Artwork & File Preparation Guidelines
Well-prepared artwork helps produce sharp prints and accurate cuts. Send your artwork for review and approve the digital proof before production.
1. Accepted File Formats by Product Type
- Storefront Signs, 3D Illuminated Letters & Custom-Cut Shapes:
True Vector Path Files Required: .AI (Adobe Illustrator), .EPS, vector .PDF, or .SVG. Laser cutters and CNC routers require mathematical closed vector paths to cut stainless steel, aluminum, and acrylic; standard raster images (JPG/PNG) cannot be used directly for 3D cutting. - Photo Prints, Vinyl Banners, Lightbox Graphics & Trade Show Fabrics:
Vector formats (.PDF, .AI, .EPS) are preferred, and high-resolution raster formats (.TIFF, .PSD, high-res .JPG or .PNG) are also fully supported.
2. Large-Format Resolution & Scaling Standards
Use the table for printed raster artwork. Cut-to-shape storefront decals need vector cut paths. Choose the resolution for your canvas scale and viewing distance. For close-viewing lightbox and photo prints, use 150–300 DPI at 1:1 actual size — the upper end of the range for the sharpest result at close range.
| Canvas Scale | Recommended Output Resolution (DPI) | Typical Product Applications |
|---|---|---|
| 100% Full Size (1:1 Actual Size) | 100 – 150 DPI | Outdoor banners, printed storefront decals, trade show backdrops, and feather flags (Most recommended — sharp output with manageable file size) |
| 50% Half Scale (1:2 Scale) | 200 – 300 DPI | Extra-large building facade graphics and wide exhibition backdrops |
| 25% Quarter Scale (1:4 Scale) | 400 – 600 DPI | Massive outdoor hoardings and extra-long banners |
| Close-Viewing Photo Prints & Edge-Lit Light Boxes | 150 – 300 DPI (at 1:1 Actual Size) | Indoor slim light boxes, close-range window posters, and counter graphics |
3. Outlining Fonts & Closing Vector Paths
- Convert All Fonts to Outlines / Curves: Before saving your final file, select all text and convert it to outlined paths (Command/Ctrl + Shift + O in Illustrator). This prevents font substitution or layout shifts if our workstations do not have your custom font installed.
- Embed Linked Images: If you place raster photos inside an .AI or .PDF file, be sure to check “Embed Images” to help prevent missing images when the artwork is opened.
4. Safe Zones, Bleed & Finishing Margins
- Banner Grommet Safe Zone: Banner edges are finished with double-folded heat-welded hems and punched with metal grommets. Keep all important text, phone numbers, QR codes, and logos at least 1.75 inches (4.4 cm) inside the trim edge so they are not punched through by grommets.
- SEG Frameless Lightbox & Display Fabric Bleed: Fabric graphics require silicone strips or zippers sewn along the perimeter. Extend your background design 0.5 – 1 inch (1.3 – 2.5 cm) beyond the finished net size on all four sides as bleed, and avoid leaving white borders.
- Minimum Stroke Width for 3D Illuminated Letters: To house our tier-1 branded internal LED modules and ensure even front/back illumination, the narrowest stroke width of 3D illuminated letters should be at least 0.6 inches (15 mm).
5. Color Mode & Backlit Lightbox Calibration
- Use CMYK Color Mode: Prepare all print and graphic files in CMYK mode. If RGB files are submitted, industrial RIP software will automatically convert them, which may darken neon or highly saturated blue/green tones.
- Pantone Matching: If your brand identity requires strict color accuracy, please note the corresponding Pantone (PMS) Solid Coated code in your order notes.
- Backlit Lightbox Graphics: For illuminated lightbox prints, our workshop automatically applies high-ink-density double-strike or UV backlit profiles to ensure rich, vibrant colors both unlit during the day and illuminated at night and help reduce a washed-out appearance.
6. Free Pre-Press Review & Digital Proofing
Not sure if your file meets the requirements? Send it anyway and we will check it. Our pre-press engineers check resolution, verify dimensions, and inspect bleed margins free of charge before any order enters production, and will email you a clear Digital Proof. Our factory only starts production after you confirm and approve the proof.