What to send before we start printing
The best starting point is a clean logo or artwork file, plus a short note telling us what you want printed, how many items, and the garment or product type. If you are unsure whether your file is ready, send it anyway through the enquiry form and we will check it first. We work with small one-off jobs and bigger runs, so there is no need to wait until everything is perfect.
For most jobs, clear files save time and avoid guesswork. A sharp file also helps with colour matching and keeps text readable on smaller prints like caps and left-chest logos.
- Send vector files if you have them, such as artwork with clean lines and editable shapes
- If you only have a photo or screenshot, send the best version available
- Tell us the final print size in millimetres or centimetres if you know it
- Include any special notes on colours, placement or version changes
File formats that work best
Vector artwork is usually the easiest to work with because it stays sharp at any size. If you only have a raster image, we can advise whether it can be used as is or needs redrawing. Low resolution files can print blurry, especially on larger items like banners or signage, so it is worth checking before production starts.
Good files usually come in PDF, AI, EPS or SVG format. For photos or image based artwork, a high resolution PNG or JPG may be suitable if the image is large enough. Small logos lifted from social media often need cleanup, and sometimes a complete redraw is the better option.
- Vector files are best for logos, text and simple shapes
- High resolution images are better than tiny web images
- Avoid sending screenshots where possible
- Black and white artwork should still be clear and crisp, not fuzzy
Sizing your print correctly
Size matters because a logo that looks fine on a phone screen can be far too small on a shirt or too big for a cap. We can help you choose the right print area for the product, whether it is a school T-shirt, club hoodie, banner or signage panel. If you are not sure, give us the product measurements and we will work from there.
For garment printing, the placement affects the look and wear of the item. A chest print, back print and sleeve print all need different measurements, and cap prints need extra care because of the curved surface. If you are matching a previous order, send a photo and any size notes you have.
- Front chest logos are usually smaller than back prints
- Caps need compact artwork with simple detail
- Banners and signs should be sized to suit viewing distance
- If text is too small, it may not print cleanly
Colour separation and print preparation
Screen printing often needs colour separation so each ink layer is set up correctly. That is especially useful for logos with more than one colour or artwork with solid blocks and text. If your file was created in a program that does not separate colour properly, we can assist with the prep before screens are made. This step helps keep the final result neat, and prevents unwanted colour overlap.
For digital printing jobs, colour handling is different but the same rule applies: clean artwork gives a cleaner finish. If your brand colour is important, send a reference file or an existing item and we will do our best to match it. Coastal humidity in Durban can affect some materials too, so we also advise on the most suitable print method for the job.
- Use solid colours where possible for simpler screen setups
- Keep text outlined or converted to shapes if you can
- Check that your artwork does not rely on missing fonts
- Send a reference image if you need a close colour match
What we can fix for you
If your artwork is not ready, do not worry. We can help with logo redraws, artwork checking, film output and the screen making process in house. That means we can take a rough file and guide it through the steps needed for print. In many cases this is quicker than asking your team to start over with a fresh layout.
Our production team checks whether the design will print cleanly, whether the lines are strong enough, and whether the final size suits the product. We also handle screen reclaiming, screen stretching, emulsion coating, exposure, washout and touch-up, so the print setup is managed properly from the start. It saves time when rush orders come in before school events or club fixtures.
- Artwork checking for layout and printability
- Vector redrawing for logos that need cleanup
- Film output for screen making
- Test printing before full production where needed
How to send artwork through the enquiry form
The easiest way to begin is to use the enquiry form on our contact page and attach whatever artwork you have. Add a short note about the item, quantity, size and when you need it. If you are ordering for a school, business or sports club, mention the group name so we can keep the job details clear from the start.
Once we have seen the file, we can tell you what is usable, what needs fixing, and what the next step should be. Our Umbilo team handles dispatch and courier delivery nationwide, with deliveries into Durban Central, Berea, Pinetown, Westville, Amanzimtoti, Ballito and Pietermaritzburg as well as wider KZN. That makes it easier to keep the process moving even if your items are needed at short notice.
- Use the enquiry form to send files and job notes
- Include quantity, size and preferred turnaround time
- Tell us if the order is for schoolwear, club gear or business branding
- Ask for help if you only have a rough file or old logo
