Freelance Apparel Digitizer (Embroidery & Print)

**Swain Apparel Group** is a reputable apparel manufacturer specializing in high-quality custom garments for diverse markets, including collegiate, athletic, and corporate sectors. We are committed to excellence in craftsmanship, precision, and customer satisfaction. As part of our ongoing efforts to optimize our production workflows, we are seeking an experienced and skilled digitizer to support our embroidery and print operations.

We are looking for a highly skilled and detail-oriented **Digitizer** with a proven track record in creating accurate, high-quality embroidery files. The ideal candidate will possess specialized knowledge in designing collegiate appliqué and lettering, with an understanding of layout design, fabric considerations, and stitch techniques. The primary focus will be on producing precise visual proofs for customer approval and the corresponding production files necessary for embroidery machines.

This role requires a professional who can interpret artwork accurately, translate designs into stitch instructions, and deliver visually representative proofs that facilitate client approval. The successful candidate will work independently, ensuring high standards of quality and adherence to project timelines, ultimately enabling us to streamline our digitizing process and improve customer satisfaction.

**Key Responsibilities: **

* Convert artwork (logos, graphics, text, collegiate appliqué, lettering) into stitch-by-stitch instructions for embroidery using specialized software (e.g., Wilcom, Hatch, Pulse, Tajima DG).
* Create accurate visual proofs or layouts for customer approval, reflecting how the final design will appear on the garment.
* Develop digital files embroidery machines, ensuring they are optimized for production.
* Generate vector files for print or cutting processes.
* Ensure all digitized files and proofs are of high quality, with correct stitch density, stitch types, thread colors, and registration.
* Collaborate with the team to understand project specifications, such as collegiate applique and lettering designs, to minimize revisions.
* Provide clear communication and timely delivery of proofs and production files.
* Make revisions based on customer feedback and ensure designs are production-ready.
* Maintain consistency and accuracy across multiple projects to prevent errors

**Qualifications: **

* Proven experience in embroidery digitizing, particularly with collegiate applique and lettering.
* Strong understanding of layout design, especially for appliqué and lettering styles.
* Experience working with designs similar to black collegiate applique or lettering that requires familiarity with specific layout techniques.
* Prior knowledge of design elements like layouts and construction reduces the learning curve significantly, which is highly preferred.
* Proficiency with industry-standard software (Wilcom, Hatch, Pulse, Tajima DG, Brother PE-Design, etc.).
* Experience producing visual proofs that accurately represent the final product.
* Ability to generate and deliver production files suitable for embroidery machines.
* Attention to detail to ensure quality and accuracy.
* Reliable internet connection and ability to work independently on deadlines.