Artwork preparation is one of the most useful opportunities to prevent confusion before an apparel order reaches production. The source file, intended dimensions, color references, and garment all help determine how the design can be reproduced.
At Merchcraft in Santa Ana, artwork review connects the graphic with the production method. For screen printing programs in Costa Mesa, Irvine, and Huntington Beach, or embroidery projects in Newport Beach and Laguna Beach, the goal is the same: a clear brief and an approved production version of the design.
Vector artwork and why it is useful
Vector artwork describes shapes using paths rather than a fixed grid of pixels. This makes it useful for scaling logos, adjusting shapes, and preparing defined colors. However, a file extension alone does not prove that the artwork inside is vector. An AI or PDF file can also contain an embedded raster image.
Useful source formats include Adobe Illustrator files, EPS, vector PDF, and SVG. Share the original design file where available, including linked artwork or a packaged version when needed. Outline lettering in a production copy or discuss font requirements before sending files that depend on unavailable fonts.
When the artwork is a raster image
Photographs and many detailed illustrations are naturally pixel-based. PNG, TIFF, PSD, or a high-quality JPEG can be appropriate depending on the artwork and printing method. What matters is the actual pixel information available at the intended output size, not only the DPI number stored in the file.
Changing a low-resolution image's DPI setting does not create missing detail. As an example, a 3,000-pixel-wide image provides 300 pixels per inch at 10 inches wide. Whether that is suitable still depends on the design, print process, and desired result. Share the highest-quality original for review rather than a screenshot or a compressed messaging attachment.
Confirm the garment and print dimensions
Tell the production team which garment, color, and fabric will be used. Include the intended dimensions of each placement. A large back illustration and a small chest logo may need different production versions even when they belong to the same collection.
Use our print placement and sizing guide to organize those decisions. A mockup communicates layout, but the garment and final dimensions determine what must actually be reproduced.
Color specification for screen printing
Provide brand color references when consistency matters. Pantone references can help communicate the target, but the ink system, garment color, and fabric influence the final appearance. Our Pantone matching guide explains what to review.
Keep editable layers and original artwork when available. The production team can assess color separations, underbases, tonal effects, and any additional preparation. Do not assume that the number of colors visible on a screen directly equals the number of screens required for the job.
Gradients and tonal artwork can be suitable for screen printing when prepared appropriately. Rather than removing them automatically, discuss how halftones or another production approach will affect the visual result. The color separation guide provides more detail.
Artwork for embroidery
An embroidery file contains instructions for stitching, not just an image of the logo. A clear vector or high-quality raster original helps with the design review, but digitizing still has to account for fabric, placement, scale, and thread construction.
Small lettering and fine lines should be assessed against the intended application. There is no universal size threshold that guarantees clean reproduction on every cap, polo, or jacket. Share simplified logo versions where available and agree on any adjustments before production. Our embroidery digitizing guide explains that process.
Build a complete submission
- Send the highest-quality original artwork, preferably editable where appropriate.
- Identify the exact logo version and confirm spelling.
- Specify garment style, color, sizes, and quantities.
- Provide dimensions and locations for each decoration.
- Include brand color references and any existing approved physical sample.
- Identify the in-hand date and finishing or packaging needs.
- Keep one person responsible for consolidated approval feedback.
Keep the approved production version identifiable
Save the final proof, file name, dimensions, color references, and garment specification together. A later revision should be clearly distinguished from the approved version. When reordering, confirm whether changes in the blank or production method require another review.
For projects combining garments and methods, planning the complete apparel program makes it easier to keep those details consistent. Include any sampling requirements in the quote rather than assuming a physical sample is automatically provided.
Send the file before guessing what needs to be rebuilt
A file does not need to be perfect before the first conversation. It needs to show the intended design and come with enough information to assess the project. Send your artwork to Merchcraft in Santa Ana for review alongside your garments, quantity, and deadline.
