When it comes to branded apparel, how your logo appears is just as important as where it appears. From classic embroidery to trendy direct-to-film transfers, each decoration method offers a unique finish and vibe. The location of your logo—left chest, back yoke, wrist—also impacts how your brand is seen and remembered.

 In this guide, we’ll break down the most popular apparel decoration methods and help you better understand and how to choose the best logo placement for your brand goals. Not to fret- we will also offer suggestions to ensure you are getting the best possible branded apparel. 

Decoration Methods: What’s the Best Way to Add Your Logo?

  1. Screen Printing – A go-to for bulk orders and bold designs, screen printing involves pushing ink through a stencil (or “screen”) onto fabric. It’s ideal for t-shirts, hoodies, and other flat garments.
    • Best for: Quantities over 24, bold logos
    • Pros: Durable, vibrant colors, cost-effective for bulk
    • Considerations: Requires a minimum order of 24 items

  1. Embroidery – Embroidery offers a high-end, polished look by stitching thread directly into the garment. Perfect for polos, jackets, hats, and uniforms.
    • Best for: Professional or upscale apparel
    • Pros: Long-lasting, adds texture, great for small logos
    • Considerations: Can be heavy on lightweight fabrics

  1. Heat Transfers – Heat transfers apply designs to apparel using heat and pressure. These are pre-printed designs on a transfer sheet.
    • Best for: Small runs, complex designs, personalization
    • Pros: Clean detail, good for gradients and small text
    • Considerations: May not last as long as embroidery or screen printing

  1. Direct to Film (DTF) – DTF printing is the new kid on the block. It prints your design onto a film, which is then transferred to fabric with heat. Think of it as a mix of digital printing and heat transfer.
    • Best for: Small runs, full-color designs, logos with fine detail
    • Pros: Works on all fabrics, soft hand feel, quick turnaround
    • Considerations: May not last as long as embroidery or screen printing

Logo Placement: Where Should Your Branding Go?

Choosing the right decoration method is half the story—logo placement matters just as much. It affects visibility, professionalism, and how your team or customers wear the apparel. Here’s a breakdown of the most popular placements:

  1. Left Chest: The most common spot—great for polos, button-downs, and corporate wear. It keeps things clean and professional. Best for: Company uniforms, professional branding. 
  2. Full Chest: Go big or go home. A full chest print is ideal for t-shirts and hoodies where your logo or message is front and center. Best for: Events, promotional giveaways, statement pieces
  3. Back Yoke: This subtle spot on the upper back is great for layering a second logo or wordmark. Best for: Jackets, quarter-zips, outerwear
  4. Left or Right Sleeve: Perfect for secondary branding, slogans, or adding a website or social handle. Best for: Long-sleeve tees, hoodies
  5. Wrist or Cuff: A fun and unexpected place for branding. It’s small but memorable. Best for: Hoodies, crewnecks

How to Choose Your Logo Placement

Your logo location should support your goal for the apparel:

  • Professionalism? Left chest embroidery is timeless.
  • Event branding? Go full chest with screen print.
  • Subtle swag? Try the back yoke or sleeve.
  • Maximum impact? Use more than one location.

Your imprint color matters too! Try a tone-on-tone look for higher end pieces. When in doubt, your promotional partner (like us!) can recommend what works best based on the item and your budget. 

Contact us today to learn about the decoration methods that best meet your goals.