Print or Embroidery — Which is Best for Your Workwear?

When it comes to workwear, one of the key decisions you’ll need to make is whether to go for print or embroidery. Both have their advantages and disadvantages, and the choice will ultimately come down to your specific needs and preferences. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the pros and cons of each option to help you make an informed decision for your new gear.

Embroidery: Classic, Professional and Durable

Embroidery has been a popular choice for workwear for many years, and for good reason. It’s a classic, professional-looking option that can really elevate the look of your team. One of the biggest advantages of embroidery is that it’s incredibly durable. The stitching is tough and can withstand multiple washes, making it a great choice for workwear that will be worn frequently.

Another advantage of embroidery is that it looks high-end and professional. Whether you’re looking to create a branded uniform bundle for your team or you want to add your company logo to a t-shirt or hoodie, embroidery is a great way to achieve a polished, put-together look. Plus, embroidery can be done on a wide range of fabrics, including denim, cotton, and polyester, so you can find a solution that suits your needs.

Unless there is a too difficult logo to replicate with stitching we will commonly recommend trades to opt for embroidered workwear. A common bundle is our custom trades workwear pack.

However, there are some downsides to embroidery. One of the biggest is that it can be expensive, as there is a set-up charge to turn your logo into stitches (digitisation fee – £15). Additionally, embroidery can be a bit bulky, which may not be ideal if you’re looking for a more streamlined look. Finally, because embroidery is a bit more complex than printing, there may be a longer lead time to get your finished products.

Printing: Versatile and Affordable

If you’re looking for a more affordable option that still looks great, printing may be the way to go. We mostly use DTF technology for printing on garments but it has its own unique advantages and disadvantages, but they all offer a few key benefits over embroidery.

One of the biggest advantages of printing is that it’s incredibly versatile. You can create intricate designs, use a wide range of colours, and print on a variety of fabrics. This makes it a great choice if you’re looking for something that’s a bit more creative or eye-catching. Additionally, because printing is typically done using a machine, it’s usually a faster process than embroidery, so you can get your finished products more quickly.

Printing is also generally more affordable than embroidery as there is no set-up fee at all. However, there are some downsides to printing to consider. For example, some types of printing can be less durable than embroidery, particularly if the printed area is subjected to a lot of wear and tear. 

Tips for Getting the Best Results

No matter which option you choose, there are a few tips to keep in mind to ensure you get the best results possible:

• Choose a high-quality design: Whether you’re going for embroidery or printing, the quality of your design will play a big role in the final result. We can help with this.
• Consider placement: Think carefully about where you want your design to be placed on your workwear. This will depend on the type of garment you’re using, as well as the size and shape of your design.
• Work with a professional: While you can certainly try your hand at DIY printing or embroidery, working with a professional can ensure you get the best possible results. A professional will have the experience and equipment necessary to create a high-quality finished product. We can help with this.
• Test and review: Finally, make sure to test and review your finished products before making a final order. This will ensure that you’re happy with the quality and that everything looks the way you intended.

Making the Decision: What to Consider (TL;DR)

So, which option is best for your workwear needs? Ultimately, the decision will depend on a few key factors:

• Budget: If you’re working with a limited budget, printing may be the more affordable option. However, if you have a bit more room in your budget, embroidery can be a great investment.
• Design: If you’re looking to create something that’s intricate or eye-catching, printing may be the way to go. However, if you’re looking for something classic and professional, embroidery is a great choice.
• Durability: If your workwear will be subjected to a lot of wear and tear, embroidery may be the better option. However, if you’re looking for something that’s a bit more lightweight and flexible, printing may be the way to go.

• Lead time: If you need your finished products quickly, printing may be the faster option. 
• Garment type: Finally, consider the type of fabric you’ll be using. Embroidery can be done on a wide range of fabrics, but it may not be ideal for thinner or more delicate fabrics (for example football t-shirts). Printing, on the other hand, can be a bit more versatile in terms of the types of fabrics it can be used on.

Ultimately, deciding between printing and embroidery will come down to your specific needs and preferences. However, both options can be great choices for workwear.