Artwork Requirements

ARTWORK GUIDE

Artwork Requirements for Custom Orders

Crisp, clean customization starts with the right file. Here’s what we need and why.

Quick test: Zoom in on your logo. If the edges stay crisp, it’s vector. If they get blurry or jagged, it’s raster.

Laser Engraving

Engraving burns the design into the material — no color is added. The result is the natural color of the substrate beneath the surface.

• Use a single-color, solid black version of your logo
• Avoid gradients, halftones, drop shadows, and photo effects — convert these to solid shapes
• Very fine lines and text under about 6 pt may not engrave cleanly
• Reverse-out (knockout) effects work well on darker substrates

Embroidery

Embroidery uses thread, so your artwork is converted into a stitch file (digitized) before production.

• Keep designs bold and simple — fine details get lost in stitching
• Minimum recommended text height: 1/4 inch (about 6 mm)
• Limit the design to 6 thread colors or fewer when possible
• Provide thread color callouts in Madeira or Isacord numbers if you have them, or Pantone equivalents

Etching

Etching creates a permanent frosted or recessed impression on glass and metal.

• Same rules as engraving — single-color, solid shapes work best
• Avoid hairline strokes and tiny serifs that may not hold detail
• Negative space matters — make sure enclosed areas (like the inside of an “O”) read clearly

Laser Print (UV & Color Laser)

Laser print reproduces full color directly on the product. Vector is still required for sharpness.

• Use CMYK color mode
• Include Pantone callouts for any brand colors that need to match exactly
• Let us know if your logo will be applied to a dark substrate — white ink underlays are available
• Keep the smallest text at 6 pt or larger for clean reproduction

What if I don’t have a vector file?

No problem. Our art department can vectorize most logos for a one-time art fee. We’ll send a digital proof for your approval before any production runs.

Can you grab my logo from my website?

Web logos are almost always low-resolution raster files and aren’t suitable for production. The original vector files usually live with your designer, marketing team, or whoever built your brand identity — that’s the best place to start.

My logo has a gradient, photo, or drop shadow. Can you reproduce it?

On laser print, often yes. On engraving, embroidery, and etching, effects like gradients and shadows need to be simplified to solid shapes. We’ll work with you to adapt the design and show you exactly what to expect on your proof.

How big will my logo be on the product?

Imprint sizes vary by item — a ball marker has very different real estate than a hat or a headcover. We confirm the exact size and placement on your digital proof before production begins.

Will I see a proof before production?

Always. Every custom order includes a digital proof showing placement, sizing, decoration method, and color. Production does not start until you approve it.

How should I send my files?

Email your vector files to your BirdieBox account manager or attach them to your order. For files over 25 MB, send a WeTransfer or Dropbox link.

Still Have Questions?

Reach out to your account manager or email us. We’re happy to review your file before you place an order so there are no surprises.