Monogramming FAQs

Whether you're new to monogramming or have loved it your whole life, you may have a question about how we offer monogramming at Initially London.  

Here's a list of the questions we're asked most frequently, along with a brief answer to each one.  If you'd like to know more, please don't hesitate to call us in the studio on 0800 156 0878 or email us on hello@initiallylondon.com.  We'd be delighted to help address any concerns or help you design the perfect monogrammed gift.

General Questions

1. What is monogramming?

Monogramming is the art of personalising items by embroidering, embossing, or engraving initials, names or graphic designs onto fabric, leather, wood, acrylic and other materials. At Initially London, we specialise in monogramming of all kinds, and offer a curated range of monogrammed accessories, home linens, and gifts, as well as a monogramming service for your own goods.

2. What types of monogramming do you offer?

We offer:

• Embroidery: Our exceptionally talented embroidery artisans offer embroidered monograms in a huge range of font styles and thread colours.  If we can get a needle through it, we will embroider a monogram on it.

- Laser-Etching:  Our laser team monogram a wide range of materials including wood, cork, acrylic, leather, coated stainless steel and glass.  

• Foil Embossing:  Initials, names and even logos are heat-pressed onto leather or faux leather accessories either with foil, which is available in gold, silver or copper, or blind (no foil).

3. What items can be monogrammed?

We offer a wide range of products on our website and in our London showroom, all of which have monogramming included in the price.  We also offer a monogramming service whereby you can bring us your own goods to be monogrammed.  The most popular items for monogramming include:

• Tote bags and pouches
• Travel bags and holdalls
• Linen napkins, placemats and kitchen linens
• Towels, robes, and home linens
• Baby gifts and accessories
• Home goods such as cushions, picnic rugs, cheese boards
• Corporate and wedding gifts

4. How long does monogramming take?

Our standard turnaround time is 5-7 working days, but we hate to disappoint so we always try to meet your deadline if we can.  If you've got a short deadline, please just let us know in Special Instructions at checkout so our monogramming team can prioritise it.  If you would like expedited shipping to ensure no postal delays, we urge you to upgrade to Express Shipping.

5. How many letters can I include in a monogram?

All our monogram shape designs allow for 1, 2 or 3 initials, but our letter fonts allow you to use up to 32 characters.  This allows you to create a design with a full name or other text.  There are some products, particularly those that we personalise with foil embossing, that have space limitations but we will always advise on the best fit if we think your design needs tweaking.

6. What fonts and monogram styles do you offer?

Our font styles are divided in to two types:  lettering and monogram shapes.  We have a wide selection of each type, including classic script, modern block and decorative styles. You can browse our options on our website  by clicking the Design Your Monogram button on any product.  Or feel free contact us for recommendations on the best monogramming style for the gift you are purchasing. 

7. What thread colours and foil options are available?

For embroidery, we offer a vast range of thread colours to complement your item, but we have a curated selection of the most popular colours on our website. We can match the thread colour to most Pantone or other colour references if required. Our foil embossing options include gold, silver and rose gold.  In addition blind embossing, for a more subtle effect, is also available. 

8. Can I use my own logo or custom design?

Yes! We can digitise logos or custom designs for embroidery and embossing. There may be a one-time digitisation fee depending on the complexity of the design.  Pricing for the embroidery itself will depend on the size and complexity of the design. 

Placement & Sizing

9. Where will my monogram be placed?

Placement depends on the item, but common locations include:

• Centre or corner of towels and linens
• Flap or front panel of bags 
• Sleeve, pocket or front chest area, or across the back of clothing
• Cover or inside of leather notebooks

10. What size will the monogram be?

Sizes vary based on the item, but most embroidery monograms are 1-3 inches. We recommend the best sizing for the product you purchase (or bring us for monogramming).  But if you prefer, you can decide for yourself exactly what size you want the design.

Foil embossing typefaces are smaller, ranging from 0.5cm to 0.9cm letter heights.  We offer four font styles and there is not the flexibility to change the size of the letters because there are Individual brass dies for each letter for each font, much like old fashioned book printing.  

For laser-etching, any computer typeface or image can be etched.  The only constraints on sizing are the item to be etched. 

Care & Durability

11. Will my monogram last over time?

Yes! Our embroidery is stitched to last through regular washing and ironing.  Our embroidery threads are colour-fast and will not run or fade.

Laser-etched monograms are permanent and will not peel or fade. 

Our embossed monograms are deeply pressed, with heat, into leather for durability.  The foil may wear away over time with heavy use, but the imprinted design will remain. 

12. How should I care for my monogrammed items?

Each product has its own care instructions, explained on the product description on our website.  However in general:

• Embroidered items: Wash inside out on a gentle cycle and avoid harsh detergents.
• Laser-etched products:  Wipe clean with a damp cloth. 
• Embossed leather items: Wipe clean with a dry cloth and use leather conditioner to maintain softness. 

Ordering & Pricing

13. How much does monogramming cost?

• Embroidery: Starts at £15 for the smallest designs.  Embroidery is priced by stitch count so larger designs have a higher price.  There is an additional set-up fee for larger designs or custom logos.
  
• Laser-Etching - Approximately £20 for a single item, with discounts for additional items
• Foil Embossing: Starts at £15 for small initials
• Trade & Bulk Discounts: Available for corporate, wedding, and large orders. Contact us for a quote.

14. Can I return or exchange monogrammed items? 

Since each item is personalised, we cannot accept returns unless there is a mistake on our part. Please double-check your monogram details before placing your order. 

15. Do you offer gift wrapping?

Yes! We offer reusable drawstring gift bags that are 100% cotton, unbranded and lovely for re-use not just as a gift bag. They are perfect for shoe storage, laundry bags and more.  

For more FAQs, check out the Frequently Asked Questions tab our website:  https://www.initiallylondon.com/pages/faqs