Garment decoration dechniques: Pros and Cons
In the corporate apparel industry, choosing the right decoration technique is essential to properly reflect your brand image. Whether it’s for a t-shirt, hoodie, cap, or other apparel, here’s an overview of the main techniques used, along with their advantages and limitations.
1. Embroidery
Description: A stitching technique where the logo is reproduced with thread on the fabric.
Pros:
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Durable and wash-resistant
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Premium, high-end look
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Ideal for polos, shirts, jackets, and caps
Cons:
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Higher cost, as pricing is based on the number of embroidery stitches (the more stitches, the higher the price)
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Less detailed for small text, complex graphics, or full-color designs
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May wrinkle or pucker slightly after multiple dryer cycles
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More limited in Pantone color matching, since it depends on the available thread colors
Minimum order: 12 units
2. Screen Printing
Description: Ink is applied through a stencil directly onto the fabric.
Pros:
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Very cost-effective for large quantities and large graphics
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Bright and accurate colors (Pantone matching available)
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Ideal for t-shirts, hoodies, and crewnecks
Cons:
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Less durable than embroidery
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High set-up fees (screens) for small runs, resulting in higher unit costs
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Can crack after multiple washes
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Not suitable for gradients or overlapping colors
Minimum order: 24 units
3. Direct-to-Garment Printing (DTG)
Description: The design is printed directly onto the garment using a specialized printer.
Pros:
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Excellent for complex or full-color (CMYK) designs
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Ideal for small quantities
Cons:
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Less durable than screen printing
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Works best on light-colored cotton fabrics
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Pricing is based on print size (per square inch/cm²) – the larger the graphic, the higher the cost
Minimum order: 12 units
4. Heat Transfer (DTV)
Description: The design is printed on a film and then heat-pressed onto the garment.
Pros:
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Versatile, works on many types of garments
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Good image quality and decoration finish
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Very flexible, allows for small runs at a reasonable cost
Cons:
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Less durable than embroidery
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May crack or peel over time
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Pricing is based on print size (per square inch/cm²) – larger graphics are more expensive
Minimum order: 12 units
5. Sublimation
Description: Ink is heated at high temperature to penetrate the fibers of the fabric (best on white polyester).
Pros:
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Infused into the fabric, making it extremely durable
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Smooth finish with no raised texture
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Ideal for complex visuals and full garment designs
Cons:
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Requires light or white polyester fabric
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Not compatible with cotton
Minimum order: 25 units (for sublimated apparel)
6. Patches, Labels & Badges
Description: Prefabricated logos sewn or heat-applied onto the garment.
Pros:
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Vintage or premium corporate look
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Easy to reposition or replace
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Adds texture and a 3D effect
Cons:
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Costly for small custom runs
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May affect comfort depending on fabric and placement
Minimum order: 12 units
Conclusion: Which Technique Should You Choose?
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For a premium and durable finish → Embroidery
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For large runs with vibrant colors at lower cost → Screen Printing
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For individual personalization or small runs → Heat Transfer
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For detailed prints on cotton → DTG / Heat Transfer
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For polyester garments with full-coverage graphics → Sublimation
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For a vintage or retail-inspired style → Patches, Labels & Badges
Final Thoughts
Each garment decoration technique has its strengths and limitations. The right choice depends on the type of fabric, the design, the order volume, and most importantly, the brand image you want to convey.
At SOBEZONE, we know this decision can feel complex. That’s why our team is here to guide you toward the most suitable solution for your needs, whether it’s giving your polos a premium look, producing high-volume t-shirts, or customizing high-performance sportswear.
With our expertise and support, you are assured of choosing the decoration method that will showcase your brand at its best.
Contact us for proposals tailored to your projects!
