What we check before production starts
Our artwork checking service is the first step for screen printing, digital printing and signage jobs that need clean output and correct sizing. We look at the practical side of your file, not just how it appears on a monitor. If the artwork is too small, too thin, too detailed or set up with the wrong colours, we flag it early and tell you what needs changing.
For Durban and KZN clients, this matters when artwork is coming from schools, clubs or businesses that may have old logos, low resolution images or files passed around in different formats. We check whether the artwork is suitable for T-shirts, caps, banners or signage, and whether it can be separated for the print method being used. If needed, we also prepare notes for the next stage so the production team can move quickly.
- Artwork size and scaling for the final print area
- Line weight and detail for screen exposure or digital output
- Colour count and whether spot colours or process colours are needed
- Image resolution, clarity and edge quality
- Suitability for cotton, polyester, caps, vinyl or banner material
How the file review process works
Once your file comes through the enquiry form, we review it and check the basics first. That includes artwork dimensions, background treatment, font outlines, placed images and whether the file opens correctly for production. If a file is not press-ready, we let you know what must be corrected before we move ahead. This saves time and helps avoid waste on screens, ink and substrate.
The next step is to match the artwork to the job. A large banner for a sports day is handled differently from a small left-chest logo or a cap front. We look at the print area, the number of colours, and whether the design needs vector redrawing or colour separation. Our in-house team can then guide the job toward screen making, film output or digital printing, depending on the run size and finish required.
- Initial file receipt and basic opening check
- Size, resolution and layout review
- Line weight and detail assessment
- Colour and separation check
- Feedback sent with clear next steps
Spec points we use to judge print suitability
Good artwork checking is about more than saying yes or no. We use production specs that suit local printing conditions in Umbilo, Durban, where humidity, heat and turnaround pressure can affect results. If the file is for screen printing, we look for clean edges, strong contrast and enough thickness in fine elements so they do not break up on press. For digital printing, we check whether the resolution is high enough for a sharp finish and whether the colour profile will reproduce cleanly.
As a working guide, small text should be readable at final size, thin line work should not disappear, and colour blocks should have enough depth to hold up on fabric or board. For dark garments or tricky surfaces, we also check underbase needs and whether the design may need tweaks to keep the print bright. If the file is for a club run or school event, we make sure repeat jobs can be matched later without confusion.
- Minimum detail checks for fine type and thin graphics
- Resolution review for photographic or shaded images
- Colour separation suitability for multi-colour screen work
- Print area confirmation for chest, back, cap or signage placement
- Consistency check for repeat orders and reprints
Turnaround times and job planning
Most artwork checks are turned around quickly, often within the same working day if the file is complete and clear. If we find a problem that needs vector redrawing, colour separation or a full cleanup, the timing depends on how complex the artwork is and how many changes are needed. Larger school, club or business orders may take a bit longer because we also check how the artwork will perform across multiple sizes and applications.
When there is pressure from an event date, we plan backward from the print date so no one is left scrambling at the last minute. That is especially useful for Durban Central, Westville, Pinetown and Ballito clients who need courier delivery across KZN or further afield. If a file arrives late on a Friday, for example, we will say straight away whether it can still be processed for the next run or whether it should roll to the following slot. No guesswork, just a clear answer.
Pricing approach for artwork checks
Artwork checking is priced according to the amount of time needed to review the file and the amount of correction required. Simple checks on already prepared files are usually straightforward. If the work needs redrawing, detailed cleanup or multiple colour adjustments, the cost goes up with the labour involved. We keep the pricing practical so you only pay for the work your file actually needs.
For regular customers, repeat jobs are easier and faster because the artwork history is already known. That can reduce setup time on follow-up orders. For one-off jobs, we quote according to the file condition and the print method. If the artwork is not suitable for printing as supplied, we explain the options before any extra time is spent. It helps keep the budget under control and avoids nasty surprises later on.
When to recheck artwork and keep files ready
Artwork should be rechecked whenever a logo changes, a sponsor is added, a phone number changes or a layout is being used on a different item. A design that worked on a T-shirt may not work on a cap or banner without adjustment. For schools and clubs, we suggest reviewing master files before each new season or event batch. That way the artwork stays current and the print results stay consistent.
As a maintenance interval, it is wise to revisit core artwork every 6 to 12 months, or sooner if the brand changes. Keep a clean master file, saved in an editable format, plus a print-ready version for quick repeat jobs. That saves time when an order comes in and helps our team move straight into production. If a file has been passed around through our contact form or messaging apps, ask for a fresh review before printing, because small changes and compression can creep in.
- Recheck after any logo, name or contact detail change
- Review before new season school or club orders
- Confirm artwork again when switching print surfaces
- Update master files every 6 to 12 months
- Store an editable version and a print-ready version separately
Key facts
| Service area | Umbilo, Durban and courier delivery nationwide |
|---|---|
| Typical file types | PDF, AI, EPS, PSD, TIFF and high resolution PNG |
| Minimum practical resolution | 300 dpi at final size for photo based artwork |
| Recommended line weight | Fine details should stay visible at final print size |
| Colour handling | Spot colour, process colour and separation checks |
| Use cases | T-shirts, caps, banners, signage and repeat order artwork |
