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SCREEN PRINTING VS EMBROIDERY COMPARISON

Screen Printing vs Embroidery: Which Is Better?

Overview: Screen Printing vs Embroidery

Screen printing and embroidery are both popular methods for custom branding, but they serve different purposes and suit different garment types.

This page compares the two methods so you can choose the best option based on:

  • Garment type
  • Logo size and complexity
  • Quantity
  • Desired look and durability
Screen print festival shirts

What Is Screen Printing?

Screen printing applies ink to the surface of a garment using mesh screens. It is widely used for t-shirts and bulk orders.

Best suited for:

  • T-shirts and lightweight garments
  • Bulk orders
  • Larger designs
  • Flat artwork and logos

Key benefits:

  • Cost-effective for bulk orders
  • Consistent results across many garments
  • Ideal for large prints

What Is Embroidery?

Embroidery stitches your design directly into the fabric using thread. It creates a raised, textured finish and is commonly used for uniforms and workwear.

Best suited for:

  • Polos, hoodies, jackets, and caps
  • Corporate uniforms
  • Small logos and text
  • Professional branding

Key benefits:

  • Premium appearance
  • Extremely durable
  • Long-lasting for daily wear

Screen Printing vs Embroidery: Side-by-Side Comparison

Feature Screen Printing Embroidery
Best Garments               T-shirts Polos, hoodies, workwear
Ideal Quantity 20–200+ 10+
Artwork Size Small to large Small to medium
Artwork Type Logos, flat designs Logos, text
Print Feel Ink on fabric Raised stitched texture
Durability Excellent Excellent
Best For Bulk printed shirts                     Professional uniforms
Cost at Scale Lower per unit Higher per unit

Which Is Cheaper?

Screen printing is usually cheaper when:

  • You’re ordering larger quantities.
  • The design is printed on t-shirts.
  • The design is large or covers more area.

 

Embroidery is usually cheaper when:

  • The logo is small.
  • The garment is a polo or hoodie.
  • You want a premium, stitched finish.

 

Embroidery pricing is influenced by stitch count, while screen printing pricing is influenced by quantity.

Which Looks Better?

Screen printing looks best when:

  • You want bold, eye-catching designs
  • The artwork is large or detailed
  • You’re printing on t-shirts

Embroidery looks best when:

  • You want a professional, uniform look
  • The logo is small and simple
  • The garment is made from heavier fabric

Best Use Cases

Choose Screen Printing if you are ordering:

  • Event t-shirts
  • Promotional shirts
  • Sports team apparel
  • Bulk t-shirt runs

Choose Embroidery if you are ordering:

  • Corporate polos
  • Workwear and uniforms
  • Branded hoodies or jackets
  • Long-term staff apparel

Can You Combine Screen Printing and Embroidery?

Yes. Many customers choose to:

  • Screen print large designs on t-shirts
  • Embroider logos on polos or jackets

This approach allows you to match the printing method to each garment type for the best result.

How to Decide Quickly

A simple rule of thumb:

  • T-shirts + bulk orders → Screen printing
  • Polos/hoodies + logos → Embroidery

If you’re unsure, we can recommend the best option based on your design and garments.

Next Steps

To continue exploring:

Choosing the right method ensures your branding looks professional and lasts.

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