Preferred Artwork File Formats

For best results, we recommend supplying artwork in vector format.

Preferred vector formats:

- AI (Adobe Illustrator)

- EPS

- PDF (vector-based)

- SVG

 

Vector files allow artwork to be scaled without loss of quality and are suitable for most decoration methods.

 

Raster Artwork (Images & Photos)

Raster files such as JPEG, PNG or TIFF may be suitable for certain decoration methods (for example DTG, DTF or other full-colour processes), provided they meet the following requirements:

- supplied at actual print size

- minimum 300 dpi resolution

- clean edges and no visible pixelation

- backgrounds removed where the background is not intended to print (PNG format with a transparent background is required)

 

Low-resolution or poorly prepared raster artwork may require redraw or adjustment before production.

 

Fonts & Text

To avoid font substitution issues please ensure all fonts have been converted to outlines, or supply the font files with your artwork.

 

Outlined text ensures consistency across proofing and production.

 

Colour Specifications & Colour Systems

Artwork files may reference different colour systems, including:

- Pantone (PMS) (for production with Screen Printing, PMS colours will be matched)

- CMYK (for production with full colour printing processes, eg. DTF and DTG)

- RGB (not used in print production - must be converted to CMYK or PMS)

- HEX (not used in print production - must be converted to CMYK or PMS)

 

Please note:

Colours displayed on screens vary significantly between devices and should not be relied on as an accurate guide to final printed colour. Colour appearance will also vary depending on the decoration method and substrate or product being decorated.

 

Embroidery Colour Matching

For embroidery, supplied PMS or CMYK colours are matched to the nearest available thread colour. Thread colours are selected from stocked thread ranges, and exact colour matching is not always possible.

 

We’ll advise where adjustments are required to achieve the best visual outcome.

 

Artwork by Decoration Method

Different branding methods have different requirements. The following provides general guidance:

 

Screen Printing

- vector artwork preferred

- solid colours recommended and will be used in print production

- half-tones can be used to achieve gradient-style effects

- each colour requires a separate screen (plus a base screen when printing on dark coloured apparel)

- fine detail and small text may be limited depending on garment type and print size

 

Embroidery

- simplified artwork produces the best results

- minimum text height of 4 mm applies

- minimum line thickness applies

- gradients are not possible

- fine detail may need adjustment to suit stitch limitations

 

Artwork may be modified slightly during digitising (setup) to ensure a clean, durable embroidered result.

 

Direct to Garment (DTG)

- suitable for full-colour artwork and photographic images

- high-resolution raster or vector artwork required

- where backgrounds are not intended to print, artwork must be supplied as PNG with a transparent background

 

Direct to Film (DTF) / Transfer Prints

- supports full-colour artwork

- clean, high-resolution files required

- vector artwork preferred where possible

- where backgrounds are not intended to print, artwork must be supplied as PNG with a transparent background

 

Artwork Size, Scaling & Placement

Artwork may be supplied at the intended print size. Our design team will then check the supplied size and recommend the actual print size based on standard print sizes and the available print area for the specific product being decorated.

 

Maximum print sizes vary by product and decoration method. Final sizing and placement are confirmed during the proofing stage.

 

Artwork Scaling Across Sizes

Artwork is generally not scaled across varying garment sizes. If different print sizes are required for different garment sizes, additional setups will be required, and print costs are based on the number of prints per design and design size.

 

We’ll advise where this applies during quoting or proofing.

 

Artwork Proofs, Mock-Ups & Approval

Before production of your order a digital artwork proof is always supplied for your approval.

The proof shows:

- the artwork at actual decoration size

- the decoration method

- relevant colours (eg. thread colours, PMS colours and CMYK print format)

- an indicative mock-up showing artwork placement on the product

 

Please note:

Mock-ups showing the placement of logos — particularly for apparel branding — are indicative only. They show approximate placement and indicative relative sizing on the product and are not to scale.

 

The actual size logo layouts in the proof will be used for production purposes and any specific positional or placement requirements should be requested and if approved, added to the artwork proof accordingly for sign off prior to production. 

 

Actual positioning may vary slightly based on garment size, construction and production constraints.

 

Production only proceeds once written approval is received, even for repeat orders.

 

Additional Embroidery Proofs

For embroidery, a second proof showing the digitised version of the logo will be supplied for further approval prior to production.

 

If adjustments are required to accommodate embroidery limitations (for example minimum text size or removal of gradients), these will be shown on the digitised version of the logo in this second artwork proof.

 

This ensures you have visibility and approval of any necessary layout changes before stitching begins.

 

Please Note:

Timely approval of artwork proofs is important to meet agreed lead times.

 

Multiple Designs & Positions

If your order includes multiple designs, multiple print positions or different layouts per item, please supply separate artwork files, clearly labelled for each application.

 

Clear file naming and labelling helps prevent errors and speeds up production.

 

Artwork Adjustments & Redraw Services

If supplied artwork does not meet production requirements, minor adjustments may be made as part of setup, however more complex redraws or vectorisation may incur an additional charge.

 

We’ll always advise and seek approval before proceeding with any chargeable artwork services.

 

Supplying Artwork

Artwork may be supplied:

- via email

- through your quote request or online order confirmation

- via shared download links where required

 

Please include:

- order reference (if available)

- decoration method

- placement details

- colour references

- any sizing notes

 

In Summary

- Vector artwork produces the best results

- Raster artwork must be high-resolution and supplied correctly

- Backgrounds should be removed where not intended to print

- Colour systems differ between print methods

- Proofs and mock-ups are indicative and require approval

- Clear artwork helps avoid delays and unexpected changes

 

Need Help with Your Artwork?

If you’re unsure whether your artwork is ready for production, or would like advice before placing an order, please get in touch and send us what you have.

 

Our team will review your artwork and guide you through the most practical next steps.