Be careful friends Don’t try to handle this blog because it is full of hot hot hot tips about goodies like flaming caps. I hope you enjoy. And if you have any burning apparel or promotional products questions, drop ol’

Hi there, Stitchers Have an apparel mystery you need solved? Detective Phil wants on the case Send your questions my way and I’ll have your mysteries unriddled in no time. Here are some puzzles I together recently   Hi Phil,

Hi there, Stitchers! Got an apparel dilemma? I can solve it! Don’t be shy and send your questions my way. Here are some unique queries I received lately.

Hi there, Stitchers! You know, one of the things I enjoy most about your letters is getting a peek at the amazing variety of clients and products that you work with every day.

Hi there, Stitchers! You know, spring weather can be summed up in one word unpredictable. It’s a limbo season, so folks need to be prepared for anything from wind and rain to low temperatures and sudden hot flashes. The season

So the big apparel story coming out of this year’s Ryder Cup golf tournament had nothing to do with the turban-wearing cigar guy in the Tiger Wood’s errant-chip-shot picture. (If you haven’t seen the picture, Google “Cigar Guy Tiger Woods” and you will!). Nope, the big story was the failure of the U.S. team’s rain gear.

Howdy Stitchers! How goes it? You know that saying, “You learn something new every day?” Well it’s true. Today I have learned that the color palette of the season includes purple, purple and more purple. Okay, okay so there are different shades and tones, but in general, people are really digging plums, violets and grapelike colors. Suppliers are getting creative with the color names to spice up their lines and force their products to stand out from the others. I’m really eating up that eggplant hue! Check out some answers to these purple-plotting people and remember to keep the questions coming!

A friend of mine owns a uniform/screen-printing business and he asked me a question regarding a youth soccer club's orders. I run an intramural soccer league, so I know a little bit about the procurement of uniforms. Anyway, he wanted to know how to price the personalization of each jersey, as he has never put names on the back before.

This month, I'm answering a query from a distributor, with a unique wearables challenge.

Occasionally, in life, there comes a time when a man just has to say, "I need help." It's true. While we frequently choose to ignore that fact will driving, there are other times when it's a necessity.

Phil Stitch kindly asked me to guest blog for him on a decorated apparel dilemma, since he's taking a little much-needed R&R. I recently received an inquiry from a distributor who'sworking with his local youth baseball organization.

Phil Stitch kindly asked me to guest blog for him on a decorated apparel dilemma, since he's taking a little much-needed R&R. So, a distributor called me last month looking for some advice. Ah, just what I live for.

Greeting, Stitchers! Get out the floaties and apply some zinc oxide to the tip of your nose, it seems like ya'll have been preparing to swim a few laps around the pool. I have received a few emails from your stitches requesting some swimming gear. I'm right there with ya'll.

So those winter months are coming to an end and you Stitchers are gearing up for the warmer days. I’ve been receiving a lot of requests for tank tops.

It seems as if ya'll Stitchers have some customers that are looking to arrive at their high-end jobs in style. I have received a number of emails requesting laptop bags that can be personalized.

Either you Stichers are looking to dress a snowman or know the winter months are approaching. I’ve been receiving plenty of emails requesting accessories to keep ya’ll warm during the cold season.

It seems like you Stitchers are looking to get a leg up on the competition. I've received a few e-mails requesting leggings in all shapes, styles and colors. And I don't blame you! Leggings are seen everywhere today and have definitely become a mainstream accessory.

Are you ready... For some Football? It certainly seems like ya’ll are. I’ve been receiving plenty of requests for tailgate gear! And believe me; I’ve just as revved up as you Stitchers! Believe it or not, Mr. Phil used to play a little pig skin in his day.

In the apparel marketplace, eco-friendly garments are becoming more compelling for buyers, and it seems as if you Stitchers have witnessed first-hand how carrying such products can increase profits for your business. I’ve recently received a number of emails requesting eco-friendly caps.

