Flat Embroidery Vs. 3D Embroidery: Discover The Differences

Are you planning to start your own brand of custom apparel? Well, bravo! However, there are a lot of ways through which you can offer customization in clothing items. One such way is to provide custom flat embroidery designs to apparel. Oh! That is an incredible plan!

Did you like our idea? Awesome! Initially, you can introduce flat embroidery and 3D embroidery options. 

What? 

You don’t know the difference between different types of embroidery? You must be kidding us!

Well, it is okay! In fact, you just got lucky because below, we have discussed briefly the main differences between the most used types of needlework – flat embroidery and 3D puff embroidery. Oh, Thank Goodness!

So, if you want to become a pro and become able to differentiate between them, we suggest you run your eyes over this blog right now! And we assure you that by the end of it, you will be able to tell both types of embroidery apart. 

Can’t trust us? Well, give it a shot then. We’ll meet you again at the end!

Unveil The Artistry Of Embroidery: Flat Embroidery Vs. 3D Embroidery

Hold Up, What Is Flat And 3D Embroidery?

To start with the differences, we think it is better to get acquainted with flat embroidery and 3D embroidery. The best part? You can get both types of embroidery done from digitizing services. So, let us get on with it, shall we? 

Flat Embroidery 

Flat embroidery uses a decorative stitch, mostly a satin stitch, to stitch up the embroidered thread flat into the item of clothing. This type of needlework is most commonly used throughout the world. Moreover, flat embroidery can be done on a lot of fabrics. 

However, thicker fabrics give better results. This needlework is used to work in chic and minimalistic designs. It gives your clothes a personalized and neat touch. So, personalize your hats and hoodies in a unique way with this type of artistry. 

3D Embroidery Or Puff Embroidery

The design expands over the textile when you opt for 3D or puff embroidery. Puff foam is used to create the 3D pattern bulge out. This 3D effect gives the item of clothing a premium and upscale look. However, there is one downside to this gorgeous needlework. Are you ready to hear it? 

Well, because of the cost of raw materials and the number of stitches applied, the price of 3D embroidery is more than that of its counterpart. It requires twice or thrice as much time and effort as the types mentioned earlier.

Differences Between Flat And 3D Embroidery

Now that we are well aware of both types of stitches, we think it is fitting to get to know about their differences. Say no more, and read below!

Desired Aesthetic

• Flat Embroidery: Think about the aesthetics that you want to get for your business. A flat embroidery gives an elegant and classic appearance to the garments. Thus, it is perfect for sophisticated branding and corporate logos. 

• 3D Embroidery: On the other hand, 3D embroidery gives an attention-grabbing and dynamic element to the articles. Therefore, it is suitable for fashion-forward designs, sport-team apparel, and items that need more enhanced visual appeal. 

Design Complexity

• Flat Embroidery: If you want to incorporate intricate details such as fine lines, shading, etc., then opting for flat embroidery might serve you better than the other. This type of needlework makes room for precise stitches and a broad color palette. Thus, you can capture intricate details accurately. 

• 3D Embroidery: On the contrary, 3D embroidery only serves large and bold designs well. So, if you are thinking of adding visual impact and depth to your apparel, then go for a 3d puff embroidery.

Fabric Compatibility

• Flat Embroidery: Lastly, it is crucial to consider the type of fabric that you want to embroider on. The flat needlework works perfectly well on a massive range of fabrics. You can use silk, linen, polyester, leather, cotton, woven material, and whatnot to showcase your mastery. 
• 3D Embroidery: However, on the other side, 3D embroidery might not do well on thinner fabrics. So, try using thicker fabrics to accommodate the raised threads or foam. 
• What are the main differences between flat embroidery and 3D embroidery?

Flat embroidery is more tightly packed as compared to its counterpart. Designs or shapes having a minimum thickness of 0.05” (1.3 mm) are needed for flat needlework. However, the 3D puff embroidery makes use of a foam backing and a thicker thread to display that “raised” texture. This technique also needs more space between each stitch to insert the foam layer. Due to the time and effort required for 3D embroidery, it costs more than the latter one. 

• What is puff embroidery?

Puff embroidery or 3D embroidery radiates a three-dimensional look to your designs. For this type of needlework, a thread is stitched over a piece of foam to give an elevated effect. It is an ideal way to make your design stand out against your article of clothing. However, there is one limitation. You must opt for a simple design because of the foam under the stitches. 

• What is flat or 2D embroidery?

As the name suggests, the 2D or flat embroidery is “flat.” There is no depth in this needlework at all. Thus making this type of embroidery perfect for capturing intricate details. The best part? You can add as many minute details to your design as you want. These embroidery designs never cease to amaze the audience with their versatility and broad range of patterns. 

• What do you use for 3D embroidery?

For 3D embroidery, you can add Puffy Foam. It adds an elevated dimension to machine embroidery. These embroidery puff foam sheets are resistant to water, non-toxic, as well as easy to wash. However, they cannot be dry-cleaned and are flammable. These sheets perforate neatly when stitched through, and as a consequence, the stitches are able to stand well above the fabric. 

Summing It All Up!

Hello again! So, did you get it? We are sure that you did! You can now tell both types of embroidery (flat and 3D) apart. Congratulations! Well, we told you it will happen, didn’t we? 

Overall, the flat and 3D embroidery types look breathtakingly amazing technology on a fabric. So, remember the above-discussed points whenever you get confused about which type you should go for. And we are sure you will select the right one. Yay!