Making Primary School Uniforms Affordable: Our Embroidery Trial

Reflecting on Our School Uniform Trial

At Found on a Curb, embroidery and garment decoration have always been at the heart of what we do. From workwear to teamwear, Found on a Curb has built a reputation for quality and reliability. School uniforms, however, were something I had long been reluctant to step into. The expectations are high—parents need affordable, reliable options, and schools need consistency. For a while, I wasn't sure this was the right path for Found on a Curb.  

I have certain rules I live by, especially when it concerns my business.  If I say I am going to do something, I stick to my word and deliver the service I say I will deliver.  I always take accountability for my part and never "pass the book".  Found on a Curb isn't a perfect business, and it never will be.  But living by these rules, sets Found on a Curb apart from most garment printers and embroiderers.      

With the addition of new machinery earlier this year, I finally had the capacity to trial embroidered school uniforms. And I'm glad I did.

The Financial Burden on Parents

The cost of primary school uniforms has become a significant concern for many families. On average, parents spend approximately £287 on compulsory primary school uniforms and sportswear items for a child starting primary school in 2024. This figure doesn't account for additional expenses such as shoes, PE kits, or winter clothing. For families with multiple school-aged children, these costs can quickly add up, leading to financial strain.

My twin brother and I, witnessed my parents face the challenge of purchasing double the uniforms, every year! It got harder and harder as the jumpers quickly became goal posts and the cost to replace the jumper would increased. In my defence, I never lost one school jumper.  My twin brother on the other hand... cough cough :-)

Why We Decided to Trial Uniforms

Two key factors made me take the leap:

• Capacity – With more machinery, I could handle larger volumes while maintaining the quality Found on a Curb is known for.

• Community Need – Parents told us they wanted a trusted local supplier, rather than relying on big-name companies with long lead times.  Meeting the maker and placing accountability with the company they are buying from.  How many times have you gone to purchase the school embroidered garment and the size or colour were not available? 

What We Learned from the Trial

The trial gave me the chance to test the waters and gather real feedback. What became clear is that combining affordable garments (purchased by the parents) with our embroidery service works best for everyone. Parents benefit from purchasing the base garment at a lower cost, while we provide the embroidery that makes it unique to the school. This approach keeps prices fair, quality high, and uniforms durable enough to withstand the day-to-day of school life.  

Looking Ahead

What started as something I was hesitant about has turned into a solution that feels right—for Found on a Curb, for parents, and for schools. 

This is (I guess) just the beginning, and we’ll continue to refine our process based on feedback, but I'm excited about where this service is heading.

Thanks for reading and for your continued support! 

Katie
Found on a Curb