Reflective Threads
Stylish Safety for Cyclists and Beyond!
As cycling increases in popularity as both an exercise option and an eco-friendly means of transportation, we aim to seamlessly blend style and safety into the urban scene.
Imagine apparel that not only looks great but prioritizes rider safety, especially in low-light conditions.
A specialized 20-weight machine embroidery thread designed to illuminate brightly in low-light conditions. It’s no ordinary thread; it’s the outcome of state-of-the-art technology. A polyester thread enveloped with a special layer of glass micro-spheres creates a genuinely reflective finish when exposed to light.
Designing with Purpose: Versatility in Reflective Thread
In harnessing the power of EmbroideryStudio Digital Edition, Designing level, our in-house designers elevate the cycling design by using the new Contour Effect. Seamlessly tracing the outlines of any object, this feature creates an open feel, adding a dynamic sense of movement to the wheels. We use advanced features that both re-arrange and hide the travel runs, ensuring a flawless finish when working with low-density designs.
The Contour Effect defines the wheel and evokes a sense of speed. Our designers employed different densities. The Contour Effect on the outer wheel features a 1mm spacing, followed by a 5mm spacing, and finally, the inner part of the wheel incorporates a 3mm spacing. This deliberate spacing variation, coupled with the Contour Effect, creates a captivating illusion of movement. The Contour Effect proves ideal for this cycling design, generating run stitches that precisely follow the object’s borders.
In creating this design, we considered changes in light and weather conditions and used Madeira’s reflective thread qualities to our advantage. This versatile design is not limited to a single application. Here, we’ve chosen a winter jacket, lightweight jacket, or windbreaker that is typically worn over performance wear.
The result?
A masterpiece that not only meets but exceeds our expectations.
Photographer and cyclist
Eduardo Serje @eduserjephotography
Beyond City Cyclists
Reflective Threads for All Explorers
This design, along with other reflective thread designs that enhance visibility, can be embroidered onto any garment type or product, including backpacks. This idea has many applications and can extend beyond city cyclists to the younger generation exploring their local neighbourhoods. Consider youthful designs and embroidery on hoodies and T-shirts, adding style without compromising the joy of outdoor adventures.
Reflective threads may not replace safety wear, but they undoubtedly elevate fashion.
A New Era in Embroidery
Leverage the ease of machine embroidery to add a safety element to sports logos and designs for casual wear – all possible, even with smaller quantities.
Working with reflective thread mirrored the ease of handling Madeira’s standard 40-weight thread. Its smooth texture seamlessly integrates into our design, running flawlessly. The only notable differences were our preference for reduced machine run speed and the need for precision when threading the eye of the needles.
Safety and Style Harmoniously Coexisting
It’s time to step into the future where safety and style harmoniously coexist through the innovative integration of reflective designs, simultaneously enhancing both aesthetics and functionality.
Apparel with enhanced visibility in low light conditions has widespread application across various other markets, catering to runners, fitness enthusiasts, and other specific market segments.
Explore the various possibilities of incorporating reflective threads into your embroidery designs. Where could you incorporate reflective embroidery designs?
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Brought to you by the creative expertise of:
Digitizer: Mai Huynh & Photographer and cyclist: Eduardo Serje @eduserjephotography
Collaboration with Madeira UK using REFLECT-T50 Reflective Machine Embroidery Thread.
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