Art Work

Artwork Information & Design Charges

We often get asked why artwork, setup, or design comes at an additional cost. This page explains how artwork works and why it’s a crucial part of the print and embroidery process.

Choosing a product and selecting a design does not automatically mean the artwork is ready for production. Every print or embroidered item requires artwork to be correctly prepared for the method being used — whether that’s vinyl, digital print, DTF, or embroidery.

Artwork preparation takes time, skill, and specialist software, and this is where many of the unseen costs sit.

Why Artwork Isn’t Automatic

Images do not “magically” transfer into print or stitch-ready files.

Before production can begin, artwork must often be:

  • Checked for quality and resolution

  • Converted into the correct format

  • Cleaned, adjusted, or rebuilt

  • Scaled correctly for the garment or product

  • Prepared specifically for the production method chosen

Each production method has different requirements, and artwork suitable for one method may not be suitable for another.

Artwork for Print Production

For printed items (vinyl, digital print, DTF, signage, etc.), artwork may need to be:

  • Vectorised for clean edges

  • Colour-corrected for accurate results

  • Separated into layers

  • Adjusted for size and placement

Low-quality images, screenshots, or web images often need additional work before they can be used for professional printing.

Artwork for Embroidery

Embroidery requires artwork to be digitised, which is a specialist process.

Digitising involves:

  • Converting artwork into stitch data

  • Setting stitch types, directions, and densities

  • Adjusting for fabric movement and thickness

  • Testing and refining the file for a clean finish

This is not a quick conversion and must be done correctly to avoid poor stitch quality or garment damage.

Artwork Charges

Artwork and setup fees reflect the time, expertise, and software required to prepare files correctly.

Charges may apply for:

  • New artwork creation

  • Logo clean-up or redraw

  • Vectorisation

  • Embroidery digitising

  • File resizing or reworking for different products

  • Converting artwork for alternative production methods

Artwork costs vary depending on complexity and the production method required.

Reusing Artwork

Once artwork has been prepared, it can often be reused for future orders of the same type.

However, please note:

  • Print artwork cannot always be used for embroidery

  • Embroidery files cannot always be used for print

  • Resizing or changing garments may still require adjustments

Supplying Your Own Artwork

If you are supplying your own artwork, please ensure it is:

  • High resolution

  • In the correct format (where possible)

  • Clear, readable, and suitable for the chosen product

We will always advise if artwork is unsuitable and explain any additional work required before production.

Why This Matters

Correct artwork preparation ensures:

  • A professional finish

  • Accurate branding

  • Durable prints and stitches

  • Fewer errors and delays

  • Better value for your finished product

Cutting corners at the artwork stage often leads to disappointing results — something we always aim to avoid.

Need Help?

If you’re unsure about artwork, don’t worry — that’s what we’re here for.

We’ll always explain:

  • What’s required

  • Any costs involved

  • The best option for your product

📧 Email: a1colleen@gmail.com