Artwork Guidelines | Midas Print Press

Providing properly formatted vector artwork guarantees razor-sharp edges and exact color fidelity across laser engravers, embroidery machinery, and screen presses. Review our submission criteria below before uploading files during online customization or ordering.

Acceptable File Formats

Our automated production systems work directly with vector paths for high-speed laser etching and film output. Files uploaded via our interactive visual customizer or design gateway are processed according to format class:

Preferred Vector Formats

Essential for Laser Engraving, Screen Printing, and Vinyl Cutting. Infinitely scalable without quality loss.

.AI (Adobe Illustrator)

.EPS (Encapsulated PostScript)

.SVG (Scalable Vector Graphics)

.PDF (Vector-based)

Secondary Raster Formats

Accepted for Full-Color Sublimation, DTG Apparel, and Digital Proofing. Must be 300 DPI minimum at 100% scale (Max file size: 15–20 MB).

.PNG (Transparent Background)

.JPG / .JPEG (High Quality)

.WEBP

.PSD (Photoshop, Layers Intact)

Resolution & Print Scale

For raster graphics (PNG, JPG, WEBP, PSD) submitted for full-color digital printing:

Files must be created at 300 DPI or higher at the actual physical print size.
Avoid upscaling 72 DPI web screenshots in editing software, as this introduces pixelation and blur.
Ensure full-bleed plaque prints include an extra 0.125" bleed margin around all edges.

Color Modes & Engraving

Ensure your document's color profile matches the target manufacturing method:

Laser Engraving: Artwork must be 100% Solid Black & White (No gradients, drop shadows, or color halftones).
Screen Printing: Specify solid spot colors or provide Pantone (PMS) Solid Coated numbers.
Full-Color / Sublimation: Build document artwork in CMYK color space to prevent RGB-to-print shift.

Typography & Font Outlines

When providing vector files (.AI, .EPS, .PDF) that include text, convert all type layers into outlines:

                            In Adobe Illustrator: Select all text layers and press Shift + Ctrl + O (or Cmd + Shift + O on Mac) > Type > Create Outlines.
                        

Alternatively, use our online customizer fonts (EB Garamond, Lato, Arial, etc.) to ensure seamless layout rendering.

Line Weight & Fine Details

Maintain minimum structural tolerances so fine details translate clearly:

Screen Printing: Minimum line weight is 1.5 pt; minimum text size is 10 pt.
Laser Engraving: Minimum line weight is 0.5 pt. Avoid intricate micro-patterns that could burn together.
Apparel Embroidery: Text must be at least 0.25" tall to stitch cleanly without bunched thread.

100% Digital Proof Approval Guarantee

Never worry about mistakes. Every custom product order enters a mandatory pre-production review status (proof_required). Our pre-press specialists inspect your uploaded artwork, optimize vector lines, generate a digital proof mockup, and notify you via email.

You can review the proof online in your Order Details page and approve it or request adjustments with 1-click confidence before any physical item is laser-etched or printed.

In-House Design Team

Need Custom Graphic Assistance?

Our in-house design experts can vectorize your raster logos, arrange complex award layouts, or prep files for production with free digital proofs.

Submit Design Request Browse Catalog