30th Anniversary Special


My immersion into the world of embroidery started in the ‘80s – before many of those reading this article were even born!


A multi-head industrial machine


The innovative Coloreel system launched recently, reverts to the use of a single needle but dyes and colours one single thread, supplied by Madeira, to create a coloured design without thread changes.


Inspiration and the desire for further development resulted in Madeira’s introduction of viscose embroidery thread ‘Madeira 40’ in the ‘70s, now known as CLASSIC 40, closely followed by polyester ‘Neon’, now Polyneon, both later evolving to include a selection of thicknesses, plus a wide range of metallic and wool threads. Along the way, Madeira developed fl ame retardant and fi re-resistant threads, threads with a ceramic core, which gives a perfect true velvet matt effect, and high conductive thread for specialist applications. Designers, fabrics, and technology lead the demand for more unusual creations and the highly skilled workforce, often with years of sewing machine experience used all thread varieties, often mixing weights and textures in one design, something we are seeing more of again.


Machine speeds have increased, laundering, dyestuffs and processes change, and chemical restrictions become more critical yet Madeira’s investment in the latest technology and machinery ensures the threads always perform to the highest level.


Madeira was recently recognised for its sustainability commitments


A dyehouse www.printwearandpromotion.co.uk


I’ve been part of the industry embroidery community for a huge part of my life. I was there when Madeira UK exhibited at the first ever Printwear & Promotion show to include embroidery in the ‘90s and at every single one since.


– Karen Burrows, MD Madeira UK


Sustainability


Today, sustainability is high on everyone’s radar. For Madeira it’s always been in our consciousness, since our HQ and factory is in Freiburg, Germany, a naturally green location due to the strict ecological and environmental codes in the Black Forest area. Madeira’s innate sense and actions towards sustainability ensure required standards are exceeded. The recent introduction of SENSA Green and POLYNEON Green offer even more sustainable options. Recognition of Madeira’s commitment came at the recent PCIAW dinner, when the company achieved the highest-level Sustainability Award.


Madeira UK’s stand at Printwear & Promotion 1998


We have seen garment and textile production virtually disappear from the UK, been through the recession from 2008 to 2013 and now the COVID-19 pandemic and lockdowns. Some embroiderers continued their business to meet demand for NHS and other key worker uniforms, masks, and other PPE items and hence Madeira remained open to support the critical supply chain.


While embroidery is critical for the above, for branding, for fashion, for corporate identity and so much more, industrial embroidery is maybe not understood by the general public. Even though I’ve been part of the industrial embroidery industry for many years, my Mum though still thinks I go to work and sit on a rocking chair doing hand embroidery. When I told her I’d been to a spinning class she thought I was actually making thread!


Industrial embroidery is fascinating and enterprising, and I’m delighted it continues to thrive and develop. I would like to thank Dominic Bunce of David Sharp Designs and Andy Anderson at Abstitch for sharing their memories also.


January 2022 | 27 |


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