Compare garment finishes
Compare ink layers, raised surfaces, stitches, pile and washed textures, with the mechanism and limitations of each technique.
Embroidery
3Graphics formed with stitches: compare flat thread surfaces, foam-backed relief and chenille loops.
- Embroidery
Flat embroidery
Thread follows a stitch path to form outlines or filled shapes on cloth. Satin stitches create continuous sheen, while fill stitches show directional texture. What to compare in the image Individual threads and turning points are visible. Unlike foam-backed 3D embroidery, flat embroidery has no added foam height; compared with chenille its surface is tighter and its contours finer. Properties and limitations Small lettering and dense fills require suitable thread, stitch density and backing. Check puckering and reverse-side comfort on thin or stretchy materials. External visual reference, not a factory sample. Image source: Custom Ink .
ApplicableDetailsLogos and line artwork on polos, shirts, sweatshirts and caps
Embroidery3D puff embroidery
Foam is commonly placed beneath the stitching and covered with thread to create raised letters or contours. What to compare in the image The angled example shows height, edge shadows and dense stitches. Puff print also creates relief, but 3D embroidery has a threaded surface; compared with flat embroidery the outline is thicker. Properties and limitations Broad strokes and enclosed shapes are useful starting points. Check exposed foam, end coverage and fabric support; small flat-embroidery lettering cannot always be reused unchanged. External visual reference, not a factory sample. Image source: ColDesi .
ApplicableDetailsRaised letters and simple emblems on caps and substantial garments
EmbroideryChenille embroidery
Looped or pile-like stitches create a plush surface, often combined with felt, borders or other stitches to form letter patches. What to compare in the image The reference shows overlapping loops with a towel-like texture. Compared with the aligned stitches of flat embroidery and the dense covering of 3D embroidery, chenille emphasises pile and volume. Properties and limitations Large letters and simple blocks are useful applications. Loops can obscure tiny text or fine lines; check loop security, borders and the patch attachment method. External visual reference, not a factory sample. Image source: Winslabel .
ApplicableDetailsLetter patches and decorative emblems on varsity jackets and sweatshirts