When it comes to custom branded clothing, businesses have two popular options: screen printing and embroidery. Both methods offer a professional finish, but the right choice depends on your design, fabric, budget, and intended use.
At PB Leisurewear, we specialise in both screen printing and embroidery, providing high-quality branded clothing for businesses, events, and organisations across the UK. Whether you need custom workwear, promotional merchandise, or corporate uniforms, choosing the right branding method is crucial for ensuring durability, visibility, and cost-effectiveness.
In this guide, we’ll compare screen printing vs. embroidery, covering their benefits, ideal applications, and how to decide which method best suits your business needs.
What is Screen Printing?
Screen printing is a technique where ink is pressed through a fine mesh screen onto fabric, creating a smooth, vibrant design. Each colour in the design requires a separate screen, making it an ideal method for bold, graphic prints with a high-quality finish.
Advantages of Screen Printing
✔ Cost-Effective for Large Orders – Screen printing is highly economical for bulk orders, as the cost per unit decreases with volume.
✔ Vibrant Colours & Sharp Designs – This method produces bold, eye-catching designs with bright, long-lasting colours.
✔ Great for Large Designs – Screen printing allows full-colour, large-scale designs, making it ideal for promotional t-shirts and uniforms.
✔ Versatile on Different Fabrics – Works well on cotton, polyester, and blends, making it suitable for t-shirts, hoodies, and sportswear.
Disadvantages of Screen Printing
✘ Not Ideal for Small Orders – The setup cost for screen printing makes it less cost-effective for small batches.
✘ Limited Detail on Small Designs – Fine details and small lettering may not reproduce as clearly as they would with embroidery.
✘ Less Durable Over Time – While screen printing is long-lasting, it may fade or crack after repeated washing if not cared for properly.
Best Uses for Screen Printing
- Promotional T-shirts for events and giveaways
- Branded sportswear and team kits
- Corporate uniforms with large, bold logos
- Festival and merchandise clothing
- Custom hoodies and sweatshirts
If your business requires high-volume branded apparel with vibrant designs, screen printing is an excellent choice.
What is Embroidery?
Embroidery is a process where thread is stitched directly into fabric to create a design. It is a durable, premium branding method that adds texture and dimension to logos, making it a popular choice for workwear and corporate clothing.
Advantages of Embroidery
✔ Long-Lasting & Professional Look – Embroidered logos are highly durable and resistant to fading, making them ideal for workwear and uniforms.
✔ Adds a Premium Finish – Embroidery provides a high-end, textured appearance, giving clothing a professional and sophisticated feel.
✔ Works Well on Heavy Fabrics – Perfect for polo shirts, jackets, caps, and fleece materials, where screen printing may not be as effective.
✔ No Risk of Fading or Cracking – Unlike printed designs, embroidery does not fade, peel, or crack over time.
Disadvantages of Embroidery
✘ Higher Cost for Large Designs – Embroidery is more labour-intensive, so large, detailed designs can be expensive.
✘ Not Ideal for Thin Fabrics – Delicate materials such as lightweight t-shirts may not support embroidery well, leading to puckering.
✘ Limited Colour Options – Embroidery is created using thread colours, which may not always match complex gradients or full-colour prints.
Best Uses for Embroidery
- Branded workwear including polo shirts, fleece jackets, and aprons
- Corporate uniforms for staff and client-facing roles
- Caps, hats, and beanies with embroidered logos
- Luxury branded merchandise such as towels and bags
- Small but detailed company logos that require a premium finish
If you’re looking for durable, professional branding for workwear, embroidery is the ideal option.
Screen Printing vs. Embroidery: Which Should You Choose?
The choice between screen printing and embroidery depends on your business needs, budget, and design preferences. Here’s a quick comparison to help you decide:
| Feature | Screen Printing | Embroidery |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Cheaper for large orders | More expensive per unit |
| Durability | May fade over time | Long-lasting and resistant to wear |
| Best For | Promotional t-shirts, bulk orders | Workwear, uniforms, premium apparel |
| Fabric Suitability | Ideal for cotton and polyester | Best for heavier fabrics like polo shirts and jackets |
| Design Complexity | Great for large, colourful designs | Ideal for smaller, more intricate logos |
| Look & Feel | Smooth, flat finish | Raised, textured design |
When to Choose Screen Printing
✔ You need large quantities of branded clothing
✔ Your design features bold colours or large graphics
✔ You want a cost-effective solution for giveaways or events
When to Choose Embroidery
✔ You need a professional, long-lasting logo for uniforms
✔ Your business requires durable branding on workwear
✔ You want a high-quality, premium finish on clothing
Can You Combine Both Screen Printing & Embroidery?
Yes! Many businesses combine both techniques for different clothing items. For example:
- Screen-printed t-shirts for large-scale promotional campaigns
- Embroidered polo shirts or jackets for staff uniforms
- Screen-printed tote bags for giveaways
- Embroidered caps for a professional branded look
At PB Leisurewear, we offer customised solutions tailored to your business needs, ensuring the right branding method for each item in your range.