options available for a bulk order. Although many schools use a basic khaki or black uniform for all students, many schools are striving to create more diversity and use their school wear to gain visibility and presence in the community. As a marketing tool, school uniforms that are made in the colours of the school will give you an added means to market your school without a great expense in advertising.

The provider that you select should have contact information that gives you the ability to contact a knowledgeable member of the staff when needed. In many cases, a school that orders uniforms in bulk will have a need for additional sizes or items as the school year progresses. It will be important that you are able to get more supplies when you need them and are able to reach a customer service representative who can assist you when needed.

By taking time to learn the details about how to choose the best school uniform supplier, you will be able to develop a long-term relationship with the supplier that will be able to meet all of your needs and requirements on a consistent basis. They will provide high quality products and be able to adjust uniforms to meet your specific needs.

One final tip!

For a school uniform company that will provide a perfect service for all your schoolwear needs, visit The Stitch Factory, who have the complete schoolwear know how.

Is Workwear The New Street Cred Fashion Item?

2011-01-13T14:07:00.000-08:00

We all remember years back when we all got ready for a night out, to which it didn’t matter whether you are male or female, but you went out on the town knowingly that jeans were not permitted in bars and especially night clubs.

‘How the times have changed’

Not only are jeans now a must for a Friday night, but you can also where the latest designer jeans to restaurants, night clubs and bars, in fact it is now so in that if you are wearing something other than a pair of jeans, unless you are a lady with a skirt of dress then you most probably seen to be the odd one out.

I know many people like to wear suits to go out with, but even this has change as the jacket if often kept or is changed for a blazer, but the trousers have now been superseded by jeans.

‘Where is all this leading us’ you may ask?

Well it is all starting to change again, except with a little twist. Those of you who are observant and watch how many of today’s new design brands have shaped their ideas around a particular look, will notice that this look has been around for quite some time, but has steadily morphed into a fashion product itself.

‘Workwear’

Yes ‘Workwear. Workwear in the last couple of years has changed it direction for many of the styles and purposes they were designed for in the beginning. Where not talking about been seen down town with a boiler suit on and a tool belt, though nowadays you would be thought of as entertainment for a ladies hen night possibly dressed like that, but we are talking about trousers again and t-shirts and polo shirts. If you look at many of today’s top workwear brands like Snickers Workwear or Dickies Workwear to name just a few.

One of the reasons why Snickers Workwear have been so successful is not just because they are a high quality workwear product, built to last and withstand the daily roughs and toughs, but also because how they look. The same goes for Dickies Workwear. They are designed to do a particular function or job, but a lot these products, especially the trousers look very much like designer high street branded trousers with their contrasting coloured jean like fabrics, slung baggy looks as well as fitted trim styles, large multi pockets and a large heavy belt to enhance the look.

Now I am not saying that add to these a blazer or a designer white shirt and your ready to take your partner out to the newest restaurant for their birthday, but add a smart t-shirt and I am sure you would pass through most doorways, unless of course your particular pair of work trousers are covered in Bostick and white paint from a job earlier.

I think you get the picture and remember this. In a few years time when this is the norm,

‘I told you so first’.

Discover How To Get Boys School Uniforms At Low Prices

2010-12-14T04:29:00.000-08:00

With the school season back in full swing, you will need to know what kind of boys school uniforms you will need to get for your boys. Make sure that you carefully read your son school manual, because that will have all of the guidelines you will need to abide by as far as colour and the way the clothes are to be worn.

Most schools require children to wear polo shirts that are certain colours, which are shirts with collars. These can be found at any designer store. You may want to also check and see if the school has polo shirts for sale that has their emblem. Some schools require that their students wear shirts with their school logo.

The pants and shorts that the children wear depend on their rules and guidelines. Normally, you will want to get pleated pants that are black, navy blue, or khaki. Shorts are generally the same, pleated and in those colours. Sometimes schools do not require pleats, but that is why you need to check the handbook. Having a wide variety of colours will allow your kids to still have a little bit of individuality.

The sportswear at most schools is usually included. The children, if not supplied with a uniform, will more than likely need to wear something comfortable, like cargo shorts and a regular t-shirt. This will be another reason to check your son's school handbook.

