At Pigg by Design, we work closely with our customers to ensure their artwork achieves the best possible results when printed or embroidered onto garments. To make the process smooth and efficient, here are a few tips to consider when supplying your artwork.
Supplying Your Artwork
To achieve the best results, always aim to provide the highest quality version of your logo or image. Ideally, this means vector files such as .ai, .eps, or .cdr formats with all fonts expanded or outlined to avoid any issues with missing fonts. Please note that converting a .jpg or .png file to a vector format using an online tool won’t create a true vector file. Resaving a .png as an .eps still leaves it as a raster image. If you’re unsure about raster versus vector files, feel free to reach out for clarification.
Mocking up your ideas in programs like Word, PowerPoint, or Paint is fine for sharing concepts, but the images within these files are usually not suitable for printing, as they’re often saved at a low resolution (72 dpi). Similarly, exporting a file as a .pdf from these programs doesn’t guarantee a print-ready format. For optimal results, we recommend files at 300 dpi or higher at the finished print size (or 150 dpi for larger formats).
If the file you send isn’t of suitable quality for printing or embroidery, we’ll contact you to discuss the best way forward. Unlike many online stores that simply print whatever they receive, we prefer to take the time to ensure the final product meets your expectations. Proofing files are welcome in .jpg or .png formats, allowing us to evaluate the design before moving forward, ensuring no surprises or hidden costs.
Customization Limitations
Certain designs may not be compatible with your chosen customization method. For example, embroidery may not work well with gradients or intricate details, and full-color sublimation isn’t feasible on Hi-Vis workwear. In such cases, we’ll collaborate with you to find an alternative solution that preserves your brand integrity and maintains our high standards.
Need Design Help?
If you don’t have a vector or high-resolution version of your artwork, we can recreate it for you. The cost depends on the complexity of the design—simple logos will be quicker and more affordable to recreate than intricate designs with custom fonts. A growing trend we’ve noticed is customers commissioning inexpensive logos from platforms like Fiverr and then needing us to vectorize the design. While there’s nothing inherently wrong with this, we always encourage fair compensation for creative work. Paying designers appropriately ensures high-quality, legally sound results.
Embroidery digitizing follows similar guidelines. Supplying a vector file simplifies the process, and our standard digitizing fee is £10. If your design has limitations—like excessive detail or too many colors—we’ll suggest adjustments to ensure the final result exceeds your expectations.
A Critical Reminder: Copyright & Stock Images
Please avoid sending screenshots or images downloaded from the internet. If you’re sourcing images from Google, it’s likely they’re copyrighted. Similarly, purchasing a .jpg from stock image sites like Shutterstock and using it as a logo isn’t acceptable. Even with paid licenses, stock images are not unique and cannot serve as a logo.
The same applies to fonts—ensure you have commercial rights to any fonts included in your designs. If we find that stock images or non-commercial fonts have been used, we’ll inform you and suggest you address this with your designer. We take these precautions to protect your brand and uphold industry standards.
Full Design Services
At Pigg by Design, we offer a complete design service—not just artwork preparation. Whether you need a logo, branding, or custom artwork, we’re here to help bring your vision to life.