Embroidery vs. Screen Printing: Your Complete Guide to Custom Apparel

When it comes to customizing uniforms, t-shirts, or promotional products, you've probably heard about embroidery and screen printing. But what's the real difference? And more importantly, which one makes sense for your needs? Let's break it down!

What Is Embroidery? 

Embroidery is exactly what it sounds like—stitching thread directly onto fabric to create your design. Think of it like sewing a design onto your garment using specialized machines that precisely control thousands of stitches. The result? A raised, textured finish that you can actually feel.  

Fun fact: Embroidery has been around for centuries. That premium, classic look you see on polo shirts and corporate uniforms? That's embroidery at work.  

What Is Screen Printing? 

Screen printing uses a different approach. Imagine creating a stencil for each color in your design, then pushing ink through that stencil onto your fabric. Each color needs its own screen, which is why the process is sometimes called "silk screening".  

The end result is a smooth, flat design that sits on top of the fabric—perfect for bold graphics and detailed images.

Quick Comparison: Side by Side

When Should You Choose Embroidery? 

Embroidery shines in specific situations. Here's when it's your best bet: 

• Professional Uniforms – Corporate shirts, medical scrubs, or hospitality wear where you want that premium, polished look  


• Small logos – Company logos on the chest or sleeve work perfectly with embroidery  


• Hats and caps – Screen printing doesn't work well on curved surfaces, but embroidery does  


• Durability matters – Items that get washed frequently (like work uniforms) benefit from embroidery's long-lasting quality  


• Smaller quantities – Ordering 20 jackets? Embroidery won't penalize you for small runs

The look: Professional, classic, upscale 

The feel: Textured, raised, premium  

When Should You Choose Screen Printing? 

Screen printing has its own superpowers. Consider it when: 

• You need bold graphics – Full-back designs, colorful illustrations, or detailed artwork look stunning with screen printing  


• Large orders – Printing 100+ t-shirts? Screen printing becomes very cost-effective  


• You want color variety – Gradients, photo-realistic images, and unlimited color options are screen printing's playground  


• Soft feel is important – Modern water-based inks create a soft, comfortable finish that embroidery can't match  


• T-shirts and casual wear – Promotional tees, event shirts, and merchandise are perfect candidates  

The look: Bold, vibrant, modern 

The feel: Smooth, soft, breathable  

Care and Maintenance Tips 

For Embroidered Items: 

• Wash inside-out to protect the stitching


• Use regular detergent (embroidery is tough!) 


• Avoid snagging on rough surfaces 


• Iron around the embroidered area, not directly on it  

For Screen Printed Items: 

• Wash inside-out to preserve the print


• Use cold or warm water (not hot)


• Skip the dryer if possible—air dry is best


• Use mild detergent without harsh chemicals


• Never iron directly on the printed design

Real-World Scenarios 

Let's make this practical: 

Scenario 1: Restaurant Opening 

You need uniforms for 15 staff members with your logo on the chest. 

Best choice: Embroidery. Professional look, durable for daily washing, perfect for small logos. 

Scenario 2: Music Festival Merch 

You're printing 500 t-shirts with a colorful festival design. 

Best choice: Screen printing. Cost-effective at volume, vibrant colors, comfortable for all-day wear. 

Can You Combine Both? 

• Absolutely! Many businesses use both methods strategically: 


• Embroidered logo on the chest + screen printed large design on the back 


• Embroidered name tags + screen printed event graphics 


• Premium embroidered uniforms for management + screen printed t-shirts for front-line staff 

There's no rule that says you have to pick just one.  

The Bottom Line 

There's no universal "winner" here. Embroidery and screen printing each have their place: 

Choose embroidery when you want durability, premium appearance, small designs, or you're ordering smaller quantities. It's perfect for uniforms, corporate wear, and anything that needs to look polished and professional.  

Choose screen printing when you need bold graphics, large designs, bulk orders, or you want unlimited color options. It's ideal for promotional items, event merchandise, and casual apparel.  

And here's the thing—you don't have to be an expert to make the right choice. At Fully Promoted Southport, we help Gold Coast businesses figure this out every day.

Visit our showroom in Ashmore, touch the fabrics, see the samples, and we'll guide you to the option that fits your brand, budget, and goals.  

Ready to get started? Call us at 07 5610 5700 or drop by Suite 1A, Currumburra Road, Ashmore. Let's create something your team will love wearing.