Print vs. Embroidery: Which is Best for Your Custom Workwear?

Choosing between print and embroidery is one of the biggest decisions when ordering custom workwear. If you’re ordering your first set of workwear and aren’t sure how best to add your logo? Don’t fear, we know all the top tips to make an embroidered or printed logo really stand out and work with the uniform! Everyday at Penguin Uniform we see a wide range of unique logos and understand that the best choice depends on both the fine details of your logos and the different kind of fabrics you want to use. 

What are the benefits of embroidery for workwear?

Embroidery is considered the premium style for professional branding because of its 3D texture and longevity. With the logo stitched directly into the fabric with high-quality threads, an embroidered logo can withstand industrial washing and wear without fading or peeling. It is the ideal choice for left-chest logos on polo shirts, knitwear, and softshell bodywarmers where a smarter look is required.

What are the benefits of print for workwear?

The primary benefits of Direct-to-Film (DTF) Printing are versatility and weight. Printing allows for vibrant, high-contrast colours and works well for large-scale branding, such as a company name across the back of a sweatshirt or hi-vis vest. Unlike embroidery, print doesn't add weight or "pull" on thinner fabrics, making it the perfect choice for lightweight t-shirts and sportswear.

Is embroidery more professional than print?

Embroidery is traditionally a more formal brand image and is the go-to for hospitality, healthcare, and office uniforms. This only works however if your logo fits an embroidered style. A good looking print especially from our DTF will look far more professional than an ilegible embroidery. Our team will always tell you honestly if your logo is better suited to one method.

Can you embroider detailed logos or small text?

Embroidery has limits dictated by the thickness of the needle and thread. As a guideline, text smaller than 5mm or extremely fine lines can become difficult to read when stitched. If your logo features intricate detail, thin scripts, or gradients, printing is usually the better option. Printing captures every pixel of your artwork, ensuring that even the smallest tagline remains crisp and legible. We can of course create an embroidery friendly version of your logo with altered colours and style but understand your logo is the heart of your brand and alterations even subtle ones are not always an option. 

Is printing cheaper than embroidery for custom logos?

Yes printing is cheaper than embroidery mainly due to the work involved from both a design and production point of view. At Penguin Uniform adding a standard print will cost £4.50 and a standard embroidery equals £4.95. If you are ordering a large amount of kit the price difference can be noticeable however for small to medium orders the 45p difference wont add up to much. We are also well known for our bundle deals of which almost all come with a FREE logo included in the offer and normally FREE setup.

Can I mix print and embroidery on the same uniform?

Mixing print and embroidery is often the smartest method to brand your workwear. Many of our customers at Penguin Uniform use this Hybrid approach: an embroidered logo on the left chest paired with a large print on the back for maximum visibility. This works brilliantly for trades, construction and corporate uniforms that primarily use t-shirts, hi-vis vests and midlayers like ¼ zips. The Hybrid approach gives you the durability of stitching at the front and the detailed printing for your larger logo on the back.

Which branding method should you choose?

The right choice for your custom workwear depends on your industry, your garment choice, and your logo's detail. If you are looking for a premium style that lasts, embroidery is the best choice. If you need big, bold branding, printing is the way to go.

Still undecided? Our Sales Team is happy to talk you through the options in more detail and review your artwork to recommend the best process for your needs. Contact the Penguin Uniform Team today for a custom quote or read our frequently asked questions for more expert advice.