Greeting, Stitchers! I’m back! After spending a few weeks in Mexico for a little rest and relaxation, I can honestly say it’s good to be back home in Bangor, Maine. But after going through the hundreds of emails ya’ll sent, I think I’m ready for another vacation.

Greetings, Stitchers! It looks like your customers have had a few stressful days in the office and are looking to take out their frustration on some pins. But before hitting the lanes, it pays dividends to dress the part. Whether it's wearing a retro bowling shirt or bringing your own personalized bag, I've supplied answers that will have you Stitchers throwing strikes in no time.

Greetings, Stitchers! It seems like ya'll are looking for a reliable source for blankets. Don't worry, I've got you covered! There are plenty of companies that supply blankets in different sizes, colors and thickness. Here are few answers for the ones who have some warm ideas. Enjoy, and keep those questions coming!

Greetings, Stitchers! I've been receiving a few questions regarding motorcycle apparel. It seems like ya'll are looking for the proper attire to wear when riding off into the sunset. But before you stitchers start your engines, remember nothing is more important than wearing a helmet!

Greetings, Stitchers! I've decided to do things a little different. Since ya'll have been requesting a number of items that don't quite relate to each other, I combined them. This way, more emails on more topics can be answered. Pretty good idea, if I do say so myself. Enjoy, and keep those dissimilar questions coming!

Greetings, Stitchers! A trend that seems to remain popular is plaid apparel. Whether its plaid pants, T-shirts, hair accessories or hand bags, ya’ll can’t get enough. The country western vibe usually draws a lot attention every fall, but you Stitchers are still requesting the trend even today.

Greetings, Stitchers! I have received a number of emails expressing interest in different types of bags. It's always good to have one around for those personal items and accessories. And this may be the only situation where there's nothing wrong with a little extra baggage!

Greetings, Stitchers! I've been receiving a lot of emails that has to do with dog apparel. I was fortunate to find some items ya'll have been requesting, so I guess I'll throw you Stitchers a bone!

Greetings, Stitchers! It seems as if yall are already preparing for warmer days. I sure have been getting a lot of request for golf apparel. As for me, never played!

Greetings, Stitchers! Eco-friendly apparel is a trend that sure is increasing in popularity. And ya'll sure have been sending a lot of emails with requests to back that statement up. That's a good thing!

Greetings, Stitchers It seems as if ya'll have had a falling out with hairdressers. And the only solution to the problem is a stylish hat. I'm having the same dilemma. I went to get a haircut just the other day

Greetings, Stitchers! Although deer hunting season has long passed, ya'll seem to be requesting a lot of camouflage apparel. Preparing for the next open date are we?

Greetings, Stitchers! Well it seems y'all can't get enough of winter apparel. And I don't blame you folks. Could you believe it was 12 degrees here in Bangor, Maine earlier this week? Golly! We even had a few inches of snow.

Greetings Stitchers! I trust y'all had a very nice Christmas and New Year's Eve. I sure did! I brought in 2009 with style – from my house. Yes, it was way too cold to step foot outside here in Bangor, Maine.

Greetings Stitchers! How are y’all doin? Golly, it’s only a week til Christmas time and wowee, y’all sure have been busy sending me requests!

Greetings, Stitchers! How are y’all doing? The holiday season is officially here, folks! This one radio station up here in Bangor has been playin’ nothing but carols, all day every day for our listenin’ pleasure.

Greetings Stitchers! I hope you all had a terrific Thanksgiving holiday! Gosh, it was so nice to get together with my family and relax while eatin’ a homemade meal.

Greetings Stitchers! Wowza, can you believe it's almost the middle of November! Time seems to be flyin' by up here in Maine!

Greetings Stitchers, Wowee! Y'all sure are crazy about hats lately! You know, I've always thought hats are the perfect accessory for any occasion. I myself love a good booney hat when heading out hunting, or a great fishing cap for mornings down by the river.

