Both techniques are good; the mistake is using them where they do not belong. This is the comparison we run with every client who asks.
When embroidery wins
- Uniforms and workwear: survives hundreds of washes without peeling or cracking.
- Thick garments: polos, sweatshirts, fleeces, coats and caps.
- Premium perception: the relief and sheen of thread communicate quality.
- Small runs and repeats: no screen costs; digitizing is done once.
When screen printing wins
- Photographs, gradients and designs with many large flat colours.
- Thin t-shirts where embroidery would pucker the fabric.
- Large promotional runs with a low cost per unit.
The 30-second rule
Is the garment going to be washed a lot, or does it represent your company every day? Embroidery. Is it promotional, thin and short-lived? Print. Not sure? Send us the design and we will tell you what we would do — even if the answer is "this one is better screen printed".
