Introduction

An embroidered patch uses stitched threads to create a raised, textured design, while a printed patch uses ink or digital printing to apply the design onto fabric. Embroidered patches offer a classic, durable look, while printed patches are better for detailed images, gradients, and complex artwork.

Discussing differences between embroidered patch vs printed patch are really comparing two very dissimilar production methods which result in two very different products. The embroidered patch is created by stitching colored thread onto a fabric background creating a raised and textured surface. 

Both can be employed to show logos, emblems and designs, however they are produced is really quite different as well as how they feel and look.

This guide will not only explain the difference between embroidered patch vs printed patch, but it will also discuss the pros and cons of the different types of patches and which type might be right for you, your artwork, your budget and your brand.

1. What Are Embroidered and Printed Patches?

a) What Makes Embroidery Patches Different from Printed Patches

Embroidered patches are those which are stitched in the patchwork style, with a sewing machine, row after row of embroidery is sewn into the woven fabric base. Printed patches are designed and printed on a smooth fabric or vinyl surface, and do not require a build-up. So the difference between embroidered patch vs printed patch is pretty clear.
This is how each style is unique. Embroidery provides a textured dimensional effect that's visible to the stitches, whereas printing provides a smooth effect, photo-like finish, fine detail and endless colour gradations not replicated by thread.
Printed patches can support the small text, shading and gradients much better than the stitched thread, and embroidered patches offer a classic, tactile appearance that is considered to be the hallmark of quality and tradition.

b) Common Uses

The two types of patches are used in various sectors and communities including:

• Military units, veteran groups and/or service organizations that prefer the traditional embroidered appearance.
• Logos or patches for various purposes on corporate uniforms, workwear and staff clothing that tend to be printed with detailed logos or branding.
• In addition to the above, sports teams, clubs and schools will display their crest and mascot.
• Merchandise, promotional items and limited edition clothing.
• Patches, pins and badges collectors who collect pieces from various groups.

The format is primarily dictated by how the design will be put on (and taken off) the body, how often it will be washed, and how much detail the design will want to maintain when viewed at close range.

2. Embroidered Patch vs Printed Patch: What's the Real Difference?

a) What Are Embroidered Patches?

Embroidered patches are simply pieces of fabric, which are most often twill, embroidered with colored thread and bordered with a merrow or heat-sealed edge. The needle creates the design in raised layers, so that the design is textured and can be felt as well as seen.

This gives it:

• A three-dimensional feel to jackets, hats and bags that can be felt.A feel of that which stands from the surface of the jacket, hat and bag.
• A traditional and classic look, which is usually associated with sport, military and heritage brands
• Very durable, thread does not fade or peel over time

b) What Are Printed Patches?

Printing patches with printed patches is achieved by either dye sublimation or direct digital printing to a smooth fabric or vinyl style surface, and results in the complete patch design being reproduced with a high level of accuracy, including gradients, shadows and fine text.
Its features include:

• Gradients, small text and detailed artwork in photo realistic style.
• A smooth surface that is flat, not raised
• Lower maintenance requirements as a result of no stitching necessary
  

3. Embroidered Patch vs Printed Patch: Which Looks Better?

a) When You Want a Classic Look

When you're looking for a more classic look and feel, embroidery is typically the best choice, since:

• With the use of nature, thread can be used to create texture and depth that cannot be replicated through print.
• It is suitable for simple logos, bold letters and low detail crests.
• It is expected to be worn by military, scouting and many uniform patches.
• Takes a very long time to wash out and last in the outdoors.

b) When Detail Makes an Impact

Printed patches work better when used in a design that requires a lot of detail and/or colors because:

• Fine print, gradients and photographs remain clear and readable
• No restriction on colours used, no cost impact.
• Modernized branding is often found to be cleaner in print than in stitched thread – flat is often better than three-dimensional.

4. Key Difference Between Embroidery Patches vs Printed Patches: Common Things to Know

• Embroidery is tactile and raised, and print is flat and smooth
• There are variations in the manufacturing process, embroidery is sewn in thread by thread whereas print is laid down as an even layer.
• Bold shapes done in embroidery, fine detail & gradations done in print.
• Embroidery has a textured feel to touch, print is smooth like fabric or vinyl.
• Print may be more economical for highly detailed designs, embroidery may be more expensive when more stitches are added to the design.

5. Which Is Better, Printed or Embroidered?

a) When to Use Embroidery

• If you prefer a rich, high-end look and feel, the textured premium option is the perfect choice.
• If the design is relatively simple, then it's ok to use bold shapes or lettering.
• Wheatley is an ideal choice for use where durability and classic style are paramount.

b) When to Use Print

• If the artwork is detailed, shaded or has a large number of colors
• For detailed designs, when you have a limited design budget
• If you're looking for a sleek and contemporary look, opt for a smooth, modern finish.

c) So Which One Should You Choose?

Choosing embroidered patch vs printed patch depends on what you're drawing and what you want to do. Generally, a simple design with a few colors such as a logo or crest are ideal for embroidery, while a detailed, photo style design is ideal for printing. It's not a matter of what looks “fancier” but rather the matter of whether the format is the right one to match the design.

6. Which Is Picked in Different Use Cases?

• Military or Veteran Patch: Usually embroidered, it is expected of a patch to have a raised texture and classic appearance.
• Corporate Uniform Badge: Often produced, offers great detail of the logo and with multiple brand colors.
• Sports Team Crest: This is the type of embroidery that is often used to enhance the durability of the sport and is usually embroidered on objects that get washed often.
• Event Merchandise Patch: Designs are often detailed, printed and produced quickly, so they are often used in this product.

7. Pros and Cons of Embroidered Patches

a) Pros

• Tactile, premium quality surface that is textured and durable.
• Thread will not fade or discolor over time and with use.
• Traditional style that is suitable for uniforms, military clothing and traditional branding.

b) Cons

• It may be difficult to see fine detail, small text and gradients in stitching.
• The more stitches, the more expensive it will be.

8. Pros and Cons of Printed Patches

a) Pros

• Can create artwork with fine detail, photo style and gradients accurately.
• Typically quicker and less costly than making for intricate design
• A smooth flat finish is ideal for modern and minimal brandings.

b) Cons

• Does not have a raised tactile surface like embroidery does
• Print can easily wear out or fade more quickly than thread with heavy or rough use.
  

Conclusion

The main difference between embroidered patch vs printed patch is the texture and details of each type. Embroidery adds raised texture and a sense of traditional and durable texture; print adds a smooth surface that does a great job of reproducing fine detail and color. Consider how your artwork will look, your budget and how your patch will be worn and determine which format will best showcase the design.

FAQ’s

Q1: How long do embroidery patches last?

Answer: Embroidered patches have a long-life span as the embroidered thread is tightly bound into the fabric, which also does not fade, crack or peel as easily as most surface coatings.

Q2: Why are embroidered patches so expensive?

Answer: This price is the result of the stitching process. The more colors, the more detail and the higher the stitch count, the longer it takes to produce on the embroidery machine and the higher the cost is when compared with a flat print.

Q3: Does embroidery last longer than print?

Answer: Yes, in a lot of our daily lives. Fabric may be woven with thread as well and keep its strength and resist fading from washing, sunlight and from general wear and tear, while some printed finishes may fade or crack over time, depending on the fabric and the printing techniques employed.

Q4: Which is better, printed or embroidered?

Answer: It depends on the design – neither of the options is better overall. Embroidered patches are ideal for intricate pieces with detailed designs and colors, whereas printed patches work well for designs with fewer details and colors.