Embroidery in Australia: what it suits best and which products to choose

10 September, 2025 by Tony Fagerlund

Embroidery is the go to for premium looking, long lasting branding. It holds up to frequent wear and washing, keeps colours crisp, and adds texture that looks professional on uniforms and promo apparel.



When embroidery is the right choice





  • You need durability

    Embroidery is stitched into the fabric, so logos stay sharp through regular laundering. This makes it ideal for work uniforms, hospitality, healthcare, education, and teamwear.




  • You want a premium finish

    The raised stitch gives a high quality look that elevates polos, button ups, jackets, caps, and bags.




  • You are branding PPE or hi vis

    Many Australian workplaces must provide suitable PPE. Embroidery is a practical way to add branding to uniforms while keeping the garment’s protective function intact. Always place decoration so it does not interfere with visibility or other safety features. Safe Work Australia+1




  • You claim eligible uniform costs

    In Australia, employees can claim certain work related clothing costs, including distinctive compulsory uniforms and protective clothing. Embroidery helps make a uniform distinctive and permanent, which is relevant for eligibility. Always check the ATO rules or ask your tax adviser. Australian Taxation Office





Best products for embroidery





  • Polos and business shirts

    Left chest logos on polos and button ups deliver a clean, professional look that suits most industries in NSW and across Australia.




  • Caps and beanies

    Front centre cap logos work well for teams, events, and outdoor staff.




  • Outerwear

    Fleece, softshell, and padded jackets handle larger stitch counts and look premium for field staff and corporate wear.




  • Aprons and hospitality wear

    Embroidery on bib or waist aprons withstands heavy laundering in kitchens and cafes.




  • Bags and totes

    Backpacks, laptop bags, and canvas totes gain perceived value with stitched branding.




  • Towels and robes

    Monograms and logos on towels, robes, and gym gear are durable and gift ready.





When to consider a different method





  • Very small text

    Letters under about 4 mm tall can fill in. Use print or increase the size.




  • Large solid filled areas on light fabrics

    Heavy stitch blocks can add weight. Consider print or applique for big solids.




  • Ultra stretchy or very thin garments

    These can pucker under dense stitching. Use a lighter design or another decoration method.





Practical setup tips





  • Left chest size

    Common width is 80 to 100 mm for most adult garments. Keep fine details bold.




  • Cap embroidery

    Max height around 50 to 60 mm on most structured caps. Avoid seams with fine details.




  • Thread choice

    Polyester thread is colourfast and wash safe for uniforms. Metallic threads add a premium touch for awards and hospitality.




  • Digitising matters

    A well digitised logo runs cleaner, reduces thread breaks, and looks sharper on fabric textures like pique polo knits.




  • Hi vis placement

    Keep logos clear of reflective tape or high visibility panels so the garment continues to meet safety expectations. Safe Work Australia+1





Why this works for Australian brands





  • Promotional products deliver lasting impact

    Recent Australian industry reporting shows strong recall and long term retention for branded merchandise, which includes embroidered apparel. Figures commonly cited include high brand recall and long keeping times for useful items. Cubic Promote




  • Local expertise and industry backing

    The Australasian Promotional Products Association represents the sector across Australia and New Zealand and highlights the ongoing role of branded merchandise in marketing mix decisions. APPA



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