When it comes to customising garments, two popular methods stand out: embroidery and printing. Each technique has its advantages and suits different purposes, depending on the look, durability, and budget you’re aiming for. At Todd and Co, we often help our clients decide which method is best for their custom clothing needs. So, what’s the difference between embroidery and printing on clothing? Let’s take a closer look.
Understanding Embroidery
Embroidery involves stitching designs directly onto the fabric using thread. It’s a traditional method that has been modernised with advanced embroidery machines. The design is digitised first, which converts your artwork into a stitch file, and then the machine sews it onto the garment.
This method is known for its durability and premium finish. Because embroidery involves actual threads, the result is textured and gives a more professional, high-end appearance. It's especially effective for logos and text on polo shirts, caps, jackets, and uniforms.
Advantages of Embroidery
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Long-lasting and hard-wearing
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Ideal for workwear and uniforms
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Offers a professional and premium look
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Great for smaller, more detailed logos
However, embroidery isn’t always the best choice for every application. Large, intricate, or gradient-heavy designs don’t always translate well into thread. Also, on very thin materials like lightweight t-shirts, embroidery can cause puckering due to the stitching process.
Understanding Printing on Clothing
Printing, on the other hand, involves applying ink or other materials onto the surface of the fabric to create a design. There are several types of garment printing, including screen printing, direct-to-garment (DTG), heat transfer, and sublimation.
Screen printing is ideal for bulk orders and designs with few colours. DTG printing is better for smaller runs and detailed, colourful designs. Heat transfer printing allows for photographic images and vibrant designs on a range of materials.
Printing provides flexibility in terms of colour, design complexity, and placement. It’s perfect for promotional t-shirts, fashion apparel, and event merchandise.
Advantages of Printing
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Allows for detailed and colourful designs
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Better suited for large graphics and full-colour images
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Works well on lightweight fabrics
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Ideal for promotional and fashion items
While printing can offer vibrant results, it’s not as durable as embroidery over time, especially after multiple washes. The print may fade or crack depending on the technique used and how the garment is cared for.
So, what’s the difference between embroidery and printing on clothing?
At Todd and Co, we break it down simply: embroidery is about stitching, while printing is about applying ink. Embroidery creates a textured, long-lasting design that stands out, while printing offers more design freedom and colour variety.
Choosing between the two depends on your needs. If you’re looking to brand staff uniforms or want a logo that lasts, embroidery is your best bet. If you're producing a limited run of trendy tees for a campaign or want vibrant, full-colour imagery, then printing will give you the best result.
Cost Comparison
Another key factor to consider is cost. Embroidery can be more expensive upfront because it takes longer to set up and is often priced based on stitch count. However, the results are long-lasting and require less reordering over time.
Printing tends to be cheaper for large, colourful designs, especially when using screen printing in bulk. However, printed designs may not last as long, so depending on how often the clothing is worn and washed, you may need to replace items more frequently.
When to Choose Each Method
Here’s a quick guide based on our experience at Todd and Co:
Choose embroidery if:
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You need a polished, professional look
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Your design is small, like a logo or name
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Durability is a top priority
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You’re working with thicker garments like polos, hoodies, or jackets
Choose printing if:
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Your design is large or colourful
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You want photo-quality or complex graphics
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You’re working with lightweight fabrics
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You’re producing promotional items or one-off fashion pieces
Let Todd and Co Help You Decide
Still wondering what’s the difference between embroidery and printing on clothing? Let our team at Todd and Co guide you. We’ve helped hundreds of businesses, organisations, and individuals create customised garments that look great and last.
Whether you need embroidered polos for your team or printed tees for an upcoming event, we offer both services in-house with fast turnaround and expert advice. We’ll work with you to make sure you get the right finish for your brand and budget.
Contact Todd and Co today to explore the best custom clothing solution for you.