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Blog / Style & trends / 7 Best Hoodies for Embroidery: The Ultimate Guide

Style & trends

7 Best Hoodies for Embroidery: The Ultimate Guide

7 Best Hoodies for Embroidery: The Ultimate Guide
Pauls Smiltiņš

By Pauls Smiltiņš

11 min read

Who doesn’t love a personalized hoodie?

Whether you’re starting a new clothing line or just want to level up your style, quality hoodies are a great choice for personalization. 

With their smooth surfaces and stable fabrics, blank hoodies provide the perfect canvas for embroidery designs. These qualities make them the perfect garment for creative stitches to shine.

Today we’ll take a look at the 7 best hoodies for embroidery and explain the do’s and don’ts of creating custom embroidered hoodies.

Are you ready? Let’s get to it!

Printed vs. embroidered hoodie—what’s right for you?

So, you’ve decided that you want to get into the hoodie game, but you’re not sure which method is the best for your business? Choosing between the two options comes down to the intricacy and size of your design.

two men sitting on a staircaseSource: Printful

Embroidery offers a distinctive raised texture to your designs, making it excellent for intricate details such as text and company logos. If you prefer a smaller, more refined logo design or graphic, embroidery could be the ideal choice for a polished look.

Printing provides a smooth, flat design surface, fantastic for achieving a modern aesthetic commonly found in streetwear, casual wear, or fitness apparel. Printing excels with large designs, such as oversized logos and all-over prints.

Interested? Here’s our blog post on the 6 Best Quality Hoodies for Printing.

You’ll also need to consider color availability. While embroidery may face limitations in the color department, printing offers a broader spectrum with the ability to mix inks for custom shades.

Pro tip: Partnering with Printful, embroidery thread color limitations are a thing of the past. While regular embroidery limits you to 15 thread colors, only allowing you to pick six at a time, with our unlimited color embroidery you have endless color options, as the single white thread gets dyed in the process.

What makes a hoodie great for embroidery?

Essentially, there isn’t a one-size-fits-all perfect hoodie but rather hoodies that excel in specific functions. When it comes to embroidery, there are certain aspects you should consider before you start.

Fabric

When selecting a hoodie, the choice of fabric is paramount and can significantly influence its performance and suitability for embroidery. Embroidery is a versatile technique that thrives on a range of fabrics including cotton, silk, linen, satin, and denim. This adaptability underscores its effectiveness within various fashion styles.

a man in a white hoodieSource: Printful

While all of these fabrics can be embroidered, some may require a different type of needle or thread. Keep in mind that embroidery isn’t suitable for waterproof garments due to the needle holes it creates.

Consider the density of the fabric as well. We highly recommend choosing hoodies with a higher fabric density, as it results in a smoother and more stable surface for embroidery work. This higher density helps the embroidered designs stand out more prominently.

For more insights, check out our Ultimate Hoodie Fabric Guide.

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Thickness

Everyone loves a warm and thick hoodie. When seeking hoodies suitable for embroidery, prioritize material quality and durability. Opt for hoodies crafted from sturdy fabrics known to withstand the embroidery process effectively. Steer clear of hoodies that feel too thin or flimsy, as they may lack the necessary stability for secure embroidery stitching.

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Embroidery thickness can vary depending on the garment’s material. Generally, embroidery works great on soft and breathable fabrics like cotton and synthetic blends. Thicker hoodies, such as weighted or padded ones, may be more difficult to work with as the embroidery needle may resist passing through the fabric easily.

Brand

When it comes to purchasing hoodies, some people have a strong preference for specific brands, either due to particular product features or brand loyalty. While these customers may stick to their preferred brand, most people are more flexible in their choices.

Among the most notable brands, Gildan stands out for its consistent quality and affordability, making it a popular choice for blank apparel. Similarly, Champion is a great choice if you’re looking for an economical premium quality hoodie. Scrolling through Printful’s catalog, you’ll find plenty of quality hoodies to choose from.

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Ultimately, the brand choice depends on factors such as budget, intended use, and desired features, ensuring that customers can find a hoodie that meets their specific needs and preferences.

Best hoodies for embroidery

Now that we understand the basics, let’s look at the best hoodies for embroidery. There are two main types—pullovers and zip-ups.

a group of people posing for a pictureSource: Unsplash

Pullover hoodies are designed to be pulled over your head and typically feature a kangaroo pocket and a drawstring hood. They provide a relaxed, casual look and are easy to wear.

