How Much Does Custom Embroidery Cost? Breaking Down the Basics
Consider ordering custom embroidery for your next project. Whether you’re decorating polos for your team, adding your business logo to hats, or personalizing hoodies, understanding embroidery pricing is crucial for planning your budget. Custom embroidery gives your gear a professional, long-lasting look, but the price tag can feel like a mystery—until you know what goes into it.
What Affects the Price of Custom Embroidery?
Embroidery pricing isn’t one size fits all. Several factors influence the final cost:
Design Complexity: Simple logos are generally less expensive than intricate designs.
Stitch Count: The more stitches, the more time and thread required—this directly affects the price.
Garment Choice: Hats, polos, jackets, and hoodies all have different materials and embroidery areas.
Quantity Ordered: Larger orders often qualify for bulk pricing discounts.
Placement and Number of Locations: Having more embroidery locations (such as front and sleeve) means more labor and increased costs.
Customization Extras: Metallic threads, specialty colors, or appliqué can raise the total.
Average Embroidery Costs
Here’s a quick ballpark of what you can expect:
Per Item Estimates
Hats (basic logo): $10–$20 each
Polos or T-shirts (left chest): $15–$25 each
Hoodies or Jackets: $20–$35 each
These prices typically include both the garment and embroidery. Depending on the item, it sometimes is more, such as Nike or Carhartt.
Stitch Count Pricing
Average Cost per 1,000 Stitches: $1.00–$2.50
A basic logo may use 5,000 stitches ($5–$12.50), while more complex artwork can exceed 20,000 stitches.
What People Typically Pay
Most Pulse Merch clients spend between $15 and $25 per piece for polos or t-shirts, depending on the quantity and design. For example, 20 polos with a standard logo might land around $17 to $30 each. Hats—especially Richardson hats—typically range from $14 to $20 each. Smaller orders may incur setup fees, but larger batches offer better value per unit.
Tips to Save on Embroidery
Want to keep your costs in check?
Simplify your artwork to lower the stitch count
Combine apparel types into one order for better pricing
Stick to standard thread colors
Limit embroidery to one location per item
Pulse Merch can help you plan a cost-effective order that still looks top-shelf.
Is It Worth It?
Embroidery offers durability and a premium look that lasts longer than most printed materials. It's perfect for polos, jackets, hats, and gear that need to withstand regular wear. If you're aiming for a polished, lasting impression, custom embroidery is a wise investment.
Get a Personalized Quote
Want to know precisely what your project will cost? The best way to find out is to request a custom quote from Pulse Merch. We make it simple—no hidden fees, no surprises.
