Artwork Guidelines
Artwork Requirements & Specifications
Great products start with great artwork. Follow these guidelines for the best possible imprint results — and remember, our art department is always here to help at no extra charge.
Accepted File Formats
Vector files are always preferred for the sharpest results
Adobe Illustrator (.AI)
Best for all imprint methods. Native vector format preserves scalability and editability.
Encapsulated PostScript (.EPS)
Universal vector format. Ensure all fonts are converted to outlines before saving.
PDF (Vector-based)
Excellent when exported from vector software. Ensure fonts are embedded or outlined.
Photoshop (.PSD)
Acceptable for 4-color process and UV digital. Must be 300 DPI minimum at actual print size.
High-Res JPEG / PNG
Minimum 300 DPI at print size. PNG preferred for logos with transparency. Not ideal for spot-color methods.
SVG
Scalable vector format. Great for web-originated artwork. Ensure all text is converted to paths.
Resolution Requirements
- Vector art (AI, EPS, SVG, PDF): Infinitely scalable. Always the best choice for logo reproduction.
- Raster art (PSD, JPEG, PNG, TIFF): Minimum 300 DPI at actual print size. Higher is better.
- Web images (72 DPI): Not suitable for print. Images will appear pixelated and blurry when enlarged.
Color Modes
- PMS (Pantone): Required for spot-color methods (silkscreen, pad print). Provides exact, reproducible brand colors. We offer free PMS matching.
- CMYK: Used for 4-color process printing and UV digital. Supports gradients, photographs, and unlimited colors.
- RGB: Screen color mode — not suitable for print. Colors will shift when converted to CMYK or PMS.
Artwork Checklist
Quick reference for submitting production-ready artwork
Do This
- Submit vector files (.AI, .EPS, .PDF) whenever possible
- Convert all fonts to outlines or paths before sending
- Provide PMS (Pantone) color codes for spot-color imprints
- Supply artwork at 300 DPI minimum for raster files
- Include a visual reference of the expected result
- Send the highest resolution file you have available
Avoid This
- Submit low-resolution images from websites (72 DPI)
- Send Word documents, PowerPoint slides, or screenshots as artwork
- Use RGB color mode for print-destined artwork
- Embed images in Word or email — attach original files instead
- Assume colors on screen will match the printed output exactly
- Use effects like drop shadows or gradients for spot-color methods
Artwork by Imprint Method
Each decoration method has specific artwork requirements
Silkscreen
Vector art required. Each color is a separate screen — keep to 1-4 spot colors. No gradients or halftones.
Color: PMS (Pantone) spot colors
Resolution: Vector (infinite scalability)
Pad Print
Vector art preferred. Fine detail reproduces well. Keep to 1-4 spot colors. Avoid large solid fills on small items.
Color: PMS (Pantone) spot colors
Resolution: Vector preferred
4-Color Process (CMYK)
Full-color images, photographs, and gradients welcome. Raster art at 300 DPI minimum. Vector art also accepted.
Color: CMYK
Resolution: 300 DPI minimum (raster) or Vector
UV Digital Print
Supports full-color and photographic art. Ideal for short runs with variable data. 300 DPI minimum for raster.
Color: CMYK or PMS
Resolution: 300 DPI minimum (raster) or Vector
Laser Engraving
Single-color vector art required. No color fills — the laser reveals the material beneath. Fine lines and detail engrave beautifully.
Color: Single color (engraved tone varies by material)
Resolution: Vector required
Embossing / Debossing
Bold, simple vector artwork works best. Avoid very fine lines or small text — the dimensional press cannot reproduce extreme detail.
Color: No color (dimensional impression)
Resolution: Vector required
How to Send Artwork
- 1Include artwork files when submitting your quote request through our contact form
- 2Your account representative can provide a secure upload link for large files
- 3We accept files via cloud storage links (Google Drive, Dropbox, WeTransfer, etc.)
Free Art Assistance
Do not have production-ready artwork? No problem. Our in-house art department will:
- Vectorize your logo from any source file
- Clean up and optimize artwork for your chosen imprint method
- Create a virtual proof for your approval
- Adjust colors to match your PMS specifications
- Resize and reformat artwork to fit the imprint area
All art services are complimentary with your order. Some specialty items and complex artwork may carry an art charge; your quote will confirm before production.
Need Help With Your Artwork?
Our art department is standing by to assist. Send us what you have and we will take it from there — at no extra charge.