Embroidery vs DTF vs screen printing vs vinyl
Embroidery vs DTF vs screen printing vs vinyl
Four ways to put your logo on workwear. Here is how they compare on finish, detail, garments and durability.
Updated
Quick answer
Embroidery gives a raised, premium finish that lasts and is the most popular choice for polos, softshells, fleeces and caps. DTF printing handles full colour and fine detail on almost any fabric, including hi-vis. Screen printing gives bold, vivid colour and suits large runs of the same design. Vinyl suits names and simple one or two-colour logos. We do all four in-house in Belfast.
Side by side
| Embroidery | DTF printing | Screen printing | Vinyl transfer | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Finish | Raised, textured thread | Smooth, flexible print | Bold, vivid ink | Clean, solid colour |
| Fine detail and gradients | Limited | Excellent | Limited | Limited |
| Number of colours | Several thread colours | Full colour | Works well with fewer colours | One or two colours |
| Polos | Most popular | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Softshells and fleeces | Most popular | Yes | Check with us | Yes |
| Hi-vis | Check with us | Yes | Check with us | Yes |
| Caps and beanies | Most popular | Check with us | Check with us | Check with us |
| Durability | Excellent, nothing to peel | Very good with the right care | Long-lasting | Dependable |
| Suits | Premium, permanent branding | Detailed, colourful logos and names | Large runs of the same design | Names and simple logos |
Prices and timings
The method does not change the price. On theworkwearco.com (UK, in pounds), an uploaded logo costs £9.99 setup plus £3.99 per position per garment, and a text logo has no setup fee and costs £3.99 per position. Euro prices are shown on theworkwearco.ie. Branded orders take 7–10 working days. If you choose print, our team picks the most suitable print method for your artwork and garment.
Branding questions
Which logo method lasts longest?
Embroidery, because the logo is stitched into the fabric and there is nothing to peel. Screen printing is also long-lasting.
Can you put a logo on hi-vis?
Yes, usually with DTF or vinyl. Logos must not cover too much visible material, so ask us before branding hi-vis.
How much does adding a logo cost?
On theworkwearco.com (UK, in pounds), an uploaded logo is £9.99 setup plus £3.99 per position per garment, and a text logo has no setup fee and costs £3.99 per position. Euro prices are shown on theworkwearco.ie.
How long do branded orders take?
Branded orders take 7–10 working days.
Ready to brand your team?
Choose your garments, upload your logo and we will do the rest in Belfast.
Official sources
Standards and site rules change. Always check the current edition, the product's declaration of conformity and your own risk assessment.
- The Workwear Co: Application methods explained: https://www.theworkwearco.com/pages/application-methods
- The Workwear Co: Customisation prices: https://www.theworkwearco.com/pages/customisation-prices