Choosing Between Embroidery and Screen Print

 

When it comes to implementing designs onto different fabrics, you're faced with two options: embroidery and screen-print. Which one is better, and which one should you choose? Well, in this article, we'll compare both to help you decide which one you should opt for:

 

1. Durability

 

When it comes to durability, embroidery is usually the best in this department. That's because when you embroider a piece of fabric, you stitch another material right onto the original material. On the other hand, when it comes to screen-printing, as you might be able to tell from its name, the print is printed onto the fabric.

 

One of the biggest durability problems with screen-printing is the fact that the printed design will crack, fade, and start to peel off over time. Plus, if it is ironed on or improperly washed, it can ruin the fabric altogether. However, embroidered products do not have to worry about those problems at all. The only real issue you might face with embroidery that you won’t face with screen-prints is the fact that the stitching can get caught on something else and damage it, albeit this situation is quite rare.

 

2. Cost

 

If you're looking for which option would be a cheaper route, then we’ll tell you now: there isn't one option that will always be cheaper. Many factors contribute to the final price, from the complexity of the design to the location you want to design to be put on. In other words, one might be cheaper for a certain application, while another might be cheaper for another application.

 

If you want an option that will guarantee that you will save money, purchase fabrics that are premade. Having your fabrics customized usually means paying a little extra. However, because premade fabrics aren't custom embroidered or screen-printed on, the prices of these will generally be cheaper.

 

3. Application

 

When it comes to application, both screen-printing and embroidery are used in many ways.

 

If you're working with thinner and cheaper garments, screen-printing is the way to go. That's because, unlike embroidery, you're simply printing the design onto the piece of cloth. If you were to opt for embroidery, however, you run the risk of damaging the thin fabric.

 

If you have thicker and more expensive pieces of fabric, then you'd want something more durable. If that’s the case, then it’s best that you choose embroidery.

 

Conclusion

 

Put simply, there isn't a one-stop-shop when it comes to choosing between embroidery and screen-printing. The choice between the two will always depend on different factors, mainly the ones we've listed above.

 

As such, if you want to put a design on clothes that are made of cheaper fabrics, screen-printing is the way to go. Chances are, by the time the prints start to show signs of wear and tear, the fabric itself is also doing so. However, if you’re working with thicker, more expensive materials, then embroidering is the smarter option. Not only is it more durable, but it is less prone to show signs of ageing.

 

Are you looking for a custom embroidery or screen printing service in Canada? Get in touch with today and let us know how we can help you.