At Trinity Sign & Print, the correct artwork format depends on the branding method selected for your product. Some branding methods require vector artwork, while others can work from high-quality image files.

Sending the correct artwork from the start helps avoid delays, redraw charges and poor branding results. If you are unsure whether your file is suitable, send it to us and we will check it before production.

Before You Upload Artwork

Please make sure:

• you send the highest quality file available

• your artwork matches the branding method chosen

• text is converted to curves or outlines where possible

• colours are clearly supplied

• any product template or branding guide is followed exactly

• important text and logos are kept within the safe branding area

Which File Types Are Best?

The best files to send are:

• AI

• EPS

• editable PDF

• CDR

• high-resolution PNG

• high-resolution JPG

Please note that a PDF is not automatically a vector file. A PDF can contain either vector artwork or a low-resolution image. The quality of the artwork inside the file still matters.

Branding Methods and Artwork Requirements

Screen Printing

Screen printing works best from vector artwork. This method is ideal for simple logos and designs with clearly defined colours.

Best files:
AI, EPS, editable PDF or CDR

Best suited for:
logos, wording and simple artwork with solid colours

Please note:
Very fine lines and tiny detail may not reproduce well. Pantone colours should be supplied where colour matching is important.

Pad Printing

Pad printing should also be supplied in vector format. This method is commonly used on smaller promotional items and works best with simple, clean artwork.

Best files:
AI, EPS, editable PDF or CDR

Best suited for:
simple logos, icons and text

Please note:
Very small detail may not print clearly.

Embroidery

Embroidery is more flexible and can often be produced from a high-quality image file, although clean vector artwork is still preferred where available.

Best files:
high-resolution PNG, JPG, PDF, AI, EPS or CDR

Best suited for:
logos and wording that are not too fine or detailed

Please note:
Very small text, thin outlines and intricate detail often need to be simplified for embroidery.

Debossing and Foiling

Debossing and foiling should be supplied in vector format. These methods work best with clean, bold artwork.

Best files:
AI, EPS, editable PDF or CDR

Best suited for:
simple logos, initials, wording and bold linework

Please note:
Small detail and busy artwork may not reproduce well.

Laser Engraving

Laser engraving should be supplied in vector format and is best for clean line artwork and simple text.

Best files:
AI, EPS, editable PDF or CDR

Best suited for:
line art, simple logos and text

Please note:
Large solid filled areas and heavy background fills are generally not suitable for laser engraving.

Digital Transfers, Full-Colour Transfers and Sublimation

Digital branding methods are more flexible and can usually work from high-quality image files, although vector artwork is still preferred where possible.

Best files:
high-resolution PNG, JPG, PDF, AI, EPS or CDR

Best suited for:
full-colour logos, gradients, photographic elements and more complex artwork

Please note:
Low-resolution screenshots or poor-quality web images are not suitable.

Large Format Printing and Display Products

For gazebos, banners, flags, pull-up banners, display walls and similar products, artwork should be supplied exactly to the product template where one is provided.

Best files:
print-ready PDF built to the supplied template

Please make sure:

• all fonts are converted to curves

• artwork is set up in CMYK

• important text and logos stay inside the safe area

• bleed, trim and fold lines are followed correctly

• artwork is not placed in restricted areas shown on the template

Artwork for Products With Branding Guides

Some products include a branding guide or artwork template. If your product has one, please use it.

These guides are there to show:

• the correct branding position

• the maximum branding size

• safe areas

• fold, cut or seam restrictions

• any special setup instructions for that product

If a template is supplied, please do not ignore it. Following the template helps prevent production problems and ensures the artwork is set up correctly.

What If I Only Have a JPG or PNG?

That depends on the branding method.

A high-quality PNG or JPG may be suitable for:

• embroidery

• sublimation

• digital transfers

• certain full-colour digital branding methods

A PNG or JPG is  not suitable for:

• screen printing

• pad printing

• debossing

• foiling

• laser engraving

If your chosen branding method requires vector artwork and you only have a low-quality image, the artwork may need to be redrawn before production can begin. We can quote you on redrawing. Just ask!

What Is Vector Artwork?

Vector artwork is artwork created in programmes such as Adobe Illustrator or CorelDRAW. It can be resized without losing quality and is usually required for most traditional branding methods.

Common vector file types:

• AI

• EPS

• CDR

• editable PDF

Vector artwork is the best option for clean, sharp branding.

Why Can’t I Just Send a Screenshot?

Screenshots, copied website images and low-resolution files usually do not have enough quality for professional branding. They may look fine on a screen but often become blurry, rough or unusable when prepared for production.

For the best result, please send the original artwork file wherever possible.

Text Size and Fine Detail

Not all branding methods can reproduce very small text or extremely fine detail.

As a general rule:

• keep text clear and readable

• avoid very thin lines

• avoid tiny outlines

• simplify overly detailed logos where needed

If we feel your artwork may not reproduce well on the chosen product or method, we will advise you before production.

Colour Information

If colour accuracy is important, please provide your brand colours clearly.

Where possible, send:

• Pantone references for spot colour branding

• CMYK values for print artwork

• a visual reference if needed

Please note that colours may vary slightly depending on the branding method, material and product surface.

Artwork Approval

Branding only starts once artwork has been approved.

If a visual proof is supplied, it is the customer’s responsibility to check:

• spelling

• layout

• colours

• branding position

• overall design

Please check approval artwork carefully before giving final sign-off.

Need Help With Your Artwork?

If you are not sure whether your file is suitable, email it to us @ info@trinitysignandprint.co.za  and we will check it for you.

We are happy to advise whether:

• your file is ready to use

• a better file is needed

• the artwork should be redrawn

• a different branding method would be better for your design