Table of Contents

• The Type Of Garment Matters
• Embroidery And Printing Costs
• Embroidery Is Best For Professionalism
• Screen Printing Doesn’t Have A Raised Texture
• Services From Bell Printing & Apparel 

Custom apparel embroidery and screen printing are two common options that are used to create branded clothing, custom designs, or matching family shirts. These two customization options can help you create a visually appealing piece that may spark a conversation or point people toward your business. Hats, shirts, pants, bags, and sweatshirts can be customized by either option, but is one better than the other? What about different fabrics, colors, or complicated designs? Let’s look at how each customization option can work for you.

The Type Of Garment Matters

The size of the clothing, the placement of the design, the type of fabric, and the size of your design can help you determine if embroidery or printing is the best choice. Larger items or large designs may take longer to embroider, especially if you have multiple colors in a design. Thicker fabrics or those with plastic may need to be embroidered if you want the design or wording to be permanent. 

Cotton fabrics absorb dye for a longer-lasting result. The color can sink into the fabric, rather than resting on top, making it long-lasting through washes, sweat, or grease. Fabrics like polyester or synthetic fabrics are better candidates for embroidery.

Printing a large or complicated design on an easily wrinkled fabric may produce bad results, even if it is completed by a professional apparel designer. Screen printing is a process that requires precision, but it may not last on certain clothing pieces or fabrics. Screen printing on a purse or jeans may not last as long as embroidery.

Embroidery And Printing Costs

If the clothing items you want to design can be easily designed with printing or embroidery, the choice may come down to cost. If you want to create multiple products for a business or family occasion, screen printing is a more cost-effective option. Embroidery costs can add up if you have a complicated design, multiple thread colors, or a bulk order. 

While embroidery may have a slightly increased cost, it is a more durable and long-lasting option. The closed thread stitches are used to create a long-lasting bond with the fabric. For blue-collar industries, embroidered shirts will last through rough work days. For accessories and travel bags, embroidery will remain intact in a larger suitcase and through airport security.

Embroidery Is Best For Professionalism

For garments or accessories that need to have a clean and professional appearance, embroidery is the best choice. The stitching has a professional appeal and will remain durable through many washes and wears. Embroidered designs are typically much smaller or used for less complex logos. Small pocket designs or words across the chest are where embroidery shines.

Small elements are best created with an embroidery machine. The small thread and needle will be able to create small lines, tiny lettering, or logos with curved edges. If you want a small design or company logo, embroidery will help the design be more recognizable.

Screen Printing Doesn’t Have A Raised Texture

For those on a budget, those with complex designs, or those who want a garment without texture, screen printing is the best choice. Printing allows you to utilize multiple colors, small design elements, and text, without sacrificing quality. Screen-printed shirts are common for seasonal promotions or large bulk orders that could become costly if embroidered. 

Small items that aren’t clothing, tote bags, some hats, and even blankets are good candidates for printing. Because the cost is lower, you may print larger designs on bulk items for a fraction of the cost. The cost per unit decreases with bulk orders, so screen printing can be optimal if you have a market, parade, or job fair where handing out branded swag is good for business. 

Services From Bell Printing & Apparel 

Our services and designs are here to get you noticed. No matter what type of printing or design you choose, Bell Printing & Apparel gets it done right, with the highest quality on the market. We have fast turnaround times because we have a dedicated team that is ready to listen to your ideas and concerns. From signs, clothing, promotional banners, to drinkware and tech accessories, we truly do it all. 

With over 70 years of experience, Bell Printing & Apparel can help you or your business achieve a professional and clean look. If you are not sure where to begin, our creative-minded team can help you customize, adjust, or design an option that fits your needs. Reach out to our dedicated team to see our past work, learn about our process, or get started on a project today!