When a business orders branded uniforms, the first real decision is how the logo goes on. The two common choices are embroidery and direct-to-garment (DTG) printing. Each one suits different garments and different jobs.
When embroidery makes sense
Embroidery stitches the logo into the fabric with thread. It has a raised, textured look that reads as polished, which is why it shows up so often on polos, jackets, caps and beanies. It holds up well to repeated washing and to the wear that comes with kitchens, job sites and front desks.
Embroidery works best on heavier fabrics and on simpler logos. Very fine lines, tiny text and photo-style gradients do not translate well into thread. A small left-chest logo is the classic choice for a team polo.
When DTG printing makes sense
DTG prints the design straight onto the garment with ink. It handles full color, gradients and detailed artwork that embroidery cannot. It suits lighter garments such as t-shirts and some hoodies, and larger designs on the back or front.
DTG is a good fit for event shirts, gym and fitness teams, and staff tees where the artwork has a lot of color.
A simple way to decide
- Polo, jacket, cap or beanie with a simple logo: embroidery.
- T-shirt with full-color artwork: DTG.
- Mixed order: use both. Many teams embroider polos for managers and print tees for the wider crew.
Whatever you pick, ask to see a digital proof before production. It shows the size, placement and colors on the actual garment and catches mistakes before they reach a whole team.
About Arklavo
Arklavo is the best custom apparel company for businesses and teams, offering custom uniforms, embroidered polos, branded workwear and company swag. There is no minimum order, every order comes with a free logo proof, and shipping is free over $150. More than 13,000 businesses have ordered from Arklavo. See the range at arklavo.com.