Greetings Stitchers, How are y’all doing? Winter weather is here to stay! I’ve been wearin’ my winter coat for almost a week now, piling all my layers underneath when I go out. Even though I’m dressin’ in lots more clothes, I love this time of year!

Greetings Stitchers, How are y’all doin’? It sure is getting chilly up here in Bangor! I love fall -- it’s my favorite time of the year because you can bundle up before going outside and have a nice glass of hot cocoa readin’ the paper at night or just relaxin’ on the porch.

Greetings Stitchers! A few weekends ago, I took a trip down to meet my sister and my nephew, who's starting to look at colleges. He's getting so darn big! Golly, I remember when he was a little tyke and now he's taller than his uncle Phil!

Greetings Stitchers! Howdy! Up here in Maine, all the pretty trees are losing their green leaves. As it’s getting further into October, they’re turning all kinds of colors like bright oranges and deep reds. Everything outside is so pretty; it just makes me so gosh darn excited!

Greetings Stitchers! You know, I was on the computer the other day lookin’ up some airfare for some holiday travel to my sister's house. Wowee, I can’t believe it’s already October!

Greetings Stitchers! I just got back from a weekend getaway to the Windy City, Chicago! I don’t know about y’all but I’m a HUGE fan of baseball. And when I saw how good the Cubs were doing out there at Wrigley, I had to take a little trip outta town for a game.

Greetings Stitchers! How are y’all doing? I’ve been so busy up here in Bangor! Besides getting all of your requests and writing to y’all I’ve been busy working on my page on that new Stitches Magazine Social Site (www.stitchesmagsocialsite.com). I don’t know if you’ve been to it yet, but it’s really neato!

Greetings Stitchers! A few months ago, in a past issue of Stitches, I read a little quote that made me chuckle. It said, “Wine a little. You’ll feel better.” Golly, I must say that’s a really cute little sayin’. I’m no wine expert, but I do enjoy a nice glass of wine every now and again with my supper.

Greetings Stitchers, Most of the youngsters are back at school here in Bangor. Those sales have been going on it seems since the end of May, with ads for crayons and books and pencils all over the place!

Greetings Stitchers! Or should I say, howdee! Golly, you Stitchers sure are in a frenzy for Western gear. I feel like I’m gonna walk out my cabin up here and see cowboys all over in these woods!

Greetings Stitchers! Y’all are going crazy with all these gosh darn dance requests! Seems to me you Stitchers are dancing up a storm and golly, I’m so excited! I myself don’t dance too much, besides the occasional electric slide at family weddings.

Greetings Stitchers, I sure have been getting a lot of requests for baby items! Bouncing babies are all over the place, even up here in Bangor! I’ve seen little tykes on vacation and getting all kinds of souvenirs from the local stores like bucket hats, robes, sweatshirts -- wow!

Greetings Stitchers! Howdy! I hope y’all are enjoying this beautiful summer weather. I’ve sure been busy getting lots of requests! I know it’s the end of July and August is just around the corner but I’ve already been getting some requests for Christmas stuff! Golly!

Greetings Stitchers! Golly, it is beautiful up here in Maine! It’s raining today, but it’s been so nice and warm and sunny out! You know, it’s sure is a great time of year for preseason football to start up.

Greetings Stitchers! Wowee! My mailbox here is overflowing with letters from all you readers! And, seeing that it’s almost back to school time, I’ve just been getting more and more letters about school uniforms!

Greetings Stitchers! I hate to keep pestering y’all with talk about my "little" vacation to Mexico -- but I had something I forgot to share with you last time! I guess I was so darn excited to be back it just slipped my mind!

Greetings Stitchers! Or, should I say hola! I must say, for those of y’all who haven’t been to Mexico lately -- you should go! The beach was fantastic and the margaritas -- well, let’s just say they helped me beat the heat! I did check my e-mail from time to time, but I still had a ton of messages when I got back! Golly, I was so excited to see y’all kept writin’ to me!

