The Embroiderer Behind Ham Radio’s Coolest Gear: Bart SQ1K

Bart Bzymek SQ1K is a Polish ham radio operator who’s stitched together two worlds—DXing and design—into a life as precise as the embroidery he’s known for. He began as a shortwave listener in the 1990s and quickly climbed through Poland’s licensing system, earning his first-class ticket by mastering CW. A dedicated contester, Bart has logged serious time on-air, including stints as a guest op with the Polish HQ team at IARU.

But it’s his embroidery business—launched with a single-needle machine as a side hobby—that’s made him a go-to figure in the global ham community. Since 2014, Bart and his wife have run a custom embroidery shop focused exclusively on amateur radio. With multiple machines and a worldwide client base, they create everything from personalized polos to DXpedition gear—each piece thoughtfully designed and precisely stitched. He’s outfitted some of the most prominent expeditions, including the striking 3Y0K Bouvet logo. In this episode, Kevin W1DED and Bart SQ1K formally announce a new partnership to launch official Q5 merchandise, bringing Bart’s craftsmanship into the heart of the show. Bart’s story is a reminder that amateur radio thrives on passion—and sometimes, a really good hoodie.

Join the conversation, subscribe to Q5 Worldwide Ham Radio, and order your Q5 apparel today.

Thanks to DX Engineering for backing hams around the globe—from park activators to DX chasers—with gear that delivers when it counts.