Embroidery vs. Print: Which Is Better for a Sweatshirt or Tee?
An honest comparison
Not sure whether to choose embroidery or print for a sweatshirt or t-shirt? Both methods have their strengths, but they give a completely different look and durability. In this guide we compare them honestly, so you know what will work best for you.
- Embroidery is raised thread stitched into the fabric; print is a flat graphic on the surface.
- Embroidery wins on durability: it does not crack or fade.
- Print is better for large, multicolor graphics and photos.
- Write to us and we will recommend the right technique for your design.
How is embroidery different from print?
Machine embroidery is made of thread stitched into the fabric. It is raised, has a premium texture and real depth. Print is a graphic applied to the surface of the fabric (ink or film). It is flat, but it can show many colors and fine details.
Durability
This is where embroidery wins. Well-made embroidery does not crack or fade; it holds up to years of washing and still looks new. Print can crack, peel or lose color over time, especially cheap print.
How to wash embroideryWash your embroidered sweatshirt inside out in cold water (up to 86°F) and do not iron directly over the embroidery. That way it looks new for years.
Embroidered bestsellers
BestsellerAnatomical HeartEmbroidered anatomical heartShop now→
Kawaii CatsKawaii-style catsShop now→
Your Own TextYour words stitched in threadShop now→
One Word EmbroideryOne strong wordShop now→
Look and quality
Embroidery reads as premium quality: elegant, solid and more expensive-looking. It looks great on sweatshirts, hoodies and tees, especially as a small chest design. Print is better for large, multicolor graphics and photorealistic photos that simply cannot be reproduced in thread.
What to choose for what?
Cost and production time
Embroidery can cost a little more and the design has to be digitized first, but given how long it lasts, it is the better investment. At Koval Customs every item is made to order in the USA by our production partner: embroidered and printed apparel ships in 3–7 business days, and delivery within the US takes about 3–5 business days.
Why we love embroidery
Embroidery gives the best quality and durability, which is why so many of our designs are machine embroidered with premium threads. Browse personalized embroidered sweatshirts, sweatshirts with your own text or embroidered sweatshirts for couples.
When is print the better choice?
If you want a large, colorful graphic or a photorealistic photo, we also make t-shirts and sweatshirts with your own print. We will match the method to your design.
Embroidery or print: find out in 10 seconds
What do you want on your sweatshirt or t-shirt?
Click an answer and we will suggest a technique and show you products.
Real customer reviews of our embroidery and prints.
The gift was spot on. My daughter-in-law was surprised and happy, and everyone loved the sweatshirt. Thank you again for the great experience.Megan L. · Embroidered sweatshirt
Great communication with the seller and very fast production and delivery. A brilliant gift idea. Highly recommend!Amanda T. · Embroidered sweatshirt
Super fast order processing, and the quality is amazing. I don't think this will be my only order.Claire Z. · Printed t-shirt
The sweatshirt is great in both quality and looks. This is my second order from Koval Customs and I'm happy.Natalie J. · Embroidered sweatshirt
New here? Use code WELCOME10 for 10% off your first order.
Questions and answers
Will embroidery wash out?
No. Machine embroidery does not crack or fade. Wash inside out in cold water (up to 86°F).
Can I get my photo on a shirt?
Yes. For photos we recommend print, which shows every color and detail: see printed tees and sweatshirts. Complex, multicolor photos look best in print, and we are happy to advise.
Which is better as a gift?
Embroidery: it looks premium and lasts a long time. Perfect for an anniversary, Valentine's Day or Father's Day.
Not sure what to choose?
Write to us and we will recommend embroidery or print for your design. Browse our personalized embroidered sweatshirts and create something special.
Embroidered sweatshirts →
