Not sure whether to use embroidery, screen printing, or heat transfer for your custom clothing? This simple Australian guide explains which method suits your logo, fabric, and budget. Perfect for small businesses, clubs, and tradies looking for professional-looking uniforms that last.

By My Promo Shop – Australian Garment Decoration Specialists

When you’re ordering custom workwear, uniforms, or branded clothing, the decoration method matters just as much as the garment itself. The right choice can make your logo look sharp and last longer. The wrong one can fade, peel, or damage the fabric.

This guide explains the main decoration methods used across Australia — embroidery, screen printing, and modern heat transfers — and helps you decide which one’s right for your needs.

---

1. Start with Three Key Factors

Before you pick a decoration style, think about:

• Fabric type: cotton, polyester, blends, fleece, or technical fabrics

• Logo design: simple text or detailed artwork with multiple colours

• Purpose and quantity: daily workwear, corporate uniforms, or short-run promotional gear

Different combinations need different methods to achieve the best finish.

---

2. Common Decoration Methods in Australia

Embroidery

Best for: Polos, caps, jackets, fleece
Look: Premium and textured — adds depth and professionalism
Pros: Tough, fade-resistant, long lasting
Keep in mind: Very small text or thin lines don’t stitch clearly on light fabrics

Screen Printing

Best for: Cotton T-shirts, hoodies, large bold designs
Look: Smooth and vibrant
Pros: Cost-effective for larger orders
Keep in mind: Polyester garments can bleed colour unless printed with special inks

Heat Transfers (Supacolour, DTF, TPU)

Best for: Cotton, polyester, blends, and high-performance fabrics
Look: Sharp and full-colour; great for detailed logos
Pros: Works on most fabrics and supports multi-colour artwork
Keep in mind: Needs correct heat and pressure for long-term durability

DTG (Direct-to-Garment)

Best for: 100% cotton garments with photographic or gradient prints
Look: Soft and natural finish
Pros: Perfect for small runs or unique designs
Keep in mind: Works best on cotton; less suitable for polyester

Combination Decoration

Some garments look best with a mix — like an embroidered logo on the chest and a printed graphic on the back. It’s about balancing durability, cost, and appearance.

---

3. Match the Method to Your Fabric

• Cotton: Screen print or DTG for full-colour designs; embroidery for structured pieces like polos and caps

• Cotton/Poly Blends: Screen print (with low-heat inks) or DTF transfers for finer details

• Polyester and Hi-Vis: DTF or TPU transfers to stop dye migration

• Softshells and Jackets: TPU transfers work best; embroidery only if the fabric is stable

• Fleece and Beanies: Embroidery is the most durable option

---

4. Match the Method to Your Logo

• Small text or fine detail: DTF or Supacolour transfers

• Large designs: Screen printing or DTF

• Left-chest and headwear logos: Embroidery

• Multi-colour or gradient logos: Heat transfers or DTF

---

5. Durability and Care

Each decoration method can last a long time with proper application and care. Embroidery and screen printing are proven workhorses, while modern transfers like Supacolour and DTF can match that lifespan when pressed correctly.

Care tips:

• Wash inside out in cold water

• Avoid bleach and fabric softeners

• Don’t iron directly on printed areas

---

6. Order Size and Budget

• Small runs (1–30 pieces): Heat transfer, DTF, or embroidery — no setup fees

• Larger runs (30+ pieces): Screen printing delivers the best value per unit

---

7. How My Promo Shop Helps

1. Tell us about your garment, fabric, logo, and order size

2. We’ll recommend the best decoration method for your job

3. You’ll get a proof before we start production

We’re based in Melbourne and deliver custom uniforms and promotional apparel Australia-wide.

Contact our team for expert advice on your next order.

---

8. Example Use Cases

• Tradie polos (poly blend): Embroidered chest logo with a Supacolour sponsor patch

• Event tees (cotton, 100+ units): Screen printed front and back

• Hi-vis polyester tees: TPU or DTF transfers for heat resistance

• Caps and beanies: Embroidery for a clean, lasting finish

---

Why It Matters

Choosing the right decoration method means your uniforms and branded gear look professional, feel comfortable, and stand the test of time. Whether you’re a small business, tradie crew, or community club, My Promo Shop can help you find the right solution — every time.

• Share on:
• WhatsApp
• Deel
• X
• Pin it
• Messenger
• Email

---