Artwork Descriptions and Printing Techniques

We often get questions from clients about what format artwork needs to be in for printing, so we have put together a brief description file types and a list of commonly asked questions.

Artwork for print can be accepted in the following layout program formats:

Illustrator 10: Artwork should be saved as illustrator .eps or as .ai files . Please convert fonts to paths/outlines, otherwise attach relevant fonts.

Corel Draw 11: We can accept files in Corel Draw up to Version 11. Convert all text to curves or alternatively supply fonts. Remember: Once converted, fonts cannot be edited. Corel draw and illustrator imports a range of bitmap file formats: .jpg .gif .tif .bmp .eps .wmf .pcx

File Size
Artwork for print is usually vector art or 300dpi high resolution photoshop files. The higher the dpi (dots per inch of the supplied Bitmap) the better the reproduction.

Bitmaps & jpeg files created in photoshop or similar programs can be used for some printing applications, but are not recommended for good quality printing.

Commonly asked Questions

Can I use a graphic from my web page as artwork?
Generally, No. Your logo or artwork needs to be in one of the above common graphic formats or as a bitmap with a dpi of 300 to 600 or better. Images on the web are only 72dpi

Can I use a graphic created in Microsoft Word?
Generally, No. These graphics are usually too low resolution. See above item.

What resolution do I need?
You will get the best results if your logo or artwork is between 300-600 dpi. For embroidered items, 200 dpi is usually fine, but once again, the higher the dpi, the better the quality of artwork.

How will the colours of my logo look on an item?
Correct PANTONE colours will be matched to industry standards at all times, and where four colour process is used, a chemical proof will be produced to check the accuracy of the colours.

Do I need to worry about the quality of reproducing my logo?
If we have questions or feel we need better artwork from you, we'll call you with details immediately and offer additional help to avoid any unnecessary extra charges.

Can you print halftones?
Generally yes on most products, except on very small plastic items, dense surfaces such as stress-balls or heavily textured surfaces such as canvas and some plastics.

What does 'colour separated artwork' mean?
For multicolour imprints, each colour must be printed separately in black. The artwork should have small registration marks at each corner which allow the colors to be lined up so they print together correctly.

The following is a short description of some of the printing and decorating methods we offer at Wompro:

Blind Stamp - A process whereby a die is pressed into the surface of the material, resulting in a depressed imprint. This process is usually available on vinyl, leather and faux leather products.

Deboss - A process virtually identical to blind stamping, whereby a die is pressed into the surface of the material, resulting in a depressed imprint. This process is usually available on vinyl, leather and faux leather products.

Embroidery - A process whereby a computerized, embroidery machine stitches coloured threads into the material. This process is usually available on cotton, canvas, micro fiber, polyester, and nylon products.

Etched - A process whereby a photographic process prepares a film mask to etch into the glass or crystal product.

Laser Engraved - A process whereby a laser is used to burn an impression into the coated surface or basic material of an item. Available on silver or other metal products such as key tags, pens and picture frames.

Pad Print - A process whereby ink is applied directly to the surface of the product via a flexible silicone pad leaving a colour print to substrates of plastic, metal (including coated metals), vinyl, polyurethane, leather, glass, aluminium, stainless steel and wood. This process is suited to producing small, intricate designs to both 2 and 3-dimensional products.

Photo Transfer - A process where ink is printed on a transfer material such as paper, then applied to the surface of the material using heat and pressure. This process is usually available on canvas, cotton, and polyester products.

Silk Screen - Also called screen print, whereby ink is pressed through a fine mesh screen leaving a colour imprint on the surface of the material. This process is usually available on canvas, cotton, polyester, nylon, micro fibre and faux leather products, as well as ceramics, plastics and foam.

Film - We provide colour proofs and film for printed items. Clients are advised not to provide their own film due to the varied printing techniques associated with this industry. Please call to discuss.
Wompro can supply film and this will be charged accordingly.

Contact
joe@wompro.com

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We print using PANTONE® Licensed Printing Inks.  Please specify PANTONE® Colors when placing your order. 
 
Note that if PANTONE® Colors are specified, in order to ensure color accuracy we only use current editions of the PANTONE publications.  Please ensure you are also using the current editions by going to www.pantone.com or calling 201-935-5500.  Pantone, Inc. is not responsible for inaccuracies in color reproduction.  PANTONE Trademarks and Copyrights used with the permission of Pantone, Inc.  PANTONE® and other Pantone, Inc. trademarks are the property of Pantone, Inc.