Vector Files (Preferred)

Vector graphics allow our laser and printing systems to render clean edges at any scale without loss of quality.

• .AI (Adobe Illustrator)
• .EPS (Encapsulated PostScript)
• .SVG (Scalable Vector Graphics)
• .PDF (High-resolution print vector)

High-Res Raster Files

Raster images must be high-resolution (300 DPI or higher at final size) for sharp printing and engraving.

• .PNG (Transparent background)
• .JPG / .JPEG (High contrast black/white or high-res color)
• .TIFF / .PSD

1. Standard Laser Engraving Artwork

For standard (non-color) laser engraving, CO2 and fiber lasers operate on a 2-tone system (engraved vs. unengraved).

• Black & White Artwork: Black elements represent where the laser fires to etch the material. White or transparent areas are left unengraved.
• Natural Material Color: Standard laser engraving color is determined naturally by the material (e.g., natural wood grain burn, frosted glass etch, or silver metal under coated surfaces).
• Photos & Grayscale: Photographs and shaded graphics require laser dithering. Our graphics team will convert your photo into a laser-ready monochrome format prior to proofing.

2. Full-Color Printing & Custom Color Fills

We offer direct full-color printing, color-filled laser engravings, and custom printed graphics for select awards, plaques, and sports balls.

• Full-Color Submissions: Submit vector files (.AI, .EPS, .PDF) with fonts outlined, or high-resolution bitmaps (.PNG, .JPG) at 300 DPI or higher to ensure vibrant print quality.
• Color Matching (CMYK & Pantone): Full-color products are printed using CMYK ink processes. While we match colors as closely as possible to your digital art, slight shade variances may occur across different substrates (wood vs. metal vs. acrylic).
• Custom Color Fill Engraving: For deep laser-engraved glass, crystal, or metal items receiving accent paint fill (e.g., gold, silver, black, or white fill), please specify your preferred paint color in the order comments.
• Transparent Backgrounds: For printed items with non-rectangular logos, supply artwork on a transparent background (.PNG or vector) to avoid printing unintended white boxes around your artwork.

3. Text & Font Preparation

To ensure your typography renders accurately without font substitution issues:

• Convert Text to Outlines: When sending vector files (.AI or .EPS), convert all text to "outlines" or "curves" before exporting so font files don't need to be attached.
• Minimum Font Size: For optimal legibility, keep body text at 8pt or larger. Extremely thin fonts may burn away on natural wood or bleed together on small color prints.
• Standard Stock Fonts: If specifying text directly on our order form, our graphics team utilizes clean, industry-standard engraving and printing typefaces.

4. Free Digital Proofing

We want you to be 100% confident in your order before any materials are engraved or printed.

• 24-Hour Proof Delivery: Every custom order receives a digital proof via email within 24 business hours of placing the order.
• Production Holds: Production will not begin until you reply with written approval of the proof layout and color arrangement.
• Proof Inspection Checklist: Please inspect all spelling, layout alignment, dates, names, and color choices carefully. Once approved, items are produced exactly as shown on the approved proof.

5. Graphic Design & Artwork Assistance

Don't have a high-resolution vector logo or print file? We can help!

• Basic Cleanup (Free): Minor adjustments, simple text additions, or basic vector conversions are included with your purchase at no extra charge.
• Complex Vectorization & Colorizing: If you only have a low-resolution image, screenshot, or drawing, our design team can recreate your artwork into a clean, print- or laser-ready file for a nominal design fee.

Email Artwork: Sales@creativelasering.com  |  Call: (800) 581-6712