Zip-up hoodies have a full zip closure, and you can wear them open or closed to create different styles. They often have two front pockets and a drawstring hood, and their lightweight material makes them perfect for layering.

1. Unisex Heavy Blend Hoodie | Gildan 18500

The Gildan 18500 Hoodie stands out as one of the most popular blank options, appreciated for its comfort, affordability, and extensive color range. The classic fit appeals to many individuals, offering a cozy cotton/poly blend known as the Heavy Blend that provides warmth without feeling heavy or stiff.

This hoodie is notably thicker than some competitors, making it ideal for chilly days. Another standout feature of the Gildan 18500 is its softness, maintaining its comfort even after multiple washes. Though it may be shorter than some buyers prefer, its overall quality and affordability make it a popular choice for various purposes, from streetwear to team-building gifts.

a woman sitting on a stoolSource: Printful

With its higher fabric density, the Gildan 18500 hoodie provides a smooth and stable surface for embroidery work. You can even take advantage of the unlimited color embroidery option to make your designs stand out from the competition.

2. Unisex Premium Hoodie | Cotton Heritage M2580

For those who appreciate the timeless appeal of classic hoodies, the Unisex Premium Hoodie offers both comfort and style. Crafted from a soft blend of cotton and polyester, this pullover boasts a 100% cotton exterior, providing a pleasant tactile experience. Its understated yet classic design makes it suitable for different occasions and activities.

This premium hoodie is designed for warmth, featuring a plush interior lining, a 3-panel drawstring hood, and a convenient kangaroo pocket for storing personal items. With custom inside and outside labels, you can maximize your branding efforts, showcasing your logo and boosting brand visibility.

a man in a white hoodieSource: Printful

With a fabric blend of ring-spun cotton and polyester, this hoodie strikes the perfect balance between comfort and durability, making it an excellent canvas for your embroidery designs.

3. Unisex Champion Tie-Dye Hoodie

The Champion tie-dye hoodie blends the iconic Champion brand with eye-catching tie-dye fabric, offering a stylish and contemporary look. Each hoodie boasts a distinctive tie-dye design, with the garment-dyeing process ensuring that no two pieces are alike. This one-of-a-kind feature provides an excellent base for showcasing your best-selling designs and adding a touch of individuality to your store.

Crafted from 82% cotton and 18% poly fleece, this hoodie offers both comfort and durability, providing warmth without compromising on style. The unique scrunch-dye pattern adds visual appeal, while the cross-grain cut resists shrinkage, ensuring your embroidered designs look sharp even after several washes.

a man wearing a hat and a hoodie holding a lemonSource: Printful

This high-quality hoodie is finished with a woven label at the back of the neck and an embroidered “C’’ logo on the left sleeve, highlighting its authenticity and quality.

4. Unisex Eco Raglan Hoodie | SOL’S 03568

The Unisex Eco Raglan Hoodie stands out as a sustainable and comfortable choice, crafted from a blend of organic cotton and recycled polyester. Its 100% organic cotton exterior and brushed interior lining offer a soft feel, making sure the hoodie wears comfortably, especially in colder climates.

Featuring a classic raglan sleeve design, a drawstring hood, and a spacious front pocket, this hoodie combines functionality with style. This SOL’S hoodie is a timeless piece suitable for casual or athletic activities, providing endless opportunities for personalization. 

If your embroidery designs require a broad spectrum of colors, the Unisex Eco Raglan Hoodie supports unlimited color embroidery, making it possible to create designs with gradient effects.

a man and woman posing for a pictureSource: Printful

This hoodie, certified by GRS (Global Recycled Standard), OCS (Organic Content Standard), and GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard), as well as OEKO-TEX Standard 100 and PETA-Approved Vegan, reflects a commitment to sustainability and ethical sourcing practices.

5. Unisex Essential Eco Hoodie | Stanley/Stella STSU822

The Stanley Stella hoodie is an exceptional choice for those seeking a versatile blank hoody for printing or embroidery. Renowned for its high quality, Stanley Stella is a trusted supplier of wholesale blank hoodies, ensuring that your custom products stand out with impeccable quality.

Constructed with sustainability in mind, the Unisex Essential Eco Hoodie is made from 100% organic cotton, offering comfort with sustainability in mind. Featuring a double-layered hood, set-in sleeves, and a front pouch pocket, this hoodie offers ample space for creative embroidery designs to come to life, resulting in outstanding custom hoodies.

a woman smiling with hands in pocketsSource: Printful

This hoodie, certified by GRS, OCS, and GOTS for its organic and recycled materials, as well as OEKO-TEX Standard 100 and PETA-Approved Vegan, upholds stringent standards of sustainability and ethical production practices.

6. Unisex Heavy Blend Zip Hoodie | Gildan 18600

When it comes to the hottest hooded tops, zipped varieties are a must-have. They offer a different look and undoubtedly belong on the list of the best blank hoodies for embroidery.

The Unisex Heavy Blend Zip Hoodie is a standout option, seamlessly combining functionality and style. Made from soft fleece both inside and out, this Gildan heavy blend hoodie offers a premium feel that customers will love. With features like a metal zipper, front pockets, and overlapped fabric for seamless full-front printing, this hoodie is sure to please your customers.

Constructed from 50% cotton and 50% polyester, this hoodie strikes the perfect balance between comfort and durability. Details such as air-jet spun yarn for reduced piling and double-needle stitching ensure long-lasting quality, making it an excellent choice for embroidery.

a woman in a black hoodieSource: Printful

Pro tip: Safety Green variants are compliant with ANSI/ISEA 107 standards, making them suitable for workplaces requiring high-visibility clothing.

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7. Unisex Pullover Hoodie | Bella + Canvas 3719

Crafted from Airlume combed ringspun cotton with polyester, the Bella + Canvas 3719 hoodie boasts a remarkably soft sponge fleece fabric that offers unmatched comfort. Its loose fit is designed to drape comfortably over the body, making it suitable for both men and women. With hood drawcords, a kangaroo pocket, and a ribbed trim, this hoodie exudes a contemporary style. 

The fabric holds up well to repeated wears and washes, ensuring the lasting softness and durability of a premium quality hoodie. As a result, the Bella + Canvas 3719 hoodie serves as an exceptional blank canvas for customization, offering a stylish retail fit that provides ample room for custom embroidery.

a man and woman standing next to each otherSource: Printful

Create your hoodie with Printful

Equipped with all the knowledge, you’re probably eager to start selling. That’s where print-on-demand services come into play. Partnering with Printful allows you to design your stylish hoodie in no time. For the full guide, you’ll want to check out our blog on How to Design a Hoodie with Printful: A Step-by-Step Guide.

However, here’s a quick walkthrough:

1. Choose your hoodie

    • Explore popular styles, fabrics, and fits to match your brand’s vision

    • Decide between pullover and zip-up styles, considering features like pockets and drawstrings

2. Pick your fulfillment technique

    • Choose from a variety of different techniques such as embroidery, direct-to-garment, and direct-to-film to bring your designs to life

3. Find inspiration

    • Explore design ideas from various sources and unleash your creativity

4. Create your designs

    • Follow our guidelines to ensure your design meets quality standards

    • Use our free templates and design tools for a seamless process

5. Place your design

6. Add a personal touch

    • Strengthen your brand’s identity with custom neck labels and sleeves
    • Add a personal touch with custom packaging

7. Order samples

8. Start selling

    • Evaluate product costs, choose a pricing strategy, and regularly review your selling prices to maximize profits

a screenshot of a websiteSource: Printful

With Printful’s Design Maker, creating custom hoodies is a breeze. So, dive in, explore your options, and start today—the possibilities are endless!

Which hoodie was your favorite?

Whether it’s your favorite gym hoodie or a cozy hooded sweatshirt for chilly afternoons, adding an embroidery design is the cherry on top. Selling custom hoodies is also a great way to boost your online business growth.

Remember that you’re not alone in this journey. Whether you’re selecting the ideal hoodie style or fabric or even coming up with new embroidery ideas—we’re here for it all.

Pick a quality hoodie and start creating stylish apparel today.

Good luck!

Read next: Sweatshirt Embroidery Ideas for Your Next Designs

author

By Pauls Smiltiņš on May 13, 2024

Pauls Smiltiņš

Guest author

Pauls is a content writer with a background in the radio. He has a degree in communication sciences, and in his free time, Pauls loves to entertain crowds by playing live music on stage.

Pauls is a content writer with a background in the radio. He has a degree in communication sciences, and in his free time, Pauls loves to entertain crowds by playing live music on stage.