Posted on July 3rd, 2024. 

When customizing apparel, choosing between embroidery and screen printing can greatly impact the final product's appearance and durability. 

Each technique has its own unique characteristics that make them suitable for different needs. 

In this blog post, we will explore the details of both methods to help you determine which one will work best for your specific project. 

Read on!

Embroidery vs. Screen Printing 

Embroidery creates designs with threaded patterns, adding a delightful texture and depth to fabric. When you think about those durable, aesthetically pleasing logos on polos or hats, embroidery is probably what comes to mind. This method starts with a digital design fed into a computer numerical controlled (CNC) machine, which uses multiple needles and colored threads to stitch the design onto your garment. Embroidery is particularly resilient, maintaining its vivid color and intricate details even after numerous washes. Its longevity is one of the significant pros, making it an excellent option for work uniforms, promotional items, and keepsakes. However, there are cons to consider. The cost can be higher, especially for designs that involve multiple colors or details. Additionally, embroidery may not be the best choice for lighter fabrics, as it could weigh them down and make them feel stiff. Thus, this technique shines on thicker materials like polo shirts, jackets, and hats. While it excels in logos, texts, and simpler designs, even complex imagery can be beautiful if executed skillfully. If you’re aiming for a raised, textured feeling that stands out and offers high durability, embroidery is a stellar choice. 

Screen printing is another fantastic way to make your designs come alive on fabric, but it offers a different experience than embroidery. This method involves pressing ink through a mesh screen that's been stenciled with your design. Each color in the design requires a separate screen, which means the initial setup can take longer and be more costly for intricate, multicolored designs. However, once the screens are ready, screen printing becomes very cost-effective, particularly for large batches. Looking to outfit a team with custom t-shirts or create some promotional bags? Screen printing might be your go-to. The ink lays flat on the fabric, resulting in vivid, detailed artwork that can handle complex designs and color gradients. While customizing clothing in this manner, it's important to consider the longevity of your prints. Although screen printing creates high-quality, vivid designs, the prints can eventually crack or fade if the garment isn't properly cared for. The durability might not match up to embroidery, but with proper maintenance, your screen-printed items can last a good while. Unlike embroidery, which adds a tactile, raised texture, screen printing leaves a smooth finish that’s perfect for lightweight materials. This makes it ideal for t-shirts, tote bags, and other flat fabric items where a large design may benefit the most. If you require an affordable solution for bulk orders or have designs with lots of colors and intricate details, screen printing is likely the better choice for you. 

When choosing between these two methods for adding logos to apparel or customizing clothing, it boils down to the look and feel you’re after and the fabric you’re working with. 

Cost Considerations: Budgeting Your Custom Apparel 

When considering the cost of custom apparel, it's important to compare embroidery and screen printing costs. Embroidery tends to be more expensive, especially for designs with multiple colors. Switching thread colors requires stopping the machine and can increase labor costs. Thicker fabrics work best for embroidery, but they are often pricier, adding to the overall cost. The complexity of the design also affects the price, with simple logos being more affordable than highly detailed or text-heavy designs. The cost is not just for the stitching, but also for the initial digitization of the design into a format that can be read by embroidery machines. This setup fee can be reduced for bulk orders, but it may seem high for smaller runs. 

On the other hand, let's consider the cost of screen printing. In this case, the answer to "is it cheaper to embroider or print?" often leans towards printing, especially for larger quantities. The initial setup involves creating a stencil or screen for each color in the design, which can be time-consuming. There is a direct cost for making these screens, similar to the digitization fee for embroidery. However, once the screens are ready, the process becomes much more cost-effective for larger orders. The cost per item decreases significantly as the quantity increases, making screen printing a great option for bulk orders. The complexity of the design also affects the cost, but mainly during the setup phase. Each additional color requires a new screen, and designs with multiple colors can add up in initial fees. However, once the setup is complete, the quality and time efficiency become apparent. The print lays flat on the fabric and can reproduce intricate designs easily. While the prints may fade or crack over time, proper care can extend their lifespan significantly. 

Related: https://poppystreetthreads.us/blog/custom-embroidery-ideas-personalizing-your-gift-giving 

Final Words 

Choosing between embroidery and screen printing truly depends on what you’re looking to achieve with your custom apparel. For durable, textured designs that pop, embroidery is a fantastic choice, particularly for thicker items like polo shirts, jackets, and hats. If vibrant, flat designs with intricate details and color variety are more your style, screen printing is the way to go, especially for lighter fabrics and larger production runs. 

At Poppy Street Threads, we are dedicated to delivering exceptional craftsmanship and personalized service in every thread we stitch. From custom embroidery to ready-made pieces, our diverse range of goods reflects our commitment to providing unique, high-quality products that elevate your corporate identity. An example of embroidery done right is our Ole Crow Polo. This polo is crafted from high-performance 100% polyester, featuring meticulous embroidery that adds a touch of casual cool to aviation heritage. It's not just a shirt; it's a laid-back expression of your passion for flight. Designed for maximum comfort, it boasts anti-microbial, anti-static, and anti-odor properties to keep you fresh and at ease during your aviation endeavors. 

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Reach out to us at +1 (572) 205-8866 or email [email protected] to place your order today!