Vector Artwork Is the Safest Starting Point
Vector artwork can be resized without soft edges. It is preferred for screen printing, embroidery digitizing, laser engraving, debossing, labels, and packaging.
Recommended Artwork File Types
Send the best file you have. If a file is not production-ready, we can still review it and explain what needs to be adjusted before a quote, sample, or bulk order is confirmed.
| Use case | File types | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Best for production | AI, EPS, SVG, editable PDF, CDR | Vector artwork keeps edges sharp when the logo is resized for printing, embroidery, engraving, labels, or packaging. |
| Usually acceptable | High-resolution PDF, PNG, TIFF, PSD | Can work when size, resolution, transparency, and color are suitable for the selected decoration method. |
| Needs review first | JPG, screenshot, web logo, Word or PowerPoint image | Often too small, compressed, or missing transparent background. We may need to redraw or clean the artwork. |
| Packaging artwork | Editable PDF, AI, dieline file, barcode file | Useful for boxes, hang tags, inserts, sleeves, polybags, and carton marks. Dielines should stay editable. |
Vector Files vs Raster Images
Vector files are built from paths, so the logo remains sharp when resized. Raster images are built from pixels. A high-resolution raster file can work for some printing methods, but a small JPG copied from a website usually becomes blurry or jagged when enlarged.
If your logo includes text, send an editable vector file or outline the fonts before sending. Outlined text prevents the factory from seeing a substituted font when the file is opened on another computer.
Color Matching and Pantone References
Pantone or PMS references help control brand colors, but color can still change by material, surface color, ink absorption, coating, thread, lighting, and production method. A logo printed on white paper, black plastic, stainless steel, and woven fabric will not look identical.
For strict brand work, ask for a proof or physical sample before approving bulk production. For multi-color logos, confirm whether each color needs Pantone matching or whether a close visual match is acceptable.
Imprint Area, Small Text, and Line Width
Every product has a practical imprint area. Curved, textured, flexible, dark, or small surfaces may limit logo size and detail. Very small text, thin lines, gradients, and fine icons can fail even when the artwork file is technically clean.
When possible, send the desired logo size and placement, such as front center, left chest, handle side, cap front panel, box lid, hang tag, or carton mark. This makes proofing faster and reduces repeated layout changes.
Backgrounds, Transparencies, and White Logos
Transparent backgrounds are useful when the logo must be placed on a product mockup or packaging layout. If a white logo is placed on a transparent background, also send a preview image with a dark background so the logo can be checked visually.
Avoid sending only a screenshot with a colored background unless that background is part of the final print. The factory needs to know whether the background should be printed, removed, or treated as product color.
Packaging Artwork and Dielines
Packaging artwork should stay editable because boxes, sleeves, insert cards, labels, and hang tags often need dielines, bleed, barcode placement, safety text, origin labels, or carton mark rules. Send barcode files and SKU mapping separately if the order has multiple versions.
For private label or retail-style orders, approve a packed sample when packaging affects sale, receiving, or brand presentation.
Proof Approval Flow
1
Artwork Preflight
We check file type, logo edges, fonts, small text, color count, background, and expected decoration method.
2
Digital Proof
A layout proof shows logo position, approximate size, color reference, and product view before sampling or production.
3
Sample or Production Reference
For stricter orders, a physical sample or approved production reference becomes the standard for bulk goods.
4
Bulk Production Check
The factory compares production against the approved proof, sample, packing rule, and carton mark instruction.
Artwork Submission Checklist
- Logo file in vector format when available.
- Pantone or brand color reference for important colors.
- Desired logo size, position, and product side.
- Target decoration method if already known.
- Product color and material surface.
- Packaging files, labels, inserts, or barcode rules if needed.
- Deadline, quantity, and destination country for timing review.