Go to the pros for your embroidered polo shirts

There are plenty of companies out there that will sell you embroidered polos, but the key is finding a company that will deliver a quality product on time, on budget and with top-notch customer service.

I recommend: Several members of the Promotional Products Association International are certified as a Master Advertising Specialist (MAS) or Certified Advertising Specialist (CAS). Look for 2006 MAS and CAS designees here. For a directory of companies that can help you create promotional polo shirts, visit Business.com.

Make your custom polo shirts a popular standout

If you want your shirts to be worn (and why wouldn’t you?) choose a fabric color that will get attention in a positive way, portray an image of professionalism, and hold up well after several launderings. Make sure that the color of your embroidered logo works well with the shirt color you select too.

I recommend: Check out the wide variety of business embroidered polo shirts available from Custom Ink, Berda, Superior Promos, SweetPromos, L.L. Bean and Uber Prints. Find more corporate apparel  suppliers at Business.com. If you already have a logo in specific Pantone (or PMS) colors, be sure you make this known when ordering. (This is also a handy reference chart if you are color-challenged).

Choose quality embroidered polo shirts

Because you want your custom polos to positively reflect your company’s image, aim for quality fabric and shirt construction whenever possible. Essentials to look for: a heavier weight, top-stitched seams and blended fabrics (for better color retention and easier care).

I recommend: Review this glossary of fabric terms for custom apparel from Ace-Companyshirts.com, which offers a wide variety of custom embroidered polo shirts. The vendor also offers a sizing chart to help you choose the best sizes.

Know what your logo will look like on an embroidered polo shirt

The logo that works just fine on your letterhead and business cards will probably look different as an embroidered logo on your polo shirt, because embroidered logos are three-dimensional. Make sure you know in advance what your logo will look like, and whether adjustments to the artwork are necessary. Ask too about extra charges if your logo design requires more than a specified number of stitches.

I recommend: Custom Ink will look over your artwork and suggest alterations to adapt it to embroidery. L.L. Bean will send you a sample of your embroidered logo for approval before you purchase. The Queensboro Shirt Company offers a Free Logo Evaluation to confirm that your logo qualifies for their no-set-up-charge conversion of your standard logo to an embroidered logo. For more custom shirt suppliers, visit Business.com.

Design a polo shirt online

It’s easy to design custom polos online. All you have to do is choose a shirt, add text and add a logo if desired. Some suppliers even offer free embroidered stock logos you can use.

I recommend: Check out the design features offered by DesignAShirt, LogoSoftWear (you can upload your own logo), Customized Embroidery, and Uber Prints.