Artwork Requirements

Artwork Requirements

Quick start

  • Best file type: Vector CDR (CorelDRAW), curves converted, all links embedded.
  • Email for files only: art@apdesignpro.com
  • Subject line tip: Include your company name, PO number, and your AP Design rep if known.

Preferred file formats

  • Vector: CorelDRAW (.cdr) is ideal, Adobe Illustrator (.ai , .eps, .pdf) also OK.
  • Raster/Photos: .tif, .psd , .jpg, or .png at print quality.
  • Embroidery: Tajima .dst preferred, include a visual proof if you have one.

Vector art is always the cleanest result, it scales without losing sharpness.

Vector art setup

  • Convert all text to curves/outlines.
  • Expand strokes and effects when possible.
  • Embed or include any linked images.
  • Remove unused colors and hidden layers.
  • Save down to a commonly supported version if you are unsure.

Raster art setup

  • Supply at 300 dpi at 100 percent of final size or larger.
  • Large signage can work at 150 dpi at final size, ask if you are unsure.
  • Do not upscale small web images, this causes blur or pixelation.
  • If you scan art, scan as a separate file at 600 dpi or higher.

Color

  • Spot colors: provide PMS Solid Coated numbers when color matching matters.
  • Process color: set files to CMYK.
  • Screens look different than print, a hard proof or press sample may be required for critical matches.

Fonts and text

  • Convert fonts to curves/outlines.
  • If you cannot outline, include the font files with your art.
  • For raster files, rasterize type layers before sending to avoid font substitution.

Embroidery specifics

  • File: .dst preferred, .emb or .pxf accepted.
  • Include desired finished size, thread chart if known, and placement.
  • Existing hats or garments can change how small details sew, we will advise if edits are needed.

File delivery

  • Email attachments to art@apdesignpro.com.
  • For large files, send a share link via Dropbox, Google Drive, or WeTransfer.
  • Compress multi file projects as .zip to keep everything together.

What we cannot use

  • Word docs, PowerPoint, Keynote.
  • Page layout files like Quark or PageMaker.
  • Low resolution GIFs or screenshots.
  • Faxed art, photocopies, photos of business cards or letterheads.

Timing and revisions

Your turnaround can depend on art quality and change requests. Clean, print ready files move fastest. If we need to recreate or adjust artwork, we will confirm art charges before proceeding.

Helpful checklist

  • File is vector CDR or high resolution raster at final size.
  • All text outlined, strokes expanded, links embedded.
  • Colors set, PMS numbers provided if needed.
  • Embroidery files include size, thread info, and placement.
  • Files zipped if multiple items, named clearly.
  • Email sent to art@apdesignpro.com with company name, PO number, and your AP Design rep in the subject.

If anything here raises a question, send what you have, include the intended size and application, and we will guide you to the cleanest result.