Stitching it All Together
In a Completely Different Route
Words by Marissa Merkt Photos by Shelby Bella
The average person makes 35,000 decisions each day. Each choice can carry consequences that leave lasting impressions for a lifetime: good and bad. Though at the time, Scott Fondren’s decision to entertain with his band instead of show up for his early morning interview with Jack Brown Cleaners seemed reckless. He would later find out just how taking the job at an embroidery shop would instead change the trajectory of his life forever.
From 1993 to 2003, Scott set his groove in the embroidery business, starting by threading machines and eventually taking on more responsibilities. Once he began enjoying the management role he had moved into, Scott decided to open his own embroidery shop with a small amount of money that his parents had saved for his college tuition. Thus, in July 2004, A-List Embroidery was born.
A-List Embroidery now employs over 20 lively humans and 7 gigantic machines. In a typical day, the mighty task force completes between 40 to 50 jobs, specializing in everything from personalized snap-backs, tote bags, and T-shirts. They even mass produce items with company logos for clients such as Austin Energy and William Murray Golf Apparel to name a few.
The company prides themselves on their stickler quality, turn around time, and affordable prices. Their slogan is “You reap what we sew.”
“Our end goal is for the embroidery to be the highest quality possible and for the final product to be a garment that people can be proud of wearing in public,” General Administrator Chris Obal shares.
Chris credits their flowing business to their clients. “This business was built on word of mouth referrals. So with each job, all customer experiences, and every piece we produce, they serve as a reflection of our high standards and commitment to keeping our customers happy.”
Since early 2000, A-List Embroidery has expanded from a tiny one unit office space to four additional units on South 183. Scott says he dreams of one day owning his own building to create a scene for like-minded entrepreneurs.
Scott chose East Austin because of its proximity to downtown.“I think our location is key. We love it here in Southeast Austin. There’s a lot of breweries around town. We do a lot of work for them.”
At first glance, their headquarters is just an average warehouse, but walking inside, one is greeted by friendly staff and the humming of machines working effortlessly. The thread room is a delight: speckled with pops of color and orderly, of course. Colors are displayed in a rainbow of shades, waiting to come alive in words, patches, and logos, as works of art. With so many options, there is really endless opportunities for which way the needle will go next.
Did you Know?
A-List Embroidery machines have 50 heads, allowing them to complete countless items with the same design.
Contact:
(512) 389-9969
720 US Hwy 183 S #220
alistembroidery.com
@AListEmbroidery
