🧵 Finding the Perfect Blank: Where to Buy Quality Tote Bags & Sweatshirts for Machine Embroidery

When you fall in love with embroidery, it’s not just about the thread or design — it’s about what you’re stitching on. Whether you’re building a stockpile of tote bags or cozy sweatshirts, the right base fabric can make or break your finished project. But where do you actually find blanks that are durable, embroidery-friendly, and worth the price? Let’s dive into what makers and pros are saying. 🌟

💡 The Hunt for the Perfect Blank

It’s surprisingly hard to find a reliable supplier for high-quality totes and sweatshirts. Makers want something that holds up under the needle — not a thin fabric that puckers or stretches when stitched.

One embroiderer summed it up perfectly:

“Finding a good source has been dumb hard. I just want something I can rely on every time!” 🧵

✨ Expert-Approved Suppliers

💬 “Ascolour has been a new obsession for us. A bit pricey but worth every penny. If you’re just wanting to make cheap crap, use a Gildan 18000.”
— Experienced shop owner

✅ Ascolour — known for its premium feel and embroidery-ready fabrics. Great if you value longevity over cost.
💰 Gildan 18000 — more affordable, but the difference in stitch quality and fabric weight is noticeable.

🏭 Wholesale Favorites

Many embroidery pros in the U.S. recommend these top suppliers:

• SanMar — popular for hoodies and totes, but requires a business license.

• S&S Activewear (formerly Alphabroder) — merged with Alphabroder in mid-2024, offering a wide selection under one roof.

• District Brand — their sweatshirts are praised for solid fabric weight and stable embroidery hold.

🧷 Pro Tip: Always order a few samples first. Even top suppliers vary in weight, weave, and softness between models.

🧵 Quote from the Community

💬 “SanMar, SSActivewear, and Alphabroder — in that order. Most of the time, you get what you pay for.”
— Embroidery instructor & small-batch seller

💬 “I used to order from Alphabroder a lot since they had products Sanmar didn’t. After the merger, the variety (like varsity jackets) went down.”
— Long-time embroidery wholesaler

🛍️ Surprising Budget Option: Walmart

Not all good blanks have to come from wholesalers!

💬 “I’ve used the Walmart ones and they’ve held up well! Thick and sturdy without being bulky, and didn’t stretch with embroidery.”
— Hobby embroiderer review

🧵 However, the soft Bella + Canvas blanks — while incredibly comfortable — can stretch during embroidery, making them tricky for beginners.

🎯 Final Thoughts

When choosing tote bags or sweatshirts for embroidery:
✅ Prioritize fabric weight and stitch stability over low price.
✅ Order samples before committing to a bulk buy.
✅ Check for fabric stretch — soft doesn’t always mean stable.

💬 “Most of the time, you get what you pay for — good embroidery starts with good fabric.”
— Community consensus

🌟 Quick Summary