Embroidery vs. Screen Printing

Embroidery vs Screen Printing: Which Is Right for Your Apparel?

Allegra of Lansing offers both custom embroidery and screen printing, helping you choose the best decoration method for your apparel. Each technique has its strengths depending on your goals, fabric, and order size.

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What is Embroidery?

  • Durability: Thread stitching won’t fade, crack, or peel.
  • Premium look: Adds dimension and sophistication to polos, jackets, hats, and bags.
  • Best for uniforms: Corporate apparel, restaurants, schools, and teams.
  • Works on thicker fabrics: Ideal for outerwear, hats, and accessories.

What is Screen Printing?

  • Applies ink through a stencil for bold, vivid designs.
  • Cost-effective for bulk orders, especially simple logos or graphics.
  • Best on flat surfaces like t-shirts, hoodies, and jerseys.
  • Ideal for large, colorful prints that cover more of the garment.

Key Differences at a Glance

  • Look & feel: Embroidery adds texture and a polished finish; Screen printing gives a bold, flat design.
  • Durability: Embroidery lasts longer on heavy garments; Screen printing is durable on everyday wear.
  • Best uses: Embroidery = polos, jackets, hats; Screen printing = t-shirts, hoodies, bulk event shirts.
  • Order size: Embroidery works well for small or large orders; Screen printing is most economical in bulk.

Pros & Cons

Embroidery - Pros

  • Professional, upscale appearance
  • Extremely durable
  • Works on thick fabrics
  • Great for uniforms & branded corporate wear

Embroidery - Considerations

  • Not ideal for large, detailed graphics
  • Limited color blending vs. printing

Screen Printing - Pros

  • Bold, vivid colors
  • Cost-effective for bulk orders
  • Great for large logos or designs
  • Works on t-shirts, hoodies, and more

Screen Printing - Considerations

  • Can fade or crack over time if not cared for
  • Setup fees for multiple colors
  • Less durable on heavy fabrics compared to embroidery

How to Choose

  • Want a premium, professional look? Choose Embroidery.
  • Ordering bulk t-shirts for events? Choose Screen Printing.
  • Branding uniforms, hats, or jackets? Embroidery delivers polish and durability.
  • Promotional giveaways? Screen printing keeps costs lower for high quantities.

Not sure which to choose? Send us your artwork and we’ll recommend the best method for your project.