Production-Ready Artwork Requirements

Following these requirements helps ensure accurate color reproduction, faster production times, and the highest-quality finished product.

Vector Artwork Required

  • Supply fully editable vector artwork.
  • Create artwork at the intended imprint size.
  • Convert all text and fonts to outlines.
  • Remove stray points, hidden objects, and unnecessary layers.
  • Embed or package all supporting vector assets.

Color Requirements

  • Convert all artwork colors to spot colors.
  • Label each color swatch with its corresponding Pantone® Solid Coated Matching System number.
  • Do not submit production artwork using unlabeled RGB or CMYK colors.

Using the Pantone® Solid Coated Matching System allows us to communicate color clearly and maintain greater consistency throughout the proofing and production process.

Editable Vector PDF Files

  • PDF files must retain fully editable vector information.
  • All fonts must be converted to outlines.
  • All design elements must remain scalable and editable.
  • Flattened PDF files are not considered production-ready.
  • Saving a raster image as a PDF does not convert it into vector artwork.

Artwork Setup

  • Create artwork at 100% of the intended imprint size.
  • Separate artwork colors using properly labeled spot-color swatches.
  • Include all required vector graphics and supporting assets.
  • Clearly identify the intended imprint location and dimensions.

Fonts and Text

  • Convert all fonts and text to outlines before submission.
  • Confirm all spelling, punctuation, and text placement.
  • Keep an editable copy of the original artwork in case revisions are required.

Proof Requirements

  • Include a PDF proof showing the intended artwork appearance.
  • Verify artwork size, placement, spelling, and colors.
  • Clearly identify the desired imprint location.
  • Every Color Tech order receives an artwork mockup for approval before production.

Raster Files Are Not Production-Ready

Raster files are not accepted as production-ready artwork. This includes:

  • JPG and JPEG
  • PNG
  • PSD and Photoshop files
  • TIFF
  • GIF and BMP
  • Screenshots
  • Images downloaded from websites or social media
  • Flattened Canva, Photoshop, or PDF exports

Raster files may be submitted only as visual reference or design direction. They must be professionally rebuilt as editable vector artwork before production. Artwork recreation or vector-conversion charges may apply.

AI-Generated Artwork

Artificial intelligence-generated artwork may be submitted for concept development or design direction only.

AI-generated images are not considered production-ready. They must be professionally recreated, vectorized, and prepared using professional vector-design software before they can be used in production.

Preferred Production File Types

AI EPS SVG VECTOR PDF

Professional Vector-Design Software

Professional vector-design software is required to create production-ready artwork.

Files created in Canva, Procreate, Adobe Photoshop, PowerPoint, Google Slides, mobile design applications, or AI image generators are not automatically considered production-ready.

Artwork from these applications must be professionally rebuilt and supplied as fully editable vector artwork with outlined fonts and properly labeled Pantone® Solid Coated spot-color swatches.

Production-ready files should be created using professional vector software such as Adobe Illustrator.