Can I place a request without a design mockup or guide?
Yes, you can place a request without a mockup or design guide. A single logo file, a reference image or a rough idea is enough.
Even when the direction is not set yet, your consultant works with you from concept to mockup.
Can I check a mockup or a physical sample before production?
Yes, a mockup check before printing is standard for every item, and a physical sample can be made depending on the item. For brand and IP merch where color matters, O-SEAN recommends matching color on a printed physical sample rather than on a monitor.
Sample cost and timing are given per item at the quote stage, and apparel is made from 1 piece, so you can receive one piece first before the main order.
What format should design files be in?
Designs with text and logos come out sharpest when sent as vector files such as PDF or AI. Image files such as JPG and PNG can print blurry if the resolution is low for the print size, and items cut to shape, such as acrylic keyrings and die-cut stickers, need a PNG with a transparent background.
If you are not sure which file works, send the files you have as they are, and your consultant will check them.
Can I send RGB files, or do I need to convert to CMYK?
Print files should be prepared in CMYK. Monitors show color in RGB, so printing an RGB file as is can make colors darker or duller.
For a logo where color matters, share the brand color values and check the actual color on a mockup or sample. More detail on specifying colors is in the print methods guide.
Should I remove trim lines and guide lines from the template before sending?
Yes, working guide lines such as trim lines and safe-area lines must be removed before saving. Guide lines that are not removed may be printed.
Keep text and artwork that must not be cut inside the safe area, and extend the background past the trim