Screen Printing vs Embroidery Guide
In the competitive world of custom apparel, the two most popular decoration methods are screen printing and embroidery. Both techniques offer unique advantages and play a crucial role in branding, marketing, and personalization. At My Apparel Manufacturer, a leading apparel producer in China, we help USA and European brands understand these options so they can make the right decision for their products.
Whether you’re printing company logos, sportswear, or casual wear, this guide by My Apparel Manufacturer, one of the best garment manufacturers in China, explores every aspect of Screen Printing vs Embroidery — including costs, quality, durability, and best-use cases.
1. What Is Screen Printing?
Screen printing is a traditional yet versatile method that uses stencils (screens) to apply ink directly onto fabric. This technique delivers bold, vibrant, and long-lasting designs—perfect for large production runs.
How screen printing screens are made:
Screens are created using mesh fabric coated with light-sensitive emulsion. The design is then burned into the screen using UV light, allowing ink to pass only through specific areas.
Benefits of screen printing:
- Ideal for bulk orders.
- Works best on cotton, polyester, and blends.
- Produces vivid, long-lasting colors.
- Cost-effective for high-volume production.
Limitations:
- Not ideal for small runs due to setup costs.
- Limited color blending compared to digital printing.
Pricing insight:
If you’re wondering how much does it cost to make a shirt in China, screen printing is typically more affordable than embroidery for bulk orders. Prices vary depending on colors, fabric, and order size.
Industry insights:
China’s printing sector is massive, with screen printing companies in China and rotary Screen Printing vs Embroidery manufacturers in China leading the global supply. At My Apparel Manufacturer, we partner with high-quality screen printing factories in China to ensure every print is crisp, durable, and perfectly aligned with your brand’s identity.
2. Deep Dive: Embroidery
Embroidery is the art of stitching designs directly into fabric using thread. This method creates a textured, premium look that’s often used for uniforms, polos, and high-end apparel.
How it works:
Embroidery machines use digital patterns to sew thread onto fabric, layer by layer, forming your logo or design.
Advantages:
- Durable and long-lasting.
- Perfect for premium and professional apparel.
- Works great for small logos and textured branding.
Drawbacks:
- Costlier than screen printing.
- Limited color gradients and intricate detail compared to print.
Embroidery vs screen printing in cost:
While screen printing tends to be cheaper for bulk orders, embroidery adds a premium touch, especially for corporate or luxury items.
Embroidery market insight:
China and the USA are major players in embroidery production. Many screen printing & embroidery companies in China offer both services for versatility. At My Apparel Manufacturer, we specialize in combining embroidery precision with sustainable fabric choices.
3. Screen Printing vs. Embroidery: Making the Choice
Which one is better — screen printing or embroidery?
The answer depends on your brand’s goals, apparel type, and target audience.
| Feature | Screen Printing | Embroidery |
| Look & Feel | Smooth and flat | Textured and raised |
| Durability | Excellent for most fabrics | Outstanding for thicker materials |
| Cost (per item) | Lower for bulk orders | Higher for small runs |
| Detail level | Great for complex designs | Best for simple logos |
| Use cases | T-shirts, hoodies, activewear | Polo shirts, uniforms, caps |
When to choose screen printing:
- You need vibrant, large designs.
- Your order quantity is large.
- You’re targeting casual or activewear.
When to choose embroidery:
- You’re creating corporate apparel.
- You want a high-end, textured look.
- You’re using thick materials like fleece or polos.
At My Apparel Manufacturer, we guide brands on whether screen printing or embroidery suits their needs. With decades of experience in t-shirt printing companies in China and screen printing equipment manufacturing, we ensure superior results that align with your brand image.
4. Industry and Technology Insights
China remains the global hub for screen printing machines, embroidery units, and t-shirt printing factories. If you’re searching for screen printing machine manufacturers in China or shirt printing in China, My Apparel Manufacturer provides both OEM and ODM solutions tailored to your business model.
Modern advancements, such as LED screen printing technologies and eco-friendly inks, have improved quality and sustainability. Similarly, embroidery now integrates AI-driven precision tools, offering perfect stitching consistency for every piece.
5. Common Questions About Screen Printing and Embroidery
1. What is better — Screen Printing vs Embroidery?
Screen printing is better for bold, large designs, while embroidery is ideal for small, premium logos.
2. What is cheaper embroidery or screen printing?
Screen printing is typically cheaper for large orders due to lower setup and thread costs.
3. Can both be done on one garment?
Yes. Many brands use screen printing for main designs and embroidery for logos or accents.
4. Which lasts longer?
Both are durable, but embroidery tends to last slightly longer on thicker fabrics.
5. Does My Apparel Manufacturer offer both services?
Yes! As one of the best Chinese clothing manufacturers, we provide screen printing and embroidery solutions for global apparel brands.
6. Conclusion
Both screen printing and embroidery play essential roles in apparel branding and customization. The right choice depends on your product, design, and brand positioning.If you’re launching a new clothing line or upgrading your apparel designs, My Apparel Manufacturer offers expert consultation and end-to-end production in China — from fabric selection to decoration. Whether you need bulk t-shirt printing, premium embroidery, or custom hoodie branding, our team ensures your apparel stands out in the global market.
