Complete Guide: Prints vs. Embroidery Durability - Which Lasts Longer and How to Care for It

Prints vs. Embroidery Duration

You will find: Prints vs. Embroidery Durability, Care, Washing, Durability and FAQ

Prints and embroidery are two popular techniques for customizing streetwear, each with different aesthetic and technical characteristics. In this article, we'll look at the main differences, provide specific care tips for each, and compare their durability.

1.1 Prints

- Screen printing : application of ink via a screen, resistant and ideal for large print runs.

- Digital printing (DTG) : water-based inks printed directly onto fabric, perfect for complex but less durable designs.

- Thermal transfer : heat transfer of decals. Fast and versatile, but more prone to cracking.

1.2 Embroidery

- Machine embroidery : colored thread sewn into the fabric, giving a three-dimensional and precious effect.

- Embroidered patches : separate pieces embroidered and then applied with sewing or iron-on, versatile but with a potential detachment point.

2.1 Care of prints

1. Preparation : Turn the garment inside out to protect the printed surface.

2. Washing : machine wash at max 30°C, delicate program.

3. Detergents : Use delicate products or those specifically designed for colored garments; avoid bleach and whitening agents.

4. Drying : Hang dry in the shade, away from direct heat sources; do not use a dryer.

5. Ironing : Never iron directly on the print; protect with a cloth or turn the garment inside out.

2.2 Embroidery care

1. Preparation : Lay the garment flat and cover the embroidery with a light cloth.

2. Hand wash : cold water, neutral detergent, gentle agitation.

3. Washing machine : if essential, delicate program and maximum 30°C, garment inside out.

4. Drying : Lay flat, avoiding creases in the embroidery; do not tumble dry.

5. Ironing : at low temperature on the back of the embroidery, with a protective cloth.

Technique	Resistance to washing	Resistance to rubbing	Tendency to wear out
Screen printing	High	High	Low
DTG	Average	Average	Average
Thermal transfer	Low	Low	High (cracking)
Machine embroidery	Very high	Very high	Low
Embroidered patches	High	Average	Average (gap)

3.1 Duration factors

- Quality of materials (inks, threads)

- Washing frequency and method

- Exposure to sun and external agents

- For limited capsules : invest in high-quality embroidery.

- For large quantities : prefer screen printing.

- Articulated designs : digital printing.

Is hand washing mandatory for embroidery? You can use the washing machine on the gentle cycle only, but hand washing is always safer.

Do the colors of prints fade in the sun? Yes: it's best to dry them away from direct sunlight.

Prints and embroidery offer different looks and feelings: the key to making them last is following the correct care techniques. By applying these guidelines, your streetwear pieces will maintain their style and quality longer.