Uniforms are important to wear because it helps to eliminate bullying and it teaches children to focus more on schoolwork and less on fashion. When it comes to a boy’s school wear, you should always refer to the schools handbook to answer any questions you may be unsure of. It is important that you pick out the right clothing, because if you do not, your kids may get reprimanded by the schools administration.

Bella BE033 Womens Long Sleeve Crew Neck Tee T-Shirt

2010-10-10T13:30:00.000-07:00

Bella Clothing - Bella BE033 Womens Long Sleeve Crew Neck Tee T-Shirt is manufactured from 100% Pre-Shrunk Cotton; 30 single combed ringspun super soft 1x1 baby rib knit, with a total fabric weight of 195g. This womens long sleeved t-shirt is a great addition to the great womens leisurewear Bella collection. This rib knitted t-shirt has capped sleeves, contoured and shaped to fit the body and is super soft to give added comfort. With a choice of seven colours to choose from you are going to find the right style combination for your needs, no matter what how warm or cool the temperatures maybe. Sizes start from a size small, UK 8 up to a size XL, UK size 16.

Bella BE032 Womens Short Sleeve Crew Neck Tee T-Shirtb

2010-10-10T13:26:00.000-07:00

Bella Clothing - Bella BE032 Womens Short Sleeve Crew Neck Tee T-Shirt is manufactured from 100% Pre-Shrunk Cotton; 30 single combed ringspun super soft 1x1 baby rib knit, with a total fabric weight of 195g. This womens t-shirt is part of the great Bella classic collection. This rib knitted t-shirt has capped sleeves, contoured and shaped to fit the body and is super soft to give added comfort. With a choice of twenty five colours to choose from you are going to find the right style combination for your needs. Sizes start from a size small, UK 8 up to a size XL, UK size 16 making this also a perect selection as part of a womens leisurewear collection.

Bella BE031 Womens 2x1 Rib Tank Top

2010-10-10T13:22:00.000-07:00

Bella Clothing - Bella BE031 Womens 2x1 Rib Tank Top is a very versatile piece of of womens leisurewear clothing that is manufactured from using 100% Pre-shrunk Cotton, which is super soft and fits the shape of the female body with style and comfort. The fabric weight of this cotton tank top is 195g. The versatility of womens tank top is that it can be worn as the main top garment, layered with others and even worn as a top to wear to bed. With a choice of eleven colours to choose from and sizes starting from a size small, UK 8 up to a size XL, UK size 16, you are sure to find the right combination to meet your needs.

Bella BE030 Womens Short Sleeved Scoop Neck Tee T-Shirt

2010-10-10T13:15:00.000-07:00

Bella Clothing - Bella BE030 Womens Short Sleeved Scoop Neck Tee T-Shirt is a great piece of womens leisurewear and is manufactured from Pre Shrunk 100% Cotton. 30 single combed ringspun super soft baby rib knit. The fabric weight is 195g. The great design of this womens scoop neck tee t-shirt is taken from the extremely popular Bella baby ribbed shirt sleeved crew neck tee t-shirt with the change of the neck style. This womens scoop neck tee t-shirt can be worn as a casual top as well as part of a corporate or work suiting outfit. With a choice of six colours, the sizes range from a size small, a UK 8 up to a size XL, UK 16.

Snickers Workwear Trousers : 3211 CoolTwill Workwear Trousers

2010-07-24T04:48:00.000-07:00

Workwear - When it comes to workwear trousers, then many tops brands stand out to which one of the biggest brands is Snickers Workwear.

Snickers Workwear has and continues to produce high quality durable workwear which includes workwear trousers.

One of the ranges from Snickers Workwear trouser ranges is the 322 CoolTwill Workwear Trousers which are manufactured from the amazing fabric of CoolTwill.

The many features of these workwear trousers are the advanced cut with Twisted Leg design. Cordura technology is used to give extra reinforcements for durability and the tool fasteners are Velcro for quick and easy release as well as a number of pockets which includes two holster pockets and a handy mobile pocket which has its compartment at an angle for easier access. The knees are also well protected with the facility to add knee pads via the knee pad pockets, which will help anyone when bending down onto hard or uneven surfaces. A ruler pocket is also catered for.