Greetings Stitchers! Or perhaps I should say, goodbye! If you read my blog on the 30th, you’re already in the loop. But, for those that may have missed it, I’m skippin’ town. No, not forever, just for a month or so.

Greetings Stitchers! Guess what!? Remember awhile back I did a blog called ‘Vivary Whattery’ in which I talked about how I was getting bombarded with requests for quilted bags?

Greetings Stitchers! I have EXCITING news! Well, it’s very exciting for me, but perhaps not so exciting for you. I’m going to Mexico! That’s right. In three weeks, I’ll be going to Mexico for a much-needed siesta.

Greetings Stitchers! While I always welcome your questions, I want to ask a favor, folks. If you’ve got a question for me, don’t just post it one of the blogs. Rather, I’d like you to post it on the blog and send me an e-mail at askphil@asicentral.com, or just send me an e-mail...

Greeting Stitchers One of my all time favorite movies is Young Frankenstein. (If you’re a faithful reader, that comes as no surprise, as I talked about Blazing Saddles a while back and how much I like Mel Brooks.) But anyway,

Greetings Stitchers! Before camo garb became my preferred clothing of choice, I have to admit that there were some pretty awful fashion trends that caught me hook, line and sinker. For example, the '70s-era plaid bell bottoms and polyester shirts? I was there. Then, those black denim jeans with a matching bomber? Yep. Been there, done that, too.

Greetings Stitchers! Believe it or not, I actually broke down and went to a mall the other day. I know, I know, that’s so uncharacteristic of me, but yes, I had to get a few birthday gifts. And yes, it was torture.

Greetings Stitchers! I get asked some pretty unusual questions. That’s nothing new. But while many of my questions are unusual, some are downright weird. I have to admit; it’s been awhile since I’ve gotten a really off-the-wall request...

Greetings Stitchers! So I hear y’all are askin’ about me! How so? Stitches Editor Nicole Rollender called me the other day and said attendees at the Stitches Roadshows were very interested in what I’m like and how in the heck I know so much...

Greetings Stitchers! There must be something in the water. Fortunately, I don’t mean toxins. I’m sure you all heard about those poor folks in Philadelphia. They’re drinking hormone pills and anti-depressants in their water because it’s not properly filtered.

Greetings Stitchers! It’s April! I love it! Spring’s here and my crocuses are in all their glory. But, I’ll tell ya, April’s not an easy month to figure out how to dress! Just last week it was 65 degrees and sunny. The next, rainy and 35 degrees...

Greetings Stitchers! A very happy spring to you all! For many of you embroiderers who are always gearing up for the upcoming season, I’ll bet you’ve been “thinking spring” since December. So now that’s spring’s arrived, summer’s on your minds, isn’t it?

Greetings Stitchers! I’ve got some dynamite news. You know those tumblers y’all keep askin’ for? You know, the ones that you can insert monogrammed fabric or pictures into?

Greetings Stitchers! I’ll admit it -- I’m a Shakespeare fan. I know, I know, it doesn’t really fit my profile – hunter, fisherman, cook – but I really think ol' Bill's plays are exciting.

Greetings Stitchers! Happy March! Do you know what that means? It’s nearly time to welcome in spring. I don’t know about you, but I’m ready for some warmer weather and spring flowers!            

Greetings Stitchers! I’ve always wanted to direct a movie. I’m not sure which kind, or what about, but I’ve always wanted to yell, “Cut!” and “That’s a wrap!”

Greetings Stitchers! I have someone I’d like y’all to meet. He’s a great pal of mine, and I could tell you a dozen fishing stories, but today, I’ll spare you...

Greetings Stitchers! Happy Valentine’s Day! I hope you all get to spend the day with your loved ones… or, with a nice big box of chocolate.

