Embroidery vs. Screen Printing: Which is Better for Your Design
Embroidery vs. Screen Printing: Which is Better for Your Design
When it comes to customizing your T-shirt or hats, with your logo, there are 2 main options: embroidery and screen printing are the most common choices. Both methods have their own advantages as well as limitations to think about, so let’s take a closer look at both to help you make the right method that is going to lend itself to your specific needs.
Cost
- Embroidery: The cost is normally a little higher than custom screen printing, especially for images that are larger. The bigger the image, the higher the stitch count. That said, smaller designs that would be used for a hat or a left chest application, have a much lower price point.
- Screen Printing: This method can be a whole lot more cost-effective for large applications such as a big jacket back. It also requires an individual setup for each color the design is composed of. Each color in the image requires a separate setup.
- With that said, the setup charges can be considered nominal if the volume of T-shirts is higher.
Durability
- Embroidery designs, which are stitched directly into the fabric, tend to be more durable and last longer than ink because it becomes part of the T-shirt instead of just laying on top of it.
- Screen Printing is generally durable as well, if you get a good cure on the ink. Most T-shirt inks are a plastic base that is completely dry at around 320 degrees Fahrenheit.
Suitability
- There is no substitute for thread regarding longevity. It often adds a more textured and a three-dimensional appearance. It can however lead to puckering on thinner materials.
- Ink is often a better choice for t-shirts and lightweight apparel. It offers a softer feel and is better suited for larger designs.
In conclusion, the choice between both custom embroidery and screen printing depends on both your budget and preferences. Neither choice is right or wrong. It’s really apples and oranges.
Soon, we will be discussing St. Louis companies that cater to DTF direct to film on custom T-shirts.