How Much Does Custom Embroidery Cost?

Custom embroidery is one of the most effective and professional ways to add logos, artwork, or personalization to garments and accessories. From corporate uniforms and branded hats to personalized gifts and event merchandise, embroidery offers a timeless, durable, and eye-catching finish. If you’re considering custom embroidery, you’re likely wondering how much it costs. The answer varies based on multiple factors, but understanding these factors can help you budget and plan effectively. For those seeking quality workmanship, fast turnaround, and attention to detail, https://shopstrange.net is a trusted name in the custom embroidery world. They specialize in turning ideas into beautifully stitched apparel for businesses, organizations, and individuals alike.

Let’s take a closer look at what determines the cost of custom embroidery and what you can expect to pay.

1. Stitch Count and Design Complexity

At the core of embroidery pricing is stitch count the number of stitches required to complete your design. Unlike printing, embroidery is a physical process where threads are stitched into fabric, and the more intricate or larger the design, the more time and resources it takes.

• Small/simple designs (under 5,000 stitches): Typically range from $5 to $10 per item.
• Medium-sized designs (5,000–10,000 stitches): Generally, cost between $10 and $20 per item.
• Large or highly detailed designs (10,000+ stitches): Can go from $20 up to $40 or more per item.

The type of artwork, the amount of detail, and the number of thread colors can all affect the stitch count and, in turn, the cost.

2. Type of Garment or Product

The item being embroidered plays a big role in pricing. Different fabrics, shapes, and garment styles require different handling and preparation, which can affect both labour time and production settings.

Here’s a general breakdown by item type:

• Hats & Caps: $8–$20 each. Structured hats are often more complex to embroider than flat surfaces.
• Polos & T-Shirts: $10–$25 each, depending on material quality and design placement.
• Jackets, Hoodies, & Outerwear: $20–$50+ each. Heavier fabrics require more durable embroidery methods.
• Bags, Towels, & Accessories: $7–$25 each. Pricing depends on material and accessibility for machine stitching.

Specialty fabrics like fleece, canvas, leather, or moisture-wicking materials may add to the overall cost due to the need for special needles or techniques.

3. Order Quantity

Like many custom products, embroidery pricing often benefits from volume discounts. The more units you order, the lower the cost per item tends to be. Here’s a rough idea:

• Small orders (1–5 items): Highest per-unit cost due to setup time.
• Mid-size orders (6–24 items): Modest discount per item.
• Bulk orders (25–99 items): More substantial savings.
• Large orders (100+ items): Lowest cost per item, ideal for teams or company apparel.

Some providers have minimum order requirements, while others allow single-item customization but may charge more for doing so.

4. Setup and Digitizing Fees

Before a design can be embroidered, it must be converted into a digitized file—a format readable by embroidery machines. This process translates your logo or image into stitch instructions.

• Digitizing setup fee: Typically ranges from $25 to $75 (one-time charge per design).
• Reorders: Once your design is digitized, it can usually be reused at no additional cost.

Some embroidery companies may include digitizing in the total cost if your order meets a minimum quantity or dollar amount.

5. Design Placement and Extra Customization

Standard embroidery placements like left chest logos on shirts or center designs on hats are usually included in base pricing. However, additional placements (like sleeve, back, or collar embroidery) may increase the cost.

Additional factors that can affect the price:

• Thread color changes between garments
• Oversized designs
• Personalization (e.g., individual names or numbers)

6. Turnaround Time and Rush Orders

Custom embroidery takes time, typically 7–14 business days depending on the order size. If you need your items faster, some companies offer rush production for an added fee. Be sure to clarify deadlines when placing an order to avoid delays or unexpected costs.

Sample Cost Scenarios

Here are a few common examples of what you might expect to pay:

• Small business order (25 polos with logo): Around $12–$18 per shirt, depending on the design.
• Team hats (50 embroidered caps): $8–$14 each, bulk discount applied.
• Custom jackets (15 units with chest and sleeve logos): $30–$45 per jacket.
• Personalized gift towels (10 items with names): $15–$25 each, plus possible setup fee.

How to Get the Best Value

• Keep your design simple to reduce stitch count.
• Order in bulk whenever possible.
• Choose high-quality but easy-to-stitch garments to avoid extra costs.
• Work with experienced providers like Shop Strange for transparent pricing, quality results, and excellent customer service.
• Reorder using the same design to avoid additional setup fees.

The cost of custom embroidery varies, but understanding what goes into the pricing helps you plan your project effectively. From stitch count and fabric to order size and design placement, every detail matters. Whether you’re creating branded apparel, promotional products, or personalized gifts, custom embroidery offers a professional, long-lasting look that stands out.

Partnering with an experienced provider like Shop Strange ensures that you receive beautifully crafted products that reflect your brand or personal style, on time and on budget. With the right approach, embroidery can be both affordable and impressive.