The short answer
Use embroidery for simple logos on caps, polos and jackets. Use screen printing for bold flat colours in larger runs. Use DTF for detailed or multicolour artwork in smaller runs. Use a woven label for a premium, tag-like finish.
Side by side
| Embroidery | Screen print | DTF transfer | Woven label | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Look | Stitched, textured | Flat, matte ink | Smooth, can be vivid | Fine, premium, tag-like |
| Fine detail | Limited | Good for flat shapes | Very good | Good on small logos |
| Colours | Limited by thread colours | Cost rises per colour | Full colour | Limited by yarn |
| Durability | Very durable | Durable | Good, depends on care | Very durable |
| Feel | Raised | Soft, thin | Slight film | Fabric |
| Best quantity | Small to large | Medium to large | Small to medium | Medium to large |
| Best for | Caps, polos, jackets | Tees, totes, hoodies | Detailed or multicolour art | Neck labels, sewn-on tags |
Embroidery
Thread is stitched into the fabric. It feels premium and lasts, but fine lines, gradients and very small text do not translate well. Flat embroidery suits clean shapes and lettering, while 3D (puff) embroidery gives a raised look for bold, simple forms.
Screen printing
Ink is pushed through a mesh stencil, one colour at a time. It is excellent for solid colours and larger runs, because the setup is the same whether you print 100 or 1,000. More colours mean more screens, so it is best with simple palettes.
DTF (direct to film)
The design is printed onto a film and transferred to the fabric. It handles photographic or multicolour artwork without per-colour setup, which suits smaller runs. It can feel slightly more like a layer on top of the fabric than screen print does, and wash instructions matter.
Woven labels and patches
Fine woven threads form a small label or patch that is sewn on. They look refined on neck labels, cap sides and pockets. They are a good way to show a detailed logo at a small size.
Choosing by product
| Product | Usually works best |
|---|---|
| Caps | Flat or 3D embroidery, or a patch |
| Heavyweight tees | Screen print, or DTF for detailed art |
| Hoodies | Embroidery for small chest logos, screen print or DTF for large |
| Canvas totes | Screen print for flat colour, DTF for detailed art |
| Socks | Woven or knitted into the sock |
| Aprons | Embroidery or a woven patch |
Preparing your artwork
- Send a vector file (AI, SVG or PDF) if you have one.
- Tell us the colours you want to match, ideally as Pantone references.
- Expect very thin lines and tiny text to be simplified for embroidery.
- For fine detail, ask about DTF or a woven patch.
See also where to place the logo and how to choose a cap.
Send us your logo and the product. We will recommend a method and show you a mockup.
Frequently asked questions
Which lasts longer, embroidery or print?
Embroidery is generally the most durable and does not crack or fade like some prints. Good screen prints also last a long time with normal washing.
What is DTF printing?
DTF stands for direct to film. The design is printed onto a film and heat-transferred to the fabric. It suits detailed or multicolour artwork in smaller runs.
Why is embroidery limited in colour?
Each colour needs its own thread, and very fine lines cannot be stitched cleanly, so complex logos are usually simplified or printed instead.
What file is best for printing or embroidery?
A vector file such as AI, SVG or PDF. If you only have a PNG or JPG, send it and we will advise.
