Embroidered vs Printed Logos on Branded Workwear - ColorCoded Workwear UK

Embroidered vs Printed Logos on Branded Workwear: Which Is Best for Your Business?

When investing in branded workwear or uniforms, one of the biggest decisions you’ll face is how to apply your logo. The two main methods - embroidery and printing - both have their strengths. The right choice depends on your brand’s needs, your industry, and how your garments will be used.

At ColorCoded Workwear, we specialise in both embroidered and printed logos across a full range of workwear, from polos and jackets to aprons, hoodies, and hi-vis gear. Let’s explore the differences, pros, cons, and when each option works best.

What Is Embroidery?

Embroidery uses coloured threads stitched directly into the fabric to create your logo or design. It’s a traditional, premium branding method that delivers texture, depth, and long-lasting quality.

✅ Pros of Embroidery:

• Durability: Embroidered logos can withstand frequent washing and wear, making them ideal for long-term use.

• Professional Finish: Adds a tactile, high-quality feel - perfect for brands that want to appear established and professional.

• Color Longevity: Thread colours don’t fade easily, even after repeated washing.

• Suitable for Various Fabrics: Works beautifully on polos, jackets, fleece, caps, aprons, and heavier materials.

• Premium Perception: Often associated with craftsmanship and quality - especially important in industries like hospitality, real estate, and corporate services.

⚠️ Cons of Embroidery:

• Less Suitable for Lightweight Fabrics: Fine garments like t-shirts or performance wear can pucker or distort under heavy stitching.

• Limited Detail: Tiny text or intricate graphics don’t always embroider cleanly.

• Higher Cost for Large Logos: Because pricing depends on stitch count, big or complex designs can be more expensive.

What Is Printing?

Printed logos use specialist heat transfers or direct-to-garment (DTG) inks to apply your design onto the surface of the fabric. Printing is fast, flexible, and ideal for bold, detailed artwork.

✅ Pros of Printing:

• Perfect for Detailed Designs: Ideal for small text, gradients, and full-colour logos that embroidery can’t replicate.

• Lightweight Feel: Doesn’t alter the fabric’s flexibility or weight - great for t-shirts, hoodies, and sportswear.

• Cost-Effective for Large Logos: Large prints often cost less than embroidered equivalents.

• Quick Turnaround: Ideal for short runs or promotional events where speed and affordability matter.

• Vibrant Colours: Printed designs can produce bright, accurate colour reproduction that pops.

⚠️ Cons of Printing:

• Less Durable Over Time: Frequent washing or exposure to heat can cause cracking or fading, especially on budget prints.

• Not Ideal for Heavy or Textured Fabrics: Works best on smooth surfaces; may not adhere well to thick fleece or coarse materials.

• Lower Perceived Value: Compared to embroidery, printed logos can appear less premium - especially in professional or corporate settings.

When to Choose Embroidery

Opt for embroidery if you want your uniforms to convey quality, longevity, and professionalism. It’s the go-to option for:

• Corporate uniforms (estate agents, office staff, customer service teams)

• Hospitality and catering (chefs, baristas, waiters)

• Trades and construction (where durability is key)

• Outerwear and caps (where thicker fabrics suit stitching)

Embroidery also performs better in outdoor or industrial environments, where workwear faces frequent washing, abrasion, and exposure to the elements.

When to Choose Printing

Choose printing when your design demands fine detail, flexibility, or bold colour. It’s often preferred for:

• T-shirts and hoodies (for events, casualwear, or promotional use)

• Sports and activewear (lightweight fabrics benefit from flexible prints)

• Short-term uniforms or campaigns (fast turnaround and cost-efficient)

• Creative or full-colour logos (that require gradients or photorealism)

Printing works especially well indoors or for businesses where uniforms are changed regularly - such as events, marketing activations, or casual hospitality teams.

Side-by-Side Comparison

Our Expert Recommendation

At ColorCoded, we usually recommend embroidery for permanent staff uniforms and printing for promotional or high-detail designs.
Many of our clients use a combination of both - for example:

• Embroidered logos on polos or jackets

• Printed graphics on t-shirts or hi-vis vests

This balanced approach delivers both durability and flexibility, depending on the garment and its purpose.

Final Thoughts

Whether you choose embroidery or printing, your branded workwear is an investment in your company’s image. Both methods can elevate your brand — the key is matching the right finish to your fabric, budget, and usage.

At ColorCoded Workwear we offer both embroidered and printed branding in-house, with expert advice to help you choose what’s best for your team.

💡 Ready to get started?
Explore our full range of branded workwear and uniforms or contact our team today for a free logo setup and quote.