Printing vs Embroidery Explained

Embroidery vs Printing (DTF): What’s the difference?

Not sure which option is best for your business? Here’s a clear, no-faff breakdown to help you choose the right finish for your workwear or branded clothing.

Embroidery

Embroidery is a premium stitched finish that gives a smart, professional look—ideal for uniforms and corporate wear.

Best for:

Hats, polos, jackets, uniforms and corporate clothing

Small logos and simple designs

What to expect:

Premium, professional finish

Extremely durable (built to last the lifetime of the garment)

Common placements include left chest, sleeve and back (up to 26cm)

Thread colours only (no gradients)

Works best with simpler artwork

May feel slightly firmer on lightweight fabrics

Washing:

Wash up to 60°C

Can be tumble dried

Printing (DTF)

DTF (Direct to Film) printing is perfect for bold, detailed and full-colour designs—great for larger artwork and promotional clothing.

Best for:

T-shirts, hoodies, totes and promotional items

Large designs, graphics, photos and gradients

What to expect:

More casual finish compared to embroidery

Strong durability (though not quite as long-lasting as embroidery)

Pricing is based on print size

Can be placed anywhere on the garment, in any size

Unlimited colours with accurate colour matching

Handles intricate detail with ease

Minimal impact on comfort (unless the print is very large)

Washing:

Wash up to 40°C

No tumble drying

Need help choosing?

If you’re not sure what will work best for your logo, garments or budget, drop me a message and I’ll point you in the right direction.