The Most Popular Embroidery Styles (And When to Use Them)

The Most Popular Embroidery Styles (And When to Use Them)

The 4 Different Types of Embroidery Style

 

When it comes to custom branding, embroidery brings a level of polish and professionalism you just can’t get with other print methods. But not all embroidery is created equal — each style has its own look, feel, and best use case.

Here at Mint Prints, we help brands and creatives bring their ideas to life with embroidery styles that suit the purpose. Whether you're launching a merch line, outfitting a team, or adding flair to workwear, here are four of the most popular embroidery techniques to consider: 


1. Flat Embroidery – Clean and Classic

This is your go-to embroidery style for everyday use. Flat embroidery involves stitching thread directly into the fabric, producing a smooth and precise design. This is the most used embroidery style; the majority of embroidery you've come across is most likely Flat Embroidery. 

Best for:

  • Logos on polos, jackets, tote bags

  • Lightweight or flexible fabrics

  • Caps

What's the Purpose: It’s clean, durable, and cost-effective for bulk orders. 

 


2. 3D Puff Embroidery – Bold and Raised

Looking for something with more impact? 3D Puff Embroidery uses foam under the stitching to raise the design, giving it a three-dimensional, sculpted look.

Best for:

  • Baseball caps and snapbacks

  • Streetwear branding

  • Bold initials or thick-letter logos

What's the Purpose: That raised texture grabs attention and gives serious dimension to your design. 

(The image above shows a puff embroidery on a 6-panel Cap) 

 

3. Appliqué Embroidery – Textured and Classic

Appliqué combines embroidery with cut fabric shapes that are sewn onto the garment. It’s a popular method for large or layered designs where stitching alone would be too dense. The picture shows a job we did for Celsius, applying an appliqué/tackle twill process

Best for:

  • Varsity jackets

  • Collegiate-style lettering

  • Large custom patches

What's the Purpose: It adds contrast, texture, and a premium vintage feel. 

 

4. Chain Stitch Embroidery – Vintage and Handcrafted

Chain stitch creates a looping effect that looks like a continuous line. It’s often used in retro or artisan-style designs and can be done by hand or specialty machines.

Best for:

  • Workwear

  • Custom name patches

  • Retro branding or cursive designs

What's the purpose: It feels one-of-a-kind, with that old-school, handmade energy. 

Back to blog