The fabric is a fabric mix of 65% Polyester and 35% Cotton with a total fabric weight of 195g and featuring 100% Cordura Polyamide reinforcements.

Dickies Workwear at The Stitch Factory.

2010-07-02T08:35:00.000-07:00

Dickies Workwear is a name that is synonymous with quality, quality, quality.
Founded over 80 years ago, Dickies Workwear have been the first and last point of call for high quality workwear that is designed to meet the needs of every worker, whether out working in the middle of an oil field in the far east or installing a conservatory here in Sheffield, Dickies Workwear have it covered.
The great range of workwear clothing is as follows.
Dickies Workwear : Redhawk

The Dickies Workwear Redhawk Collection covers three areas of clothing, Trousers, Jackets and Coveralls.

Dickies Redhawk Trousers.

The Redhawk Trousers section, which also includes the WD834 Mens Cargo Shorts, also has the WD854 Redhawk Ladies Trousers. The other Redhawk trousers for men are the WD884 Redhawk Mens Super Trousers, WD814 Redhawk Mens Action Trousers and the WD864 Redhawk Mens Work Trousers.

Dickies Redhawk Jackets.

The Redhawk Jackets section which is made up of three options is the WD201 Redhawk Food Industry Style Warehouse Coat, WD200 Redhawk Warehouse Coat and the WD954 Redhawk Jacket.

Dickies Redhawk Coveralls.

The seven Redhawk Coveralls are the WD4839 Redhawk Zip Front Coverall, WD4829 Redhawk Stud Front Coverall, WD4819 Economy Coverall, WD4859 Redhawk Drill Coverall, WD4839J Redhawk Junior Coverall, WD4839W Redhawk Ladies Coverall, WD600 Redhawk Bib and Brace and a WD250 Redhawk Ladies Tabard.

Dickies Workwear : Chef’s Workwear

The Dickies Chef’s Wear Collection consists of two aprons, WD1300 Butchers Apron and the WD1325 Waist Apron.

Dickies Workwear : Grafter

The Dickies Grafter Collection is made up of five products starting with the WD4910 Dickies Grafter Duo Tone Jacket, WD4930 Dickies Grafter Duo Tone Trousers, WD4999 Dickies Grafter Tool Pocket 2 pack, WD50100 Dickies Grafter Jacket and the WD8900 Dickies Grafter Jumper.

Welcome to 'The Stitch Factory'.

2010-06-03T02:00:00.000-07:00

The Stitch Factory is an appropriate name for a company that amongst other things stitches or embroiders clothing.

'TSF' which itself is a long established workwear, corporatewear, and all round uniform supplier to schools, councils, banks and other financial sectors, hotel chains as well as the smaller privately owned hotels, leisure and sports centres, in fact, the sectors that The Stitch Factory supply is numerous and endless, but one thing you can be sure of is the service provided is second to nobody.

If however you require your clothing or other items like bags or baseball caps to be embroidered or printed, then this is where TSF full in-house service comes to light. Many companies advertise the fact that they provide an in-house service, but the majority of these companies and I mean a large majority do not have the means themselves of providing embroidered clothing or screen printed clothing like t-shirts. The down side to this from the customers point of view is that other companies cannot fully guarantee a system that is 100%, especially from the quality control side. The cost of the actual decoration process will also be generally higher due to the middle man costs as they will be they bit on top of whatever they are charged, and a final factor is the time factor. The middle man will be relying on the contractor to have a vacant position to fit their work in around everybody else's., so if your on a tight deadline or need something turning around quickly then you are likely to struggle. This is one of the many reasons The Stitch Factory is so successful is because they have the in-house embroidery machines, in-house screen printing machines and the rest to provide a complete one stop solution.

So remember that if you are a company of any size, charity or any other organisation then contact The Stitch Factory and speak to Chris Bentley who is the MD, who will actually speak to customer and answer questions you may have.

A full range of the products TSF supply are been updated on the newly refreshed website, which when complete will have some 2500+ work wear, corporatewear, school wear and sports and leisure products to view and purchase online. Visit TSF at www.stitchfactory.co.uk.