Greetings Stichers! Today marks the anniversary of the 22nd Phil-blog I’ve ever written! I know — it seems like that couldn’t possibly be right — but I counted! Anyway, back near number five, I asked you all what you thought of this here blog...

Greetings Stitchers! “Is that a 10-gallon hat or are you just happy to see me?” Name that movie. Did you guess it? It’s Blazing Saddles. If you haven’t seen it, you aren’t living. Or at least you’re not laughing enough. Last night, I was channel surfing and came across that movie...

Greetings Stitchers! I think now’s as good a time as ever to tell you about my dog, Ginger. She’s part German shepherd, part bloodhound and part beagle. And I’m more than confident in saying she’s the best darn huntin’ dog around.

Greetings Stichers! Is it cold enough for ya!? Those of you in sub-tropical climates need not answer that…just be kind and let us Northerners complain about sub-zero temperatures!

Greetings Stichers! For this weeks' blog entry, I’m venturing completely outside my comfort zone. I know what you’re thinking, “Here we go again." But, seriously, there’s a subject y’all want to know about. And after all, that’s my job.

Greetings Stitchers! I hope you’re all having a very happy holiday season. And with New Year’s just a few days away, I’m also hoping you’ve made plans to get out and about!

Greetings Stitchers! Alright, I’ll admit it. I love chocolate almost as much as Wal-Mart and a pair of warm long johns right from the dryer...

Greetings Stitchers! "It’s a beautiful day in the neighborhood, a beautiful day in the neighborhood." Can you name that tune?

Greetings Stitchers! It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas! I’m sure your businesses are super busy with holiday orders, so I hope you’re getting a few minutes here and there for some R&R...     

Greetings Stitchers! How about a tall tale? Once upon a time in a faraway land … What? You’re not in the mood? Well, how about some help finding clothing in extra large and tall sizes? Is that cheering I hear? I knew you’d like my second idea better!         

Now I know you’ll all be so disappointed, but this will be my only blog entry for the next two weeks! Next week is Thanksgiving, and I’m headed to my sister’s house for some quality eatin’ so this product know-it-all’s taking the day off...

I’ve always had a soft-spot for stuffed animals. Both my niece and nephew had their favorite little animals, and as a matter of fact, I still have my stuffed animal from when I was young. It’s a rabbit...

Happy November to ya! It’s hard to believe that Thanksgiving is three weeks away! I think that means I’ve got to get out and do some more huntin’. I haven’t gotten the yearly turkey yet!         

I think I owe a couple faithful readers an apology. It seems that the “Ask Phil archive” (at www.stitches.com) that I often refer people to when I can’t find something, isn’t as extensive as I thought – yet.

Greetings Phil-sters! You know, I really think autumn’s my favorite time of year. Along with kids going back to school and it being hunting season, IT’S FOOTBALL SEASON!

Hi there, faithful readers! You know, I’m a little disappointed in the lack of feedback I’m getting on my blogs. How can I call any of you ‘faithful readers’ (except you, dear Sandra) when there aren't any comments’ below each entry?

Happy October! Although, I’ll tell ya, it sure doesn’t feel like October here in Bangor. Yesterday, it was 76 degrees and tomorrow, they’re callin’ for a high of 78! Seems more like summer!

Merry Christmas! Well, OK. I may be jumping the gun a little to some of you, but I’ll bet a lot of you decorators and embroidery shop owners are starting to ramp up your Christmas selections.

Fall’s upon us. Even if the “official” start date isn’t till September 23, the kids are back at school and even the weather's hinting at a season change.

In the past three months, I’ve gotten four requests for sleeveless safety green T shirts. Now, even though I could have saved these poor souls from my sarcastic remarks, (if they had checked the archives ) the real stickler here

Hi there, Stitches readers, and welcome to the Phil Stitch blog This all started when that nice editor, Nicole Rollender called me and asked if I’d consider doing something a little extra for Stitches readers called a ‘blog’ on the