When it comes to outfitting your team with branded workwear, the choice of customization method is crucial. Two of the most popular options – embroidery vs screen printing. Both techniques have their unique advantages and are suited to different types of uniforms and work environments.
At Harveys, we know that choosing the right method can make all the difference in the appearance, durability, and effectiveness of your workwear. In this article, we’ll explore the benefits of custom embroidery and screen printing, and help you decide which option is best for your workwear needs.
Custom embroidery: classic and durable
What is custom embroidery?
Custom embroidery involves stitching a design directly onto the fabric using thread. This technique creates a textured, raised pattern that is both elegant and durable. Embroidery is often used for logos, names, and other small designs on uniforms.
Benefits of choosing custom embroidery
- Professional appearance: Embroidery offers a sophisticated, high-end look that can enhance the perceived value of your brand. The three-dimensional texture of embroidered designs adds a tactile quality that can make logos and text stand out.
- Durability: Embroidered designs are exceptionally durable and can withstand repeated washing and heavy wear without fading or peeling. This makes embroidery an excellent choice for workwear that needs to last, such as uniforms for construction, hospitality, or healthcare.
- Versatility: Embroidery works well on a variety of fabrics, including thicker materials like polo shirts, jackets, hats, and aprons. It’s also ideal for smaller, intricate designs that require precision and detail.
- Colour longevity: The threads used in embroidery are typically resistant to fading, which ensures that the colours in your logo or design remain vibrant over time.
Professions best suited to custom embroidery
Custom embroidery is ideal for uniforms that require a polished, professional look and need to endure heavy use. It’s particularly well-suited for:
Corporate uniforms: Polos, dress shirts, and blazers that need to convey professionalism.
Hospitality workwear: Aprons, chef jackets, and server uniforms where durability and a refined appearance are important.
Trades and construction uniforms: Durable work shirts, jackets, and caps that need to withstand tough conditions.
Screen printing: Bold and cost-effective
What is screen printing?
Screen printing involves applying ink to fabric through a stencil (or screen) to create a design. Each colour in the design requires a separate screen, which is then layered onto the fabric. This method is widely used for creating bold, colourful prints on a variety of garments.
Benefits of screen printing
- The choice of vibrant colours: Screen printing produces vivid, eye-catching colours that can make your logo or design pop. It’s especially effective for larger designs with bold graphics and multiple colours.
- Cost-effective for large orders: For larger quantities of uniforms, screen printing is often more cost-effective than embroidery. The setup costs are offset by the ability to produce large runs of printed garments quickly and efficiently.
- Flexibility with design size: Unlike embroidery, which is best for smaller, detailed logos, screen printing can easily accommodate large designs that cover more significant areas of the garment. This makes it ideal for t-shirts, sweatshirts, and hoodies where the design is a focal point.
- Soft finish: Screen printing inks are absorbed into the fabric, resulting in a smooth, soft finish that doesn’t add texture to the garment. This is particularly comfortable for uniforms worn directly against the skin.
Professions best suited to screen printing
Screen printing is ideal for workwear that requires bold, eye-catching designs and is being produced in large quantities. It’s particularly well-suited for:
- Retail and promotional uniforms: T-shirts, hoodies, and sweatshirts that feature large, colourful designs.
- Sports team uniforms: Jerseys and warm-up gear that require bright logos and team names.
- Casual workwear: T-shirts and other lightweight garments that are worn in less formal work environments.
Which is the better choice for your workwear?
The choice between custom embroidery and screen printing depends on several factors, including the type of workwear, the design, your budget, and the intended use of the uniforms.
Choose custom embroidery if you need a professional, durable finish that will maintain its quality over time. It’s the better choice for corporate settings, hospitality, and any environment where the uniforms are subject to heavy wear and tear.
Choose screen printing if you’re looking for a cost-effective solution for large orders with bold, colourful designs. It’s perfect for casual or promotional workwear, sports teams, and any situation where the design is the main focus.
At Harveys, we are pleased to be able to offer our customers both custom embroidery and screen-printing services, so you can select the best option for your specific needs. Our team is here to help you design and create the perfect uniforms that not only represent your brand but also stand up to the demands of your workplace. Whether you need the timeless elegance of embroidery or the bold impact of screen printing, we’ve got you covered.
Feel free to contact us today, either through our website, email or by calling one of our friendly team on 0161 624 9535 with regards to any embroidery vs screen printing questions you may have.
