Imprint Methods: How Your Logo Gets on the Product

Choosing the right decoration method can make the difference between:

  • "looks premium and on-brand"
  • and "close enough, but not quite"

This page is for teams who want to:

  • choose the right method for their product category
  • understand how method impacts detail, feel, and timeline
  • avoid preventable quality surprises

PromotionalProducts.com offers custom products and services across decoration types (including screen printing, embroidery, and laser engraving) as part of its customization and gift offering.

What is an imprint (decoration)?

An imprint is the applied logo/design on a product. The method used depends on:

  • material (fabric, metal, plastic, paper)
  • durability needs
  • color/detail requirements
  • timeline and budget

Quick guide: which imprint method should I choose?

If you're decorating apparel

  • Embroidery: great for polos, hats, jackets; premium texture.
  • Screen printing: great for tees and larger graphics; strong value for bulk.

If you're decorating drinkware or metal items

  • Laser engraving: etched, durable, often premium look.
  • Screen printing: possible on many items depending on coating/material.

If you're decorating bags, totes, and fabric accessories

  • Screen printing: common and cost-effective
  • Embroidery: works on some fabric areas depending on product design

Screen printing: what it is (and what it's best for)

Screen printing uses a mesh/screen to apply ink through a stencil-like process. Britannica describes screen printing (serigraphy) as forcing ink through a mesh screen onto the surface to be printed.

Best for

  • bold logos
  • larger imprint areas
  • high quantity runs
  • simple, high-contrast designs

Watch-outs

  • tiny text can fill in
  • gradients and photo detail are method-dependent
  • exact color matching varies by ink/material

Embroidery: what it is (and what it's best for)

Embroidery applies your design with stitched thread.

Best for

  • polos and hats
  • premium corporate apparel
  • long-lasting wear

Watch-outs

  • tiny details may simplify
  • gradients aren't "printed" like ink
  • digitizing is required (a setup step)

Laser engraving: what it is (and what it's best for)

Laser engraving uses a laser to etch the design into the product surface; Wikipedia notes it involves using lasers to engrave by removing material from the surface.

Best for

  • metal drinkware
  • executive gifts
  • durable branding (doesn't rub off like ink can)

Watch-outs

  • engraving "color" is often the material contrast (not full-color)
  • some surfaces have limitations based on coating and shape

How imprint method affects lead time

Decoration method can impact:

  • setup steps (screens/digitizing)
  • production cycle time
  • proof and approval needs

If you're ordering close to a deadline, pick products and methods that fit your timeline. PromotionalProducts.com offers rush service options for eligible items.

> Rush Orders & Lead Times

FAQs about imprint methods

It depends on the product and audience:

  • embroidery often feels premium on apparel
  • engraving often feels premium on metal gifts
  • high-quality screen printing can look premium when well executed

Embroidery uses thread colors; full-color gradient reproduction is limited. If you need photo-like detail, ask about alternative methods on the product type.

Screen printing (for many products) and embroidery (for apparel) are common. For metal items, engraving can be ideal.

Yes. Different methods have different setup steps and cost drivers.

> See: Pricing & Setup Fees

Tiny text may not reproduce well in embroidery or some print methods. Ask for recommendations or simplification options during proofing.

> Artwork & Proof Approval

Not always—engraving appearance depends on the material and coating. It often shows as a tone/contrast rather than a printed ink color.

Start with:

  • a vector logo file
  • PMS references where relevant
  • consistent proof review process

Related terms (mini-glossary)

  • Imprint area: the printable location and maximum size
  • Digitizing: embroidery setup step
  • Setup fee: one-time production setup cost
  • PMS: standardized color reference
  • Vector file: scalable logo format

Not sure which method fits your logo?

Share your logo file and the product you're considering. A quick recommendation can prevent multiple proof rounds.

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