How to design a personalised hoodie

Get the measurements right

The easiest way to describe a fit you like is to measure a hoodie you already own. Lay it flat, smooth it out and measure across the chest from armpit to armpit, the length from the shoulder seam to the hem, and the sleeve from the shoulder seam to the cuff. Note anything you would change, such as a little more length or a narrower cuff.

If you would rather work from your body, our size guide shows where to measure. Either way, say which you have sent, body or garment, because the numbers mean different things. We check them with you before anything is cut.

Choose what to embroider

Short, simple lettering suits a hoodie best, because knit fabric stretches as you move. Ideas that tend to work well:

• A first name across the chest, in capitals or a script style.
• Initials on the left chest or a cuff, small and neat.
• A short word that means something to you, across the back.
• A date on a sleeve, for a birthday, a wedding or a move.
• A small motif, such as a flower or a star, beside the lettering.

Decide where it goes and how big

Placement changes the whole look. A small name on the left chest feels quiet and grown up; the same name across the back is bolder. Initials on a cuff are a detail only you might notice. The hood is a good spot for one short word, but avoid the edge, where it folds.

Keep embroidery clear of seams and the pocket edge, and think about scale. Very small lettering loses detail on thick fabric, and very large designs can feel stiff. Tell us roughly how big you want it, in centimetres or inches, and we suggest a size that will stay readable. Our page on embroidered hoodies shows the usual spots.

Pick the colours together

Choose the hoodie colour and the thread colour as a pair. Tone on tone, such as navy thread on a grey hoodie, looks subtle. A contrast, such as white on black or gold on burgundy, stands out more. Our guide to matching or contrast thread walks through the choice in more detail.

If you want an exact shade, send a photo of something in that colour. Screens show colours differently, so we confirm the closest match in your quote rather than promising an exact one.

What to send with your request

When you ask for a quote, include:

• The exact spelling of any name or word, and the style of lettering.
• The placement and the approximate size of the embroidery.
• The hoodie colour and the thread colour, with photos if you have them.
• Your measurements, or those of a hoodie that fits you well.
• Where you live, for example the UK, so delivery is included in the quote.

Then ask for your quote

Once you have these, send your request with any photos. We reply with one written quote covering the hoodie, the embroidery, delivery and the making time, and nothing is made until you have approved it and paid.