Basics for Training Embroidery Operators: Part 2 of 2

Now that we’ve identified the groundwork that needs to be laid, let’s identify some ways in which you should get started with implementing your training regimen for embroidery operators. You’ll also find a list of training curriculum for your embroidery operator — and supervisor — trainees to ensure they thoroughly understand the core concepts of their disciplines and responsibilities.

Starting Your Training Program
Any embroidery training program should feature a defined curriculum and schedule. Start trainees with simple tasks, like changing thread for a new job. Next, progress to teaching tension basics and identifying good embroidery from poor embroidery. Collect embroidery that has outlines that are off-register, jagged column stitches or other symptoms so you can readily point these out to a trainee.

It also is a good idea to make a short video of operations in your shop that your trainee can take home. This serves a dual purpose; the trainee will learn from it and he can show his family about his interesting new job.

Listed below are the minimum elements that should be included in a training program for operators, as well as for supervisors. Start collecting information, samples, magazine articles or other materials related to each of the listed topics listed. Establish procedures for specific needs, such as how would you like for an operator to handle “Review of Job Details” when there is a question on an order.

Use this list as a guide, and attach a time frame and sequence that makes sense for your shop. At the end of your trial period, use it as a checklist to review the trainee's understanding of each aspect. If this is implemented correctly, you will be pleased with the well-rounded and knowledgeable operator that you trained.

Minimum Training Curriculum for Computerized Embroidery Machine Operators
• Understanding of placement standards
• Understanding of how to apply your shop’s standard embroidery placement, such as left-chest or full back.
• Selecting suitable techniques for marking garments
• Reviewing job details 
• Reading orders for completeness: thread colors, design, placement, etc.
• Asking for verification in the case of questionable spelling
• Inspection of garments
• Counting of garments
• Checking for correct garments
• Checking for defects before applying embroidery
• Selecting the appropriate hoop for the job
• Exceptions to the rule, such as keeping bulky seams out of the hoop area
• Hooping various fabric types
• When alternate holding methods are needed
• Avoiding damage to fabric from hooping
• Matching stabilizer to fabrics
• Doing a test sew-out on similar fabric for a first article of clothing
• Evaluating for proper support
• Evaluating when a topping is needed
• Determining when it is necessary to mark garments for placement
• Deciding proper marking technique for each fabric type
• Applying proper marking

Your embroidery operator trainee should get an explanation for each of the following items and be able to perform after suitable training time:

Thread Handling
1. Setting up thread for standard jobs
2. (Multihead) Setting up threads for small quantities or mixed-color orders
3. Tying of knot to pull through needle for thread changeover
4. Tying of knot for thread storage
5. Purpose of each component in the thread path (pre-tensioners, tensioners, etc.)
6. How a stitch is formed
7. How thread break detector/bobbin sensors work
8. Handling of metallics, polyesters and other specialty threads

Thread Tensions
1. Tension testing procedures (top and bottom)
2. Troubleshooting tension problems
3. Understanding how to apply logic to balance tensions
4. Adjusting and cleaning the bobbin case
5. Adjusting the upper tensioners

Needles
1. Matching the proper needle to goods
2. How and when to change needles
3. Identifying sewing symptoms that are needle-related

Troubleshooting and Machine Management
1. When and when not to back up the machine
2. Identifying causes of thread breaks
3. Lubricating of the machine — when, where, how and with what
4. Sewing speeds for various jobs and stitch types

Specialty Techniques
1. Producing high-quality embroidery on finished caps
2. Producing appliqué products (if applicable)

Minimum Training Curriculum for Supervisors (Multiple Machine Shops)
• Pre-Production
• Scheduling principles
• Matching job specifics for efficient consecutive job sequence
• Assigning priorities according to promise date
• Procedures for ordering digitized designs

Production
1. Sensible, orderly workflow through the shop
2. Monitoring of supplies and accessories
3. Matching operators to jobs and machines
4. Tracking of production and maintaining a log
5. Account daily or weekly losses and cost of non-conformity

Equipment
1. Maintenance oversight, including keeping a maintenance log for each machine

Training
1. Selecting and organizing recommended reference material for operator trainees
2. Evaluating trainees’ progress
3. Identifying under-skilled operators and providing assistance

Deborah Jones is a commercial and home embroiderer with more than 30 years experience in the computerized embroidery field. She runs MyEmbroideryMentor.com and regularly speaks at Imprinted Sportswear Shows (ISS). For more information or to comment on this article, e-mail Deborah at djones@myembroiderymentor.com.