Preparing your files correctly helps ensure the highest print quality and the fastest production time. Please review the guidelines below before submitting your artwork.
If you have questions or need assistance, our team is happy to help.
Accepted File Formats
For the best results, we recommend submitting vector artwork whenever possible.
Preferred file formats:
- AI (Adobe Illustrator)
- EPS
- PDF (Vector)
- SVG
We also accept:
Additional file formats may be accepted depending on the product.
Resolution
For printed products, artwork should be created at 300 DPI (dots per inch) at the final print size.
Lower-resolution images may produce:
- Blurry images
- Pixelation
- Jagged edges
- Reduced print quality
Avoid enlarging small images, as this decreases image quality.
Color Mode
For the most accurate printed colors:
- CMYK is recommended for print-ready files.
- RGB files are accepted but may be converted during production.
- Slight color variations may occur during RGB to CMYK conversion.
Because every printing process and material is different, exact color matching cannot be guaranteed unless specifically arranged in advance.
Bleed
Whenever artwork extends to the edge of the finished product, include bleed.
Recommended bleed:
- 0.125" (1/8") on each side for most printed products
Large-format products may require different bleed allowances. If bleed is not provided, minor white edges may appear after trimming.
Safe Area
Keep all important content inside the safe area. This includes:
- Text
- Logos
- QR codes
- Phone numbers
- Email addresses
- Important graphics
We recommend keeping important content at least 0.125" from the trim edge unless otherwise specified.
Fonts
To prevent font substitution:
- Convert fonts to outlines or curves whenever possible.
- If fonts are not outlined, include the font files when permitted.
Sports Gear Swag cannot guarantee matching fonts that are not embedded or supplied.
Linked Images
When submitting Adobe Illustrator, InDesign, or similar design files:
- Embed all linked images, or
- Include all linked image files with your submission.
Missing linked images may delay production.
Transparency & Effects
Some effects may reproduce differently during printing, including:
- Transparency
- Shadows
- Glow effects
- Blend modes
- Filters
- Layer effects
Flattening complex effects before submission may improve production accuracy.
Line Thickness
Very thin lines may not reproduce consistently on all products. Whenever practical, avoid extremely thin strokes, particularly on large-format products or textured materials.
QR Codes & Barcodes
When including QR codes or barcodes:
- Use high-resolution artwork.
- Maintain sufficient contrast between the code and background.
- Avoid resizing the code after it has been generated.
- Test all QR codes before submitting your artwork.
Customers are responsible for verifying that all QR codes, URLs, and barcodes function correctly before approving proofs.
Photographs
For the best print quality:
- Use original, high-resolution photographs.
- Avoid screenshots whenever possible.
- Submit the largest available image.
- Avoid excessive image compression.
Higher-quality photographs produce better printed results.
Logos
Vector logos provide the highest quality.
If vector artwork is unavailable:
- Submit the highest-resolution version available.
- Avoid logos copied from websites or social media.
Our design team may be able to recreate low-quality logos for an additional fee.
Product Dimensions
Artwork should be created at the final product size whenever practical. If artwork is submitted at a different size, clearly indicate the intended finished dimensions.
Proof Approval
When proofs are provided, customers are responsible for carefully reviewing:
- Spelling
- Grammar
- Colors
- Names
- Numbers
- Placement
- Sizing
- Overall layout
Production begins only after required approvals have been received. Approved proofs are considered final.
Large Files
If your artwork exceeds standard upload limits, you may be able to submit files using an alternative file-sharing method. If needed, please contact our Customer Service team for assistance.
Need Design Assistance?
Our design team can assist with:
- Logo recreation
- Artwork cleanup
- File conversion
- Background removal
- Custom layouts
- Graphic design
- Print-ready file preparation
Additional charges may apply depending on the requested services.
Related Resources
For additional information, please review our:
Contact Us
If you have questions about preparing your files or need assistance with artwork, we're here to help.
Sports Gear Swag
Website: Sports Gear Swag
Email: sales@sportsgearswag.ca
Phone: 1-833-301-6511
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