Jacquard Knit, Embroidery and Woven Labels on Caps: What's the Difference

Jacquard knit (more accurately, jacquard knitting or a woven-in pattern) means the logo is knitted directly into the fabric of the cap or sock during manufacturing, rather than stitched on top – which is why it requires a minimum order of roughly 100–300 pieces and a 4–6 week production time, but it will never peel off or wear away. Classic machine embroidery is available from as little as 1 piece, with logo printing from around €3.50 per unit, while a sewn-on woven label is the middle ground – from 100 pieces, with the brand name rendered in a fine, flat finish. Below we explain when each method makes sense.

What jacquard knit is and how it's made

In the jacquard technique, the knitting machine works simultaneously with 2–4 different coloured yarns, forming the pattern directly within the structure of the knit. The logo isn't placed on top – it's part of the cap itself. That's why the inside also looks like a mirror image, with the yarn floats visible.

The main limitation is detail. The knit grid is coarser than an embroidery stitch, so thin lines, small font text under 8 mm in height, or colour gradients can't be reproduced. A simplified version of the logo works best: an outline, monogram, geometric shape, or lettering in a bold typeface.

This is also how socks with a woven-in logo are made – there, the minimum order is 100 pairs, and the logo is knitted in as part of the sock's design. The principle is the same for caps, except the pattern usually runs across the whole panel or repeats around the circumference.

Classic machine embroidery on a knitted cap

Embroidery is the most commonly used method, as it works with ready-made caps already in stock from our catalogue. The logo is embroidered with polyester thread, with a standard size for a knitted cap of up to 90×90 mm, in practice more often 60×40 mm on the front of the brim.

A stabilising backing is always placed under the embroidery on coarsely knitted material, otherwise the stitching would stretch the knit. Very fine text (letters under 4 mm in height) can't be embroidered cleanly on a stretchy knit – in such cases, a label is a better choice.

Preparation is a one-off cost: the logo needs to be converted into embroidery software (digitising), roughly €20–35 depending on complexity. This fee isn't charged again for future batches with the same logo. Find out more about the methods in the clothing printing section.

Woven labels: when the brand needs a fine touch

A woven label is a separately made textile tag that's sewn onto the brim, edge of a cap, or a sock. It's woven with very fine thread, so a 40×15 mm area can fit text that wouldn't be legible in embroidery. A black-on-black or tone-on-tone version is also available, often used by clothing brands.

The minimum order is usually 100–500 pcs depending on size, and you should allow for two stages: label production (2–3 weeks) and sewing-on. A label looks flat and modern but is felt as a separate element – if you want the logo to be raised and noticeable from a distance, embroidery works better.

Comparison: cost and lead times

Prices are indicative, excl. VAT, and depend on quantity, design complexity and the specific model. You'll see the exact figure in your quote.

How to choose: three typical scenarios

A sports club ordering 30 caps for a team

Jacquard isn't an option here – the quantity is too small. You take caps from the catalogue and embroider the club emblem in 2–3 thread colours. Total lead time is 6–10 business days, with a one-off preparation fee.

A brand selling its own products in a shop

If the cap itself is the product rather than a giveaway, a woven-in pattern or label gives it a finished look. A common combination is a jacquard pattern on the panel plus a small woven label on the side. Plan for 6–8 weeks ahead.

An event needing 200 caps with simple text

Here it's worth considering both options. If the logo is simple and there's time, jacquard at 200–500 pcs becomes cost-comparable to embroidery and looks more uniform. If you only have two weeks – go with embroidery.

Files and artwork approval

In all three cases, you'll need vector graphics: .ai, .eps, .pdf or .svg. Specify colours in Pantone shades – yarns and threads are matched by Pantone, not by screen colour. If you only have a JPG or PNG, we'll redraw the logo; we'll let you know about this in the quote.

Before production, we send an artwork proof with the specified logo size and placement for approval by email. For jacquard and label orders, we can also prepare a physical sample on request – this adds 7–10 days to the lead time, but it's usually worth it for larger quantities. Other promotional products with your logo can be added to the same order.

Frequently asked questions

Is jacquard knit the same as regular embroidery?

No. With jacquard, the pattern is knitted into the fabric during manufacturing using different coloured yarns, and it can't be separated from the cap. Regular embroidery is stitched onto an already finished cap with thread.

How many colours can be used in a woven-in logo?

Usually 2–4 colours per row. More colours are technically possible but increase production cost and make the knit thicker on the inside. With embroidery, the number of colours is practically unlimited.

What's the minimum order for caps with a woven-in logo?

Roughly 100–300 pieces depending on the model and yarn. For socks with a woven-in logo, the minimum is 100 pairs. For smaller quantities, we offer embroidery from 1 piece.

Does embroidery damage the stretch of the knit?

The embroidered area becomes firmer, so the logo isn't placed in areas that stretch the most. On the brim or front, with the right stabiliser, the cap keeps its shape and wearability.

How long should I allow from order to delivery?

Embroidery on catalogue caps – 6–10 business days. A woven-in logo – 4–6 weeks, since the cap is made from scratch. A woven label – 3–5 weeks.

Can embroidery and a label be combined on the same cap?

Yes, this is a common combination: an embroidered logo on the front and a small woven label on the side or brim edge. You'll need to account for preparation fees for both methods separately.

Send us your logo and desired quantity at info@attaprint.lv, call, or message us on WhatsApp +371 25776699 – contact details here. We'll prepare a quote with prices, print location and lead time within one business day.