Modern embroidery is completely different from hand embroidery. It’s a quick process that is done by automatic machines. These machines have a backend programming to read digital embroidery files and create designs over the garment. These commercial embroidery machines work with 12 or more sewing heads. Each sewing head comprises 15 needles allowing 12 items to be embroidered simultaneously. These machines can also use up to 15 thread colors to make a logo.
The first process of embroidered printing is to make a digital designs file for the company’s logo. This process is called digitizing. For
logo digitizing you can hire a good online digitizer like “custom digitizing”. They can quickly
digitize a cap logo or
left chest logo for you for as low as $1 per 1000 stitches. Once digitizing is done, the embroidery file is uploaded to the embroidery machine to stitch it up. The garments are hooped and loaded manually to the machine by an operator.
In case of color printing, there are manual as well as semi automatic processing available. Making one logo requires a mixture of several different inks. Some of these are cheaper while others are expensive. Modern printing is also automated just like modern embroidery. Besides, it also needs vector art creation.
What is the Difference Between Screen Printing vs. Embroidery
Embroidery is one of the most ancient methods to decorate garments. During an archeological excavation, it was revealed that embroidery is as old as 30,000 BC. The Bayeux Tapestry over 200 ft in length and around 50 centimeters in height is the largest embroidery in the world.
Machine embroidery digitizing was first introduced in 1828 by Josue Heilmann and the industry has now changed the trend of clothes by launching embroidery machines with 7500 stitches in one square inch of space.
Screen printing is also not new. It was present back then as long as 960 CE during the Song Dynasty in China and was used to print money. Unlike embroidery printing, screen printing is applicable to wood, gold, plastic, electronics, etc. The first shirt comprising screen printing was known as Wizard of Oz.
Application Difference Between Embroidery Vs Screen Printing
Though both logo printing methods are appropriate, your choice depends on a number of factors like which one is better for heavier garments, and what goes for lighter ones. Embroidery is ideal for heavy garments as the thinner garments get ripe off easily, there is no use in applying embroidery on them.
Thinner fabric tends to pick when embroidered therefore if you are looking to embroider a logo go for a thick, high-quality uniform material. Screen printing on the other hand doesn’t require the fabric to be tough. Screen printing is also an optimum preference for T-shirts and other stretchy garments as it does not create tension as embroidery does.
Therefore, embroidery is better for uniform and high-quality fabric, while screen printing is best for larger logo printing on T-shirts and hoodies.
Durability Comparison of Embroidery Vs Screen Printing
It is another major factor to keep a check on. Screen-printed design is printed on top of the fabric that fades and goes away. Embroidery is directly stitched into the fabric and is more likely to stay longer than the screen-printed design.
This makes embroidery more durable than screen printing as screen printing design has another issue that begins to crack after some time. Since screen printing does not require the fabric to be premium, people do not care much to wash it carefully. This damages the ink and it fades away or begins to show signs of damage faster than embroidery.
Another drawback of screen printing is that it could be ruined right away when put into the washing machine at the wrong temperature or iron just at the top of the print. Embroidery does not have such issues except the stitching can be damaged occasionally.
Embroidery is not only durable but also creates a design with a nice amount of weight making it more sophisticated and longevity. The design with strong bright color threads shows how beautiful a 3D logo becomes.
Cost Difference Between Embroidery and Screen Printing
Whether for an entrepreneur or a businessman, cost is the major cause of concern. When you are about to accessorize or customize your garments you would like to have it done more and better while spending minimum from your pocket. You would avoid overspending.
You need to understand that neither of the two is cheaper. The cost-effectiveness of each depends upon a number of factors like the type of fabric you have, the complexity of the design, the size of the design, and the quality of ink, thread, and fabric.
In screen printing, the number and quality of colors make a big difference as each new color requires a new mesh screen raising the cost. Contrary to this, the embroidery has a flat rate for design without depending upon how many colors are used.
Embroidery also allows you to enjoy up to 15 colors with no extra cost and screen printing lets you have the benefit of cheaper cost with larger logos or
outsource embroidery for bulk orders.
Which One is More Suitable?
So keeping everything in mind when it comes to the sustainability of each method, the answer depends upon the garments being decorated. As embroidered items are considered as the most prestigious, it is best for both business and polo shirts. It also looks good on caps, T-shirts, and other outerwear.
Screen printing serves best for lightweight garments and prevents the puckering of the fabric around the logo. It also does not create tension in the fabric keeping a softer handle on suits, making it a better option for daily use.
Conclusion
Both embroidery and screen printing are equally in demand. The choice of a user depends upon his budget and preferences. Each one of these methods comes with benefits and drawbacks, so choose wisely while keeping your needs in mind.
