Send vector
A vector file — AI, EPS or PDF with the type outlined — is what a die or a screen is made from. It can be scaled to any size without losing an edge, which a JPEG or a PNG cannot.
A raster logo can sometimes be redrawn, and that is a job with a cost and a risk of a small difference. Sending vector avoids both.
Outline the type
If the type is live rather than outlined, it will reflow on a machine that does not have your font. Outlining is a single command and it removes an entire class of error.
Minimum sizes and hairlines
Fine hairlines and small type are where a mark fails first, and the limit depends on the method and the material — a deboss into leather holds less detail than a screen print on board.
Tell us the size the logo will actually be printed at, and we will say at artwork stage whether it will hold rather than after the die is cut.
One file per colour method
A logo that is foiled, a logo that is debossed and a logo that is screen printed are three different tools. If your mark uses more than one, we need to know which element goes to which method — and registration between them has to be planned.
Bleed and safe area
For printed boxes, artwork runs past the trim line and nothing important sits near it. Where a design has a border, be aware that a border is the hardest thing to trim evenly — a fraction of movement shows as an uneven frame.
At a glance
| Send | Why |
|---|---|
| Vector: AI, EPS or PDF | A die or screen is made from it directly |
| Type outlined | It will not reflow on a machine without your font |
| The size it prints at | So we can say whether the detail will hold |
| Which element, which method | Foil, deboss and print are three different tools |
| Bleed on printed work | Artwork runs past the trim; borders show any movement |
Frequently asked questions
What file format do you need?
Vector — AI, EPS or a PDF with the type outlined. A JPEG or PNG can sometimes be redrawn, at a cost and with a risk of small differences.
Why outline the type?
Live type reflows on a machine that does not have your font. Outlining removes that risk entirely.
How small can our logo be?
It depends on the method and the material. Tell us the printed size and we will say at artwork stage whether it holds.
Can one logo be foiled and debossed?
Yes, but they are two tools and registration between them has to be planned. Tell us which element goes to which method.
Tell us what you need
Tell us the piece, your brand and the quantity you have in mind. We’ll send photos of our work and one clear, all-in quote.