Artwork Guide

You do not need a finished design to start an order. A rough sketch is enough, and our designers can take it from there. This guide explains what to send and how to get the best result on metal.

What you can send us

• Vector files (AI, PDF or CDR) give the cleanest result
• High-resolution PNG or JPG files also work
• A clear photo of a hand-drawn sketch is enough to start
• A picture of a product you like, as a reference for shape and finish

If you only have a low-resolution image, we can redraw it as vector artwork for you before the proof is made.

Free design help

From your sketch, logo or idea, our designers will refine your own drawing, create a design for you, or suggest a design based on what works well in production. This is free. 3D modelling and highly complex designs are charged separately, and we agree the fee with you first.

Colours

Colours are matched to Pantone references. If you have Pantone codes, send them with the artwork. Small differences between a screen, a print and a metal finish are normal, which is why we show a proof and a sample before production.

Smooth gradients cannot be filled with enamel, so they are made with printing instead. If your design needs a gradient, tell us and we will recommend the right finish.

Designing for metal

• Enamel colour sits between raised metal lines, so every coloured area needs a metal outline around it
• Very thin lines and very small text may not come out sharp, so keep text readable at the final size
• Fewer colours usually look cleaner and cost less than many small colour areas
• Tell us the plating you want, for example gold, silver, antique bronze or black nickel, so the artwork is drawn for that metal colour

Check your proof

The proof is the last chance to catch a mistake. Please check every word and number, the colours, the size and the finish. Production follows the proof you approve, and artwork errors that were approved on the proof are not covered by our warranty.

Logos and rights

You confirm that you own, or have permission to use, the logos, trademarks and artwork you send. Your designs are kept confidential and are never used for anything else without your permission, and we can sign a confidentiality agreement on request. We may decline an order that appears to infringe someone else’s rights.

Not sure what to send? Describe your project in a few lines and we will tell you what is missing. See also How It Works.