In 2025, Ottawa businesses, schools, and organizations are embracing custom clothing as a smart way to boost marketing, team spirit, and brand identity. Whether it’s screen-printed t-shirts for events or embroidered polos for uniforms, customized apparel delivers lasting visibility and value. But how much does custom clothing cost in Ottawa?

The answer varies based on fabric, printing method, order size, and design complexity. Understanding these factors helps organizations maximize their budget and investment. This guide breaks down custom clothing prices in Ottawa for 2025, highlights the factors that influence costs, and shares practical tips to get the best value from your order.



Why Custom Clothing Costs Vary

Custom clothing isn’t one-size-fits-all when it comes to pricing. Different elements influence the final cost, and understanding these factors helps businesses choose the best solution for their needs.

1. Type of Garment

  • T-shirts: The most affordable option, commonly used for giveaways, events, or uniforms. Prices typically start at $10–$15 per unit depending on fabric and printing.

  • Polos: More professional and durable, often used in hospitality or corporate settings. Expect prices around $20–$35 per unit.

  • Hoodies and Sweatshirts: Popular for promotional campaigns and staff apparel, costing $35–$60 per unit depending on material.

  • Jackets and Outerwear: Premium items that can range from $70–$150+, especially when embroidered.

2. Printing or Embroidery Technique

  • Screen Printing: Affordable for larger runs, with costs decreasing as quantity increases.

  • Embroidery: More expensive per piece but adds a high-end, professional look.

  • Specialty Inks and Effects: Metallic, puff, or glow-in-the-dark inks add uniqueness but also increase costs.

3. Fabric and Material Choice

  • 100% Cotton: Comfortable and affordable.

  • Polyester: Durable and slightly more expensive.

  • Blends (Poly-Cotton or Tri-Blends): Mid-range pricing but with added comfort.

  • Performance Fabrics: Higher cost but essential for sports and activewear.

4. Order Quantity

The more you order, the lower the cost per unit. For example:

  • Small runs (10–20 units): Higher cost per piece due to setup fees.

  • Medium runs (50–100 units): Prices drop significantly.

  • Large runs (500+ units): Bulk pricing offers the best savings.

5. Design Complexity

  • Single-color logo: Simple and affordable.

  • Full-color or detailed designs: Require more ink layers or embroidery time, increasing costs.

  • Placement: Printing on multiple areas (front, back, sleeves) raises the price.


Average Custom Clothing Prices in Ottawa (2025)

To give businesses a realistic picture, here’s a breakdown of average 2025 pricing ranges for Ottawa:

Garment Type

Screen Printing (per unit)

Embroidery (per unit)

Specialty Finishes

T-shirt (cotton)

$10 – $20

$15 – $25

+$5 – $10

Polo (cotton/poly)

$20 – $30

$25 – $40

+$10 – $15

Hoodie/Sweatshirt

$35 – $55

$40 – $60

+$15 – $20

Jacket/Outerwear

$70 – $120

$80 – $150+

+$20 – $30

Note: Prices vary depending on order size, fabric quality, and customization details.


How Ottawa Businesses Use Pricing to Their Advantage

Small Businesses

A local coffee shop might order 50 screen-printed t-shirts for staff and promotions. At an average cost of $12 per unit, the total investment of $600 provides long-term marketing value far beyond the cost of a one-time ad campaign.

Corporate Offices

A consulting firm might choose embroidered polos for 30 employees at around $30 each. The $900 investment builds professionalism and client trust.

Sports Teams

A youth soccer league ordering 200 polyester jerseys at $25 each invests $5,000. However, the uniforms last multiple seasons and provide continuous visibility for sponsors.

Nonprofits & Fundraisers

Charities often order affordable cotton t-shirts for fundraising events. With screen-printed shirts costing around $10 each, nonprofits can resell them at $20, doubling their fundraising revenue.


Cost-Effective Strategies for Custom Clothing

Order in Bulk

The larger the order, the more you save per unit. Planning ahead for seasonal events or multiple campaigns can reduce costs.

Choose Simpler Designs

A single-color screen print is far more affordable than complex, multi-layered designs. For uniforms or giveaways, simplicity often works best.

Pick the Right Fabric

Blends offer a balance between comfort and affordability, while performance fabrics should be reserved for athletic or specialized use.

Combine Apparel Types

Mixing lower-cost t-shirts with a smaller run of premium items like hoodies gives businesses flexibility while staying within budget.

Work with Local Printers

Partnering with a local Ottawa company like Colortex eliminates shipping costs, ensures faster turnaround, and supports Canadian jobs.


Why Ottawa Businesses Choose Colortex

At Colortex, we believe pricing should be transparent, fair, and tailored to business needs. Here’s why companies across Ottawa trust us for their custom clothing:

  • 100% Canadian-made: All apparel is designed and produced locally, ensuring top quality.

  • Flexible Pricing: From small runs to large-scale orders, we adjust pricing to maximize value.

  • Expert Advice: We help businesses choose the right fabric, printing method, and quantity for their budget.

  • Fast Turnaround: Being based in Ottawa means local businesses get their orders quickly and reliably.

By working with Colortex, businesses don’t just purchase clothing, they invest in a long-term branding solution.


Future Trends in Custom Clothing Pricing (2025 and Beyond)

Sustainable Materials at Competitive Prices

Eco-friendly fabrics like organic cotton and recycled polyester are becoming more affordable. Ottawa businesses can now align with sustainability values without stretching budgets.

Digital Printing Innovations

New printing technologies are reducing setup costs, making small orders more affordable.

Local Production Advantages

With supply chain disruptions in global markets, locally made clothing from companies like Colortex offers price stability and reliability.


Practical Tips for Ottawa Businesses in 2025

  1. Plan ahead – Last-minute orders often cost more.

  2. Ask for samples – Check fabric and print quality before large runs.

  3. Set a budget per garment – Decide how much you’re willing to spend per item.

  4. Mix price points – Combine affordable t-shirts with a smaller run of premium apparel.

  5. Work with local experts – Colortex helps optimize orders for both quality and cost.


Conclusion

Custom clothing pricing in Ottawa varies depending on fabric, printing method, order size, and design complexity. In 2025, businesses can expect t-shirts to range between $10–$20, polos between $20–$35, and hoodies between $35–$60, with premium items costing more.

For Ottawa businesses, investing in custom clothing is about more than cost; it's about long-term branding value, professionalism, and visibility. At Colortex, we proudly design and produce 100% Canadian-made apparel, offering tailored solutions that fit every budget. Whether you’re ordering 20 polos or 500 t-shirts, Colortex ensures your investment delivers both quality and impact.