Screen Printing vs. Embroidery: Which Is Best for Your Custom Apparel?

April 30, 2025

When it comes to customizing apparel, two popular methods dominate the market: screen printing and embroidery. Each offers unique advantages and can produce exceptional results, but understanding which technique is best suited for your needs can help you make an informed decision. Let’s break down the differences between screen printing and embroidery to help you choose the right option for your custom apparel.

Screen Printing: Vibrant and Affordable

Screen printing involves applying layers of ink onto the fabric through a mesh screen. This process is ideal for designs with multiple colors and large prints. The ink is pressed onto the material, providing bold, vibrant colors that stand out.

Advantages of Screen Printing:

  • Cost-effective for large orders: Screen printing becomes more economical when you need to print large quantities, as the cost per unit decreases significantly with volume.


  • Vibrant colors: This method allows for vivid, sharp colors that pop, making it ideal for designs with detailed logos or artwork.


  • Durability: With the right ink and fabric combination, screen printing can be highly durable, with designs that hold up well after repeated washings.

When to Choose Screen Printing

Screen printing is perfect for designs with a large number of colors or when you’re working with bulk orders. It’s also the best choice when you want a smooth, uniform finish that covers large areas of fabric. Whether you’re creating custom t-shirts, hoodies, or tote bags, screen printing delivers striking results at an affordable price.

Embroidery: Elegant and Timeless

Embroidery uses thread to stitch designs onto fabric, giving your custom apparel a professional, textured finish. This method works best for simpler designs, such as logos, initials, or monograms. The stitched design adds a touch of elegance, making it a popular choice for corporate uniforms, hats, and polos.

Advantages of Embroidery:

  • Professional and high-end look: Embroidered designs exude a polished, upscale appearance, making them ideal for businesses looking to project a professional image.


  • Long-lasting and durable: Embroidery is highly durable and can withstand wear and tear better than other methods. The stitched threads are strong and resistant to fading.


  • Great for smaller designs: Embroidery is perfect for smaller logos or text, where the thread’s texture adds depth and richness to the design.

When to Choose Embroidery:

If you’re customizing apparel for a professional setting or need a high-end, sophisticated look, embroidery is the way to go. It’s also a great choice for smaller orders or if you’re looking for a more durable, long-lasting option. Embroidery is often used for hats, jackets, and polos, where the raised texture adds a nice touch.

Which is Best for Your Custom Apparel?

Choosing between screen printing and embroidery depends on several factors, including the type of design, the quantity of apparel you need, and the intended use.


For vibrant colors and cost-effectiveness in large orders, screen printing is the best choice. It excels in large, multi-color designs. For a professional look in smaller designs or quantities, embroidery is superior. Its durability and appeal suit business logos, uniforms, and accessories like hats or jackets.


Ultimately, both methods offer high-quality results, so the decision boils down to your specific needs and budget.

At Custom Trophy / Active Edge in Florence, KY, we have over 20 years of experience creating high-quality custom apparel through screen printing and embroidery. Whether you want to outfit your team or create personalized gifts, we can bring your vision to life. Contact us today to learn about our services and start your next custom apparel project.