Screen Printing vs. Embroidery: What’s Better for Work Uniforms?

Oct 8th 2025

When it comes to customizing work uniforms, two of the most popular options are screen printing and embroidery. Both methods can add logos, names, and department identifiers—but each offers different advantages depending on your budget, fabric type, and brand goals.

Embroidery involves stitching your design directly into the garment using high-quality thread. It's ideal for uniforms that require a professional, upscale appearance—like hotel staff apparel, housekeeping uniforms, or security shirts. Embroidery holds up extremely well over time, even after frequent laundering, and adds a tactile, premium look.

Screen printing, on the other hand, uses ink pressed through a mesh stencil to apply your design to the fabric’s surface. It’s a great option for bold, colorful logos on casual apparel like t-shirts or promotional items. While typically more cost-effective for large runs, screen printing may fade faster with repeated washes and isn’t always suitable for textured or heavyweight fabrics.

When choosing between the two, consider your garment type, how often it will be washed, and the image you want to present. For long-lasting uniforms that reflect professionalism, embroidery is often the preferred choice. For budget-conscious projects or short-term staff apparel, screen printing can be a practical solution.

At Sharper Uniforms, we offer both options and can help you decide which approach best suits your uniform program. Whether you need crisp logo embroidery on a blazer or large printed designs for event tees, our customization team is here to support your branding goals.

Customization Comparison:

Feature

Embroidery

Screen Printing

Appearance Professional, textured finish Smooth, graphic-oriented
Durability Excellent (long-term wear) Moderate (may fade over time)
Best for Uniform shirts, jackets, aprons T-shirts, lightweight garments
Wash resistance High Moderate
Cost-effectiveness Better for small orders Better for large batch runs

People Also Ask:

Q: Which lasts longer—screen printing or embroidery?
A: Embroidery generally outlasts screen printing, especially on garments that are washed and worn frequently.

Q: Is screen printing cheaper than embroidery?
A: Yes, screen printing is typically more cost-effective for larger orders, but embroidery provides better longevity and a polished look.

Q: Can I use both methods on the same garment?
A: In some cases, yes. For example, a logo might be embroidered while a slogan or graphic is screen printed, depending on garment material and design.