Embroidery vs. Screen Printing: How to Choose for Your Logo
Putting your logo on apparel usually comes down to two classics: embroidery (stitched thread) or screen printing (ink). Neither is "better" across the board — they suit different garments and goals. Here's how to choose.
The quick rule
Want a premium, professional look on polos, caps, jackets, or bags? Go embroidery. Printing bold graphics or lots of tees on a budget? Go screen printing.
Embroidery: stitched, upscale, durable
Embroidery stitches your logo directly into the fabric with thread. It reads as high-end, holds up for years, and looks especially sharp on structured items — polos, button-downs, beanies, caps, and outerwear. It's priced by stitch count (design size and detail) rather than colors, and it starts at a 6-piece minimum, so a set of branded polos is no problem. We keep your digitized logo on file so reorders are quick and identical.
Screen printing: bold, affordable at volume
Screen printing lays ink on the surface for vivid, large designs — think full-back event graphics or a big front-chest print. It's the most cost-effective way to do a lot of shirts, with the per-shirt price dropping as quantity rises. Minimum is 24 pieces, up to six spot colors.
Head-to-head
| Embroidery | Screen Printing | |
|---|---|---|
| Look | Premium, textured, professional | Bold, flat, graphic |
| Best garments | Polos, caps, jackets, bags | Tees, hoodies, event shirts |
| Minimum | 6 pieces | 24 pieces |
| Priced by | Stitch count | Quantity & colors |
| Large / detailed graphics | Not ideal | Excellent |
| Durability | Excellent (won't crack or fade) | Excellent |
How to decide
- Company polos, staff caps, corporate jackets? Embroidery — it signals quality and lasts.
- Team tees, fundraiser shirts, event giveaways? Screen printing — best price at volume, big bold art.
- Doing both a uniform polo and event tees? Many businesses use embroidery for everyday staff wear and screen printing for bulk events. We can do both in one order.
Frequently asked questions
Is embroidery more expensive than screen printing?
For small quantities of structured items like polos and caps, embroidery is very competitive and looks premium. For large runs of t-shirts, screen printing is usually cheaper per piece. The best choice depends on the garment and quantity — we're happy to price both.
Which lasts longer, embroidery or screen printing?
Both are highly durable. Embroidery is thread stitched into the fabric, so it won't crack or fade; quality screen printing also holds up for years with normal care. For everyday-wear apparel you'll be satisfied with either.
Can you embroider hats and bags?
Yes — caps, beanies, and bags are some of the most popular embroidery items. We also embroider polos, jackets, and uniforms, with a 6-piece minimum.
What about a big, colorful graphic on a t-shirt?
That's a job for screen printing (bulk) or DTF (small runs and full color). Embroidery is best for logos and lettering rather than large, photographic designs.
Not sure which fits your project? Get a free quote — send your logo and the items you want decorated, and we'll recommend embroidery, screen printing, or a mix, with pricing within one business day. Local pickup in Irving or shipping across DFW and beyond.