Screen Printing vs. Embroidery: How to Choose the Right Decoration Method

When you’re creating custom apparel for your business, event, or organization, choosing the right decoration method is just as important as choosing the garment itself. Two of the most popular methods — screen printing and embroidery — each offer unique advantages, and the best choice depends on your artwork, your budget, and how the apparel will be used.

Here’s a simple breakdown to help you make the best decision for your next project.

What Is Screen Printing?

Screen printing uses ink pressed through a mesh screen onto the garment.
It’s known for:

• Bright, bold colors

• Smooth prints

• Cost-effective pricing for larger quantities

• Excellent durability

Screen printing works especially well on:

• T-shirts

• Hoodies

• Sweatshirts

• Event apparel

• Promotional items

• Large, detailed designs

If you’re printing a full-front graphic or you need dozens (or hundreds) of shirts, screen printing is almost always the most cost-efficient method.

What Is Embroidery?

Embroidery uses thread to stitch your logo directly into the fabric.
It’s known for:

• Premium look and feel

• Long-lasting durability

• Professional, elevated appearance

• Ideal for uniforms and corporate apparel

Embroidery is perfect for:

• Polos

• Jackets

• Hats

• Workwear

• Fleece and outerwear

• Left-chest logo placements

If you want your team to have a clean, polished, uniform appearance, embroidery is typically the better choice.

When to Choose Screen Printing

Use screen printing when:

• Your design is larger (full front or back)

• You’re ordering 50+ garments

• You want vibrant colors

• Your artwork has solid shapes or bold graphics

• You’re printing for events, giveaways, or promotions

Screen printing is unbeatable for large, colorful designs at scale.

When to Choose Embroidery

Use embroidery when:

• You want a professional, upscale look

• The logo is small and simple

• You’re decorating polo shirts, jackets, or hats

• You need something that lasts through heavy use

• You want your apparel to feel premium

Embroidery elevates the garment — especially on fleece, polos, and corporate wear.

What About the Cost?

Here’s the simplest way to understand it:

• Screen printing gets cheaper the more you order

• Embroidery pricing changes based on stitch count and garment type

A large printed design will almost always cost less than a large embroidered one.

A small embroidered logo will almost always look better than a small printed one.

Which Method Should You Choose?

Here’s a quick visual summary:

Both decoration methods have their strengths — the key is choosing the one that aligns with your brand’s goals, the garment type, and the intended use.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re outfitting employees, promoting an event, or building a brand, choosing the right decoration method makes all the difference. At Screen Tek, we help businesses every day decide whether screen printing or embroidery is the best fit — and we make the entire process simple and stress-free.

👉 Ready to get expert guidance on your next project?
Contact us today to compare samples, get pricing, and choose the perfect method for your custom apparel.