Why We Need Vector Artwork for Promotional Merchandise
When it comes to printing your logo or design onto promotional merchandise, having the right type of artwork is essential for getting the best possible results. Here’s a quick breakdown of why we need your artwork in vector format – and what that means if you’re not a designer!
Step 1: Ensure Your Artwork is in Vector Format
Before we can print your design, it’s important to make sure your artwork is in vector format. Vector artwork is created using design software like Adobe Illustrator and typically saved as .ai, .eps, .svg or .pdf files.
Unlike standard image files (such as JPEGs or PNGs), vector files can be resized to any size – from a tiny pen to a large banner – without any loss in quality. This means your logo will always print cleanly and look professional on any item.
Step 2: Convert Fonts to Outlines
When your artwork includes text, the fonts must be converted into outlines. This simply means the text becomes a shape, rather than editable text. That way, even if we don’t have your font on our system, we can still print it exactly as intended.
If fonts aren’t outlined, our software might replace them with something else – which could completely change the look of your logo or message!
Step 3: Provide Colour References (Pantone)
To ensure colour consistency, especially for solid colours (known as spot colours), we need your Pantone colour codes. Pantone is a universal colour system used in the print industry. It helps us match your brand colours exactly, whether we’re printing on a mug, a bag, or a t-shirt.
If your artwork uses gradients or shading, we may need to use a different print process (like digital or dye-sublimation), which relies on CMYK colours. In those cases, exact Pantone matching isn’t always possible – but we’ll get as close as we can.
Artwork FAQ
Vector files can be scaled up or down without any loss of quality – so your artwork looks sharp on all products, big or small. Raster files like JPEGs or PNGs can look blurry or pixelated when resized, especially on larger items.
That’s totally fine – we can still print it! But different artwork requires different printing methods. For gradient designs, we’ll use digital or dye-sublimation printing, which works with CMYK colours. This means:
Pantone matching may not be exact
But we’ll always aim for the closest visual match possible
Usually, the difference is barely noticeable.
If you’re using Adobe Illustrator or similar software, there’s an option to “Create Outlines” for your text. If that’s not something you can do:
Ask the person who created the artwork.
Or, send us your brand guidelines (these often include font names and colours), and we’ll sort it out for you.
Still stuck? No worries – just get in touch with our team. We’re happy to help!
This covers small edits such as resizing, repositioning, colour changes, and adding your logo to a product template. It may also include converting files to a print-ready format and creating outlines around fonts, depending on the artwork provided.
If you do not have vector artwork, you will need a graphic designer to redraw your artwork for you.
We offer this service, and the cost varies depending on the complexity of your artwork. Typically, logo redraws range from £25 to £45+vat. Please send your artwork to us for an accurate quote.
Still Need Help?
We know artwork files can be confusing. If you’re unsure about anything, just reach out. Our friendly team is always here to guide you through the process and make sure your promotional merchandise turns out perfectly.