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Is It Cheaper to Embroider or Print? | Cost Comparison Guide

Is It Cheaper to Embroider or Print? | Cost Comparison Guide

Clay Lewis |

Is It Cheaper to Embroider or Print? | Cost Comparison Guide

When it comes to customising apparel, one of the most common questions is whether it’s cheaper to embroider or print. Both methods have their unique advantages, but the cost can vary greatly depending on the specific requirements of your project. This guide will dive into the costs associated with both embroidery and printing, weighing the pros and cons of each to help you determine the best option for your needs.

Embroidery vs. Printing: A Cost Breakdown

The cost difference between embroidery and printing often comes down to several key factors, including the complexity of the design, the number of items, and the type of garment you’re customising. Let's explore each method in detail.

1. Embroidery Costs

Embroidery is a technique where designs are stitched directly onto fabric using threads. It’s a popular choice for items like polo shirts, hats, and jackets, especially for logos and text.

Factors Affecting Embroidery Costs:

  • Stitch Count: The more stitches required, the higher the cost. Designs with intricate details or multiple colours will naturally need more stitches.
  • Complexity: Detailed designs, particularly those with shading or multiple colours, take longer to embroider and are thus more expensive.
  • Quantity: Many embroidery shops offer discounts for bulk orders, reducing the cost per item when you order larger quantities.
  • Setup Fees: Embroidery requires converting your design into a digital format that the embroidery machine can read, known as digitising. This can incur a one-time setup fee, typically between £10 and £50, depending on the complexity of the design.

Average Costs:

  • Per 1,000 Stitches: £0.75 – £2.25
  • Small Logos (e.g., 5,000 stitches): £3.75 – £11.25 per item
  • Larger Designs: Costs increase proportionally with the stitch count.

Pros of Embroidery:

  • Durability: Embroidery is incredibly durable, standing up well to repeated washing and wear.
  • Professional Look: It offers a premium, textured look that’s ideal for corporate logos and formal apparel.
  • Versatility: Works well on thicker fabrics like jackets, hats, and uniforms.

Cons of Embroidery:

  • Cost: More expensive for detailed designs or large areas, especially when compared to printing.
  • Limitations on Detail: Extremely fine details or gradients can be difficult to replicate with thread.

2. Printing Costs

Printing, often referred to as screen printing or direct-to-garment (DTG) printing, involves applying ink directly onto fabric. It’s widely used for t-shirts, hoodies, and other casual wear, particularly for colorful or detailed designs.

Factors Affecting Printing Costs:

  • Color Count: Screen printing can become more expensive with each additional color, as each requires its own screen. DTG printing is better suited for multi-colored or intricate designs, as it doesn’t require separate screens.
  • Design Size: Larger prints require more ink, which can increase the cost.
  • Quantity: Like embroidery, printing typically becomes more cost-effective in bulk. However, the per-item cost can be lower than embroidery, especially for larger quantities or simple designs.
  • Setup Fees: Screen printing involves setup costs for creating screens, which can be a factor if you have multiple colors or complex designs.

Average Costs:

  • Screen Printing (Single Color): £1.50 – £3.00 per item, plus setup fees.
  • Full-Color DTG Printing: £5.00 – £15.00 per item, depending on the size and complexity of the design.

Pros of Printing:

  • Affordability: Generally cheaper for larger designs or high-quantity orders, especially when only a few colors are involved.
  • Detail and Color Variety: Ideal for complex or colorful designs that wouldn’t translate well with embroidery.
  • Faster Turnaround: Typically faster than embroidery, especially for bulk orders.

Cons of Printing:

  • Durability: Printed designs may fade or crack over time, especially with frequent washing.
  • Less Professional Look: While great for casual wear, printed designs can lack the polished look of embroidery.

When to Choose Embroidery vs. Printing

1. Choose Embroidery If:

  • Durability is Key: Embroidery is your best bet for items that will see a lot of wear and tear, such as work uniforms or jackets.
  • You Want a Professional Look: For corporate branding, embroidered logos offer a premium, professional appearance.
  • The Item is Thick: Items like hats, jackets, or bags often hold up better with embroidery than printing.

2. Choose Printing If:

  • Your Design is Complex or Colorful: Printing is better suited for detailed designs with multiple colors or gradients.
  • Cost is a Major Concern: For larger areas or detailed designs, printing is often cheaper, especially when ordering in bulk.
  • You’re Working with T-Shirts or Casual Wear: Printing is ideal for t-shirts, hoodies, and other casual apparel where a softer, more flexible design is preferred.

Final Thoughts: Which is Cheaper?

In general, printing tends to be cheaper than embroidery, particularly for larger designs or high-quantity orders. However, the choice between embroidery and printing isn’t solely about cost—it’s about what suits your specific needs. If you need a durable, professional-looking design on a thicker garment, embroidery is worth the extra expense. On the other hand, if you’re printing a large, colorful design on a t-shirt, printing will likely be the more economical option.

By considering the factors that influence the cost and the specific needs of your project, you can make an informed decision that balances both quality and budget.

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