Close-up embroidered logo on a navy pique polo shirt

July 20, 2026 · 8 min read

Polos

Custom Polo Shirts in Ottawa: Print vs Embroidery for Work Polos

Polos are the quiet workhorse of branded apparel in Ottawa. Here is how we choose embroidery vs print, pick a blank, and keep staff reorders matching.

Ottawa offices, clinics, and field teams lean on custom polo shirts because they look intentional without a stiff dress code. Custom Tee Boutique offers ready-to-customize polos — design online or quote larger programs.

Why embroidery usually wins on work polos

Stitch holds up to industrial laundry better than many soft prints for small left-chest marks. Embroidery also photographs as “premium” on LinkedIn and storefronts. See screen vs embroidery.

When printing makes sense

  • Short runs with full-colour crests
  • Large back designs for events
  • Quick replacements via DTF

Choosing a pique blank

Cotton-rich pique for indoor staff; performance poly for outdoor crews. Fit and colour availability matter as much as GSM — check charts on each polo product.

What a proper order includes

Approved logo size, colourway, size run, and a saved file for mid-year hires. Related: branded polos for business and polo printing near me Ottawa.

Request a polo quote or start in the shop.

Frequently asked questions

Is embroidery always more expensive?

Digitizing is usually a one-time setup per design. Per-piece stitch cost depends on size and stitch count — we quote both options when useful.

Can you match an existing staff polo?

Bring a sample or blank SKU if you have one. Close matches are easier than perfect twins across discontinued styles.

Left chest only?

Most work polos use left chest. Sleeve or back marks are available — each placement affects price.

Minimum for Ottawa businesses?

Ready-to-go styles can start small. Volume embroidery programs can be quoted for better unit pricing.

Ready to print?

Design online or send your art — we will quote same-day mockups for most jobs.

Shop custom apparel Get a free mockup