What is 3D Embroidery?
3D embroidery is a technique similar to standard embroidery printing whereby your design is set up within a special file format called a DST file. We will use this file and the running sheet to tell our machines exactly how it should print embroidery to ensure a perfect finish.
After the file has been sent to the machine, the garments are then fixed into place using a special support which clamps the embroidered area of the garment so it is tight and will not move.
Finally, thread colours are added to the machine and the design is stitched onto the garment.
The main difference between standard embroidery and 3D embroidery is that a foam material is fixed to the garment before the threads are then embroidered over the top. This gives a raised 3D puff embroidery effect that will give your brand even more visibility - ideal for 3D embroidery art or bold logos on 3D embroidery hats and 3D embroidery caps.
How to Use 3D Embroidery?
3D embroidery is an excellent technique as it’s ideal for all types of garments from corporate clothing, uniforms, workwear and any other types of clothing that you can think of. From large organisations to small businesses – embroidery is the perfect way to customise your clothing and ensure that your brand name and logo is represented perfectly.
One of the main benefits of using 3D embroidery is the durability of this technique. As long as the proper wash care instructions are followed, there’s no reason why the 3D embroidery patterns won't last as long as the garment itself.
This technique works best on heavyweight products such as caps, hoodies and sweatshirts. Items like 3D embroidery on hoodies or 3D embroidery on caps stand out brilliantly and are especially popular in fashion and branded merchandise. Even specialised styles like 3D floral embroidery, 3D beaded embroidery, or 3D cap embroidery UK are possible using our advanced machines and expertise in 3D machine embroidery. It also works very well on workwear items like aprons and jackets.
PLEASE NOTE
To preserve the embroidery and the garment, it is recommended to wash it inside out on a cold wash. Do not use a tumble dryer and do not iron over the print. do not iron over the print.
For those looking to explore or even learn how to do 3d embroidery, our expert team is on hand to guide you through the process from concept to final product, whether it’s 3D bead embroidery, 3D cap embroidery, or standout 3D embroidery stitches on hoodies, t-shirts or accessories.
Advantages of 3D Embroidery
- Produces a high-quality finish
- Stylish and sophisticated look
- Excellent durability, especially for 3D embroidery hoodies or 3D embroidery t shirts.
Disadvantages of 3D Embroidery
- Difficult to achieve exact replications of complicated 3D embroidery designs
- Uses single colour threads and stitches to recreate 3D embroidery techniques
- Initial setup fee makes it unsuitable for small quantity orders
- Unsuitable for lightweight fabrics
- Minimum recommended order quantity is 25 units
More Printing Techniques
Love the raised, premium look of 3D embroidery but curious about other finishes? We offer a full range of printing techniques to suit different fabrics, quantities, budgets and brand goals - from soft retail hand-feel to rugged workwear branding, subtle tone-on-tone to high-impact shine. Share your artwork, garment type and deadline, and our team will recommend the best route to keep your colours crisp, your logo consistent, and your merch looking sharp wash after wash.
Additional Screen Printing Techniques
Add more impact to your garments. Our enhanced screen printing options introduce extra depth, texture, vibrancy and durability - tailored to your fabric, artwork, and budget. Explore the finishes available, compare look and feel, care guidance and ideal order sizes. Share your design, quantities and deadline, and we’ll recommend a setup that keeps colours punchy, details sharp and your branding built to last.
Our Embroidery Gallery