This is a question we are commonly asked. Embroidery refers to clothing that has a pattern or logo stitched into its fabric. Printing is when a design or logo is printed directly onto the garment.
Printing and embroidery both have their own pros and cons. This short article highlights the difference between the two to help you determine which is right for you.
Printing
Printing is often favoured for advertising or promotional uses. This is because it is low cost and can handle complicated artwork better than embroidery can. Printing works well with larger designs and can handle bright colours better. It tends to stand a lot more than embroidery, which is why printing is used so often in advertising. Printing is well suited for T Shirt graphics. A printed logo on a company garment is clean and smart when done correctly. Some people prefer printing to embroidery on low GSM T Shirts as embroidery can pull the fabric. Printed garments are often bought in bulk and are great value for money. Hand drawn or complicated designs are better suited to printing rather than embroidery.
Embroidery
Embroidery is best for creating logos on a thicker garment, such as a polo shirts or jumpers. Embroidery on garments are long lasting and durable. Embroidery may cost more than traditional printing, however the longevity makes it cost effective. With larger designs, we would recommend printing over embroidery. Not all designs are suitable for embroidery and therefore you should take this into consideration. For best results, avoid heavy gradients and a high use of complicated colour palates.
Typical uses of T Shirt printing
T Shirt printing is ideal for promotional events. They are a great way to help people identify your cause or organisation. Personalised clothing acts as a walking advertisement. T Shirt printing is low cost so it is often bought in bulk. T-shirt printing is popular with businesses, and charities. It is also commonly used for stag nights, hen dos and holidays. T-shirt print tends to be larger, brighter and more ‘in your face’. The objective of the T Shirt is to get heads turning and focused on the cause or organisation listed on the T Shirt. Printing allows for more complicated designs when compared to embroidery.
Typical uses of Embroidery
Embroidery requires a high quality and thicker garment, such as a hoodie, polo or sweatshirt. This is because a thinner garment could pull the fabric when attempted to embroid. Typical use of embroidery is for logos or smaller designs. Many businesses choose embroidery in their uniforms. This is because embroidery looks professional and gives the garment a more solid feel. Embroidery is long lasting and will not fade in the wash. For this reason, some argue that embroidery is a lot more cost effective than printing. Embroidery should be used on uniforms and garments that are designed to be long lasting.