When you’re looking to customize some apparel – whether that’s for your business, school, sports team or organization – you’ve got two of the most popular decoration methods to choose from: screen printing and embroidery. While both options can give you a pro-looking finish, each one has its own strengths that depend on the type of garment, the design, and what you’re going to be using the gear for.
If you want to decide between embroidery and screen printing, understanding the differences between them will help you figure out which option is the best fit for your project.
What Screen Printing Is All About
The screen printing process involves ink getting pressed through a mesh screen onto fabric to create a design. In this printing method, each color gets done separately, which means you can end up with bold, vibrant graphics that really make your apparel stand out.
Screen printing works great for:
- T-shirts
- Hoodies
- Team apparel
- Spirit wear
- Event merchandise
- Promotional clothing
Because it produces clean, consistent results, screen printing is especially popular for bigger orders of apparel and for designs with multiple colours or big artwork.
What Embroidery Is All About
Unlike screen printing, embroidery designs are stitched right into the fabric. Instead of ink fusing with the garment, embroidery works when the embroidered design is fastened to the material. And because it’s done with thread, embroidery gives off a textured, professional look that lots of businesses go for for branded merchandise and employee uniforms.
Embroidery is often used on:
- Polo shirts
- Hats
- Jackets
- Workwear
- Corporate uniforms
Embroidery machines work well on thicker fabrics to create a professional appearance with intricate designs.
When Screen Printing Is the Way to Go
Screen printing is often your best bet when you want casual, high-visibility gear. Large graphics, colourful artwork, and bold branding all work really well with this method.
Lots of schools, sports teams, businesses and event organisers go for screen printing because it lets them produce matching gear quickly while still keeping the colours looking bright and the design clear.
Screen printing is especially great for:
It’s also a good option when comfort is key, because modern screen printing techniques can make soft, lightweight prints on good quality gear.
When Embroidery Is the Better Choice
Embroidery is often the preferred option for more individualized customization – when you want to give off a really unique look. Because embroidery involves the design being stitched right into the garment, it creates a premium appearance that works especially well for specific uniforms and business gear.
Lots of companies go for embroidery because it’s great for employee polos, branded hats, jackets, trade show gear and corporate uniforms.
Comparing Durability and Appearance
Both screen printing and embroidery can look great if they’re done right, but they create different kinds of visual style.
Screen printing typically offers:
- Smooth, vibrant graphics
- Big color options
- Ability to do large artwork
- Softer designs on lightweight gear
Embroidery typically offers:
- Textured stitching
- A more dimensional appearance with intricate details
- Strong durability on uniforms and outerwear
How Durable Are They?
Both screen printing and embroidery can survive frequent washing without losing anything. In fact, if done right, the design should last the lifetime of the garment. Screen printed garments are known to last many years without fading, and the same goes for embroidered garments – lots of washing does not equate to damage of embroidered logos or complex designs.
Which Option Is Best for Your Project?
The choice between embroidery vs screen printing comes down to a few things: the type of gear you’re using, your budget, the number of orders, how complicated your design is, and what you’re going to be using the gear for.
If you’re ordering t-shirts for a fundraiser or event, screen printing might be the better fit. If you need professional uniforms or branded workwear, embroidery might be just what you’re looking for.
Lots of businesses and organizations actually use both methods for different purposes. For instance, a company might use embroidered polos for employees while ordering screen printed t-shirts for community events.
Your Custom Apparel Solution in Idaho Falls
Screen Graphics are the screen printing pros you can rely on. We’ve got your back when it comes to choosing the right customization method for your apparel. Whether you need bright, screen printed shirts for a big event or custom merch for your staff, we can help you create gear that meets your goals, budget and brand. Screen printing offers bright colors that won’t fade in a few washes, and detailed designs perfect for promoting your brand and organization. It’s a convenient and cost effective method for mass producing apparel and merch with high quality designs and company logos.
To Summarize
Both screen printing and embroidery are top-notch options for custom apparel. The best choice depends on what type of gear you’re using, what style of design you’re going for, and how the gear is going to be used.
By understanding the strengths and weaknesses of each method, you can make a more informed decision and create custom apparel that looks pro, lasts and represents your brand well.
