Artwork Preparation Guide for Print, Apparel, Signage and Cutting

Short answer: good production artwork starts with a clean vector master, the right colour references, outlined text, and a clear idea of the final size and process. Always confirm the exact requirements with your printer, digitizer or machine operator, because they vary.

1. Start with a real vector master

Make sure the file contains vector shapes, not a pixel image saved inside an AI, EPS or PDF. A quick check: zoom in to 800% or more. Vector edges stay perfectly crisp, while pixel edges turn into squares. Read more in how to tell if a file is really vector.

2. Know the final size

Details that look fine on screen can disappear at production size. Thin lines, tiny lettering and small gaps are the usual problems. Tell your artwork partner the finished size: a 3 cm chest logo and a 3 m sign need different levels of detail.

3. Use the right colour references

• Print (CMYK): for full-colour printing processes.
• Spot colours (for example Pantone): for consistent brand colours, screen printing and some signage.
• RGB / HEX: for screens and the web.

Colours on screen never match print exactly. If colour accuracy matters, ask your printer for a physical proof. See CMYK, RGB and Pantone explained.

4. Convert text to outlines

If a printer doesn’t have your font installed, their software substitutes another one. Converting text to outlines (shapes) prevents this. Keep an editable copy with live text for future changes.

5. Clean up the file

Remove hidden objects, stray points and empty layers, close open paths, and avoid overlapping duplicate shapes. These cause problems in cutting, engraving and some print workflows. Our vector file cleanup service handles this when a file misbehaves.

Process checklists

Screen printing and apparel

• Solid, separate colour areas; avoid very fine gradients unless your printer supports them
• Minimum line and text sizes confirmed with the printer
• Number of colours known (it affects screens and cost)
• Colour separations confirmed with the printer before ordering

Related: screen printing artwork.

Embroidery

• Simplified shapes; very small text and thin lines are hard to stitch
• Clear outlines and limited colours
• Remember that stitch files (digitizing) are a separate step from vector artwork

Related: embroidery artwork.

Vinyl and craft cutting

• Closed paths only; no open lines unless they are intentional cut lines
• No overlapping duplicate shapes
• Details large enough to weed at the final size
• One colour per layer for multi-colour vinyl

Related: vinyl cutting artwork.

Laser engraving and CNC

• Clean geometry at true size, in the units your machine expects
• Separate cut lines from engrave areas, as your operator specifies
• SVG or DXF, depending on the software. See SVG vs DXF

Related: laser and CNC artwork.

Signage and large format

• Vector master for crisp edges at large sizes
• Confirm bleed, safe areas and colour references with the sign maker
• Check viewing distance: fine details may not be visible from far away

Related: signage vector artwork.

6. Ask your supplier these questions

• Which file formats do you accept?
• Which colour mode or spot colours should I use?
• Do you need text outlined?
• Do you need bleed or safe margins, and how much?
• What are the minimum line and text sizes for this process?
• Will I see a proof before production?

Keep the answers. They are exactly what an artwork partner needs to prepare your file correctly the first time. See also what to send your printer.