How Much Does It Cost To Embroider A Shirt?

How Much Does It Cost To Embroider A Shirt?

Embroidered shirts have been a popular choice for individuals and businesses looking to add a touch of professionalism or personalization to their wardrobe. But have you ever wondered how much it actually costs to embroider a shirt? The answer may surprise you.

Embroidery prices can vary depending on several factors, such as the complexity of the design, the number of stitches required, and the quantity of shirts being embroidered. On average, the cost to embroider a shirt can range from $5 to $15 per garment. However, prices may be higher for intricate designs or specialty materials.



How Much Does It Cost To Embroider A Shirt?

Factors Affecting the Cost of Embroidering a Shirt

Embroidering a shirt is a popular way to add a personal touch to clothing. Whether you want to customize a shirt for special events, promotional purposes, or simply as a fashion statement, embroidery can enhance the aesthetic appeal and make your shirt stand out. However, the cost of embroidering a shirt can vary depending on several factors. Understanding these factors will help you determine how much it will cost to embroider a shirt and plan your budget accordingly.

Design Complexity

The complexity of the design plays a significant role in determining the cost of embroidering a shirt. Intricate designs with a high level of detail require more time and effort to embroider, which can increase the cost. Designs with multiple colors or stitching techniques can also impact the price, as each color change or stitch variation adds complexity to the embroidery process. Simple designs, on the other hand, are quicker and easier to embroider, resulting in a lower cost. It is essential to consider the complexity of your design when estimating the cost of embroidery.

Embroidery shops often calculate the cost based on the number of stitches required to complete a design. The higher the stitch count, the more time and thread it will take to embroider the shirt. Therefore, complex designs with a larger stitch count will be more expensive compared to simpler designs. If you have a specific budget in mind, it is helpful to discuss the design complexity with the embroidery shop to determine what can be achieved within your price range.

Additionally, designs that require digitization, the process of converting an image or artwork into a format readable by embroidery machines, may incur an additional one-time fee. This fee covers the cost of creating a digital file that can be used for embroidery. The complexity of the design and the amount of editing or customization required can affect the digitization fee.

Quantity and Location of Embroidery

Another factor that influences the cost of embroidering a shirt is the quantity and location of the embroidery. The more shirts you need to embroider, the lower the cost per shirt is likely to be. Embroidery shops often offer quantity discounts, where the price per shirt decreases as the quantity increases. If you are planning to embroider a large batch of shirts, it is worth discussing the pricing options with the embroidery shop to take advantage of such discounts.

The location of the embroidery on the shirt can also impact the cost. Embroidering on a pocket, collar, or sleeve may require additional setup and positioning, which can result in higher prices compared to embroidering on the chest or back. Discussing the placement options with the embroidery shop can help you make an informed decision based on your design and budget.

Furthermore, if you require embroidery on multiple locations of the shirt or additional items, such as hats or bags, the overall cost will increase accordingly. Consider the quantity and location of the embroidery when determining the cost and decide how many shirts or items you need to embroider.

Type of Shirt and Thread

The type of shirt and thread used in the embroidery process can also impact the cost. Higher-quality shirts, such as premium brands or specialty fabrics, tend to be more expensive than standard shirts. The choice of thread material, including regular polyester, rayon, metallic, or specialty threads, can also affect the price. Specialty threads, such as metallic or glow-in-the-dark threads, often incur additional costs due to their unique properties and higher manufacturing expenses.

Additionally, the thread density or coverage of the design can influence the cost. Designs that require a higher density of stitches to fill a larger area will use more thread, resulting in higher costs. Conversely, designs with lower thread density or smaller sizes will require less thread and may be more affordable.

Considering the type of shirt and thread you want for your embroidered shirt is important in determining the overall cost. Discussing the options and pricing with the embroidery shop will help you make an informed decision based on your preferences and budget.

Additional Services

Embroidery shops may offer additional services that can influence the cost of embroidering a shirt. These services can include customizations such as individual names or initials, adding patches, monogramming, or special packaging. Each additional service may incur an extra fee, and it is essential to inquire about these services and their associated costs before finalizing your order.

Some embroidery shops also provide rush or expedited services for tight deadlines. If you require the shirts to be embroidered within a short timeframe, these services may be available at an additional cost. Discussing the timeline and urgency with the embroidery shop will help you understand if extra charges apply and plan accordingly.

Before placing your order, consider if you require any additional services that are not included in the standard embroidery process. This will help you estimate the total cost and avoid any surprises in the final invoice.

Comparing Prices and Getting Quotes

With the various factors affecting the cost of embroidering a shirt, it is advisable to reach out to multiple embroidery shops and compare their prices. Each shop may have different pricing structures, discounts, digitization fees, and additional services. Obtaining quotes from different shops will give you a better idea of the average cost and help you find the best value for your investment.

When requesting quotes, provide all the necessary details, including the quantity, design complexity, desired locations, shirt type, thread preference, and any additional services. This will ensure accurate pricing and help you make an informed decision based on your requirements and budget.

Remember, the cheapest option may not always be the best. Consider the quality of the embroidery, the shop's reputation, and their ability to meet your expectations. Balancing both price and quality will ensure a satisfactory outcome for your embroidered shirts.

DIY Embroidery

If you have the skills and equipment, you may choose to embroider the shirt yourself, which can significantly reduce costs. However, keep in mind that embroidery requires knowledge, practice, and the right tools to achieve professional-looking results. It may take time to master the techniques, and mistakes can result in wasted materials and additional expenses. Consider your embroidery skills and the time investment required before deciding to embark on a DIY embroidery project.

In conclusion, the cost of embroidering a shirt depends on factors such as design complexity, quantity and location of embroidery, type of shirt and thread, and additional services. By considering these factors and obtaining quotes from multiple embroidery shops, you can determine how much it will cost to embroider your shirt and make an informed decision that aligns with your preferences and budget. Whether you choose to hire a professional or take on the embroidery yourself, the final result will be a personalized shirt that adds a unique touch to your wardrobe.


How Much Does It Cost To Embroider A Shirt?

Cost of Embroidering a Shirt

Embroidering a shirt can be a great way to add a personalized and professional touch to your attire. However, the cost of embroidering a shirt can vary depending on various factors.

Some of the factors that can influence the cost include:

  • The complexity and size of the design
  • The number of colors used in the design
  • The type of shirt fabric
  • The quantity of shirts being embroidered
  • The location of the embroidery (front, back, sleeve, etc.)

Generally, the cost of embroidering a single shirt can range from $10 to $50, depending on the factors mentioned above. Bulk orders of embroidered shirts may be offered at a discounted price per shirt.

It is recommended to request a quote from a professional embroidery service to get an accurate cost estimate for your specific requirements. They can provide detailed pricing information based on your design, fabric, quantity, and other specifications.


Key Takeaways

  • Embroidering a shirt typically costs between $5 and $15 per piece.
  • The price can vary based on the complexity of the design and the size of the embroidery.
  • The type of shirt material can also affect the cost, with thicker fabrics usually costing more to embroider.
  • Additional factors like the number of colors in the design, the thread quality, and the location of the embroidery can influence the price.
  • Some embroidery shops may charge additional fees for digitizing the design or for rush orders.

Frequently Asked Questions

Embroidered shirts can add a touch of professionalism and personalization to any outfit. If you're considering getting a shirt embroidered, you may have some questions about the cost. Below are answers to five frequently asked questions about the cost of embroidering a shirt.

1. What factors influence the cost of embroidering a shirt?

The cost of embroidering a shirt can vary depending on several factors:

a) Design complexity: Intricate and detailed designs require more time and skill to embroider, which can increase the cost.

b) Quantity: Typically, the more shirts you need embroidered, the lower the cost per shirt. Discounts are often offered for bulk orders.

c) Type of shirt: The fabric, size, and style of the shirt can influence the price. Embroidering on certain materials or specialty fabrics may require additional expertise or equipment.

d) Additional customization: If you want additional elements, such as names or logos, incorporated into the design, it may affect the overall cost.

2. What is the average cost to embroider a shirt?

The average cost to embroider a shirt usually ranges from $5 to $15 per shirt. However, this can vary depending on the factors mentioned above.

It's important to note that this cost typically includes the embroidery process only and does not include the cost of the shirt itself.

3. Are there any additional fees or charges to consider?

When getting a shirt embroidered, it's essential to consider any additional fees or charges that may apply:

a) Set-up fee: Some embroidery companies may charge a one-time set-up fee for the design process. This fee covers the cost of digitizing the design and preparing it for embroidery.

b) Shipping: If you're ordering shirts from an online embroidery service, there may be shipping costs to factor into the overall expense.

c) Rush orders: If you need the shirts embroidered within a tight timeframe, some embroidery services may charge an additional fee for expedited processing.

4. Can I provide my own shirts for embroidery?

Yes, many embroidery services allow you to provide your own shirts for embroidery. This can be a cost-effective option if you already have the shirts or if you prefer a specific brand or style.

However, it's essential to check with the embroidery service beforehand to ensure that your shirts are compatible with their equipment and embroidery techniques. Some services may have specific requirements for the type of fabric or size of the shirt.

5. Is it more cost-effective to embroider shirts in bulk?

Embroidering shirts in bulk can often be more cost-effective. Many embroidery services offer discounts for larger orders, making the cost per shirt lower compared to individual orders.

If you're planning to embroider a significant number of shirts, it's worth contacting embroidery services and comparing prices for bulk orders.



Embroidering a shirt can vary in cost depending on various factors such as the complexity of the design, the number of stitches, and the type of fabric. It is important to consider these factors when determining the cost of embroidery.

Additionally, the cost of embroidery can also depend on the embroidery service provider. Different providers may have different pricing structures and fees. It is recommended to research and compare prices from different providers to ensure you are getting the best value for your money.


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