Custom embroidery is perfect when you have an idea that does not fit neatly into an online order form. At Clever Orchid, we specialize in project-based work where the design, placement, and garment all matter. This might be a special jacket with a meaningful quote, a limited run of hats for an event, or a set of blankets for a new baby in the family.
During your appointment, Shirly will look at your item, listen to the story behind it, and help translate that into an embroidery plan. Together, you will choose fonts, thread colors, and placement. If you already have a logo or artwork, we will discuss how it needs to be digitized so it stitches cleanly on the fabric you have in mind.
For businesses and organizations, our custom embroidery services extend to uniforms, branded apparel, and recurring orders. Once we have your logo and thread colors dialed in, we keep that information on file so it is easy to add new employees, refresh worn garments, or create special items for events and client gifts.
Because each project is unique, pricing is based on factors like stitch count, design complexity, fabric type, and quantity. We are always upfront about cost before we proceed so there are no surprises. For complex or high-value items, we may recommend a small test stitch-out on a similar fabric to confirm the look.
If you have been holding onto an idea for a while and you are not sure how to execute it, bring it to Clever Orchid. We will walk through the options with you and give honest recommendations about what will look best and last the longest.
Core Embroidery
Custom Embroidery Services in Columbia, SC
Project-based custom embroidery for unique pieces, small batches, and recurring business orders — designed and stitched in-house with the owner.
Project-based, not assembly-line
Each piece is treated as its own project — design, fabric, placement, and finish are all considered together so the result feels intentional.
Sit-down design consult
You meet with Shirly in person to choose fonts, threads, and layouts. No back-and-forth with a faceless online order form.
Logos kept on file
For businesses and recurring orders, we keep your logo, thread colors, and notes on file so reorders are simple and consistent.
Honest, upfront pricing
Pricing is based on stitch count, complexity, fabric, and quantity — and we always confirm cost before stitching anything.
What we embroider
- One-of-a-kind gift projects and heirloom pieces
- Small-batch event apparel (10–50 units)
- Branded polos, jackets, and uniforms
- Custom hats, caps, and trucker hats
- Logo placement on bags, blankets, and aprons
- Sentimental items with quotes or names
- Wedding party gifts and bridal robes
- Graduation stoles and team apparel
- Specialty fabrics: leather, cashmere, satin, fur linings
- Recurring uniform programs for local businesses
How an appointment works
- 1
Tell us about the project
Send a quick description with photos, the deadline, and a rough quantity. We'll reply with availability and book a time to talk in person.
- 2
Design consult with Shirly
We review your item or blank, choose fonts and threads, talk through placement and stitch options, and confirm pricing and timing.
- 3
Stitch, review, and pickup
Your project is hooped and stitched on commercial machines in our studio. For complex designs we may run a test stitch-out first, then deliver or arrange pickup.
Pricing & turnaround
Custom projects are priced by stitch count, design complexity, fabric, and quantity, so a single monogrammed gift looks very different from a 25-piece uniform run. We always quote before we sew. Typical timing is 1–2 weeks for custom work; rush options are sometimes available depending on our schedule.
Frequently asked questions
What counts as a custom embroidery project?
Anything that doesn't fit a stock catalog item. That includes one-off gifts with unique placements, small-batch event runs, logo digitizing for a new brand, recurring uniform programs, and special heirloom pieces. If you have an idea, bring it — we'll tell you whether it's a fit.
Do I need to provide a finished logo or artwork?
Not necessarily. If you already have clean artwork, we'll discuss how it should be digitized for thread. If you only have an idea or a rough sketch, Shirly can help you build a layout and choose fonts during the appointment.
What's the minimum order size?
There is no strict minimum — we do single-item gifts as well as small-batch and recurring orders. Larger quantities reduce per-piece cost because setup is amortized across more units.
How long does a custom project take?
Most custom projects run 1–2 weeks from approved design to finished piece. Simple name or monogram work can finish faster; complex multi-color logo runs and uniform programs may take longer. Share your deadline up front and we'll be straight with you about what's realistic.
Do you keep my logo on file for reorders?
Yes. Once a design is digitized and approved, we save the stitch file and notes so future reorders, new staff, or seasonal items can be added without starting over.
Can you embroider items I bring in?
Yes — most projects use a mix of customer-supplied items and blanks we source from our wholesale partners. We'll evaluate any item to make sure it can be safely embroidered before scheduling.
Related services
Embroidery Service
Full-service custom embroidery for garments, gifts, uniforms and specialty items, stitched in-house on commercial machines.
Custom Embroidery Design
Digitizing and design services that turn artwork, logos, and ideas into clean, stitch-ready embroidery files.
Monogram
Classic monogramming for linens, apparel, and gifts with carefully chosen fonts and thread colors.
Commercial Embroidery
In-house commercial embroidery for small to mid-sized orders, ideal for local businesses and organizations.
Corporate Apparel
Embroidered polos, button-downs, jackets, and more to create a cohesive, professional look for your team.
Custom Patch Embroidery
Embroidered patches designed and produced to be sewn onto garments, hats, and gear.
Ready to start your embroidery project?
Call or text (803) 205-0844 or request an appointment online. Shirly will follow up to confirm details, pricing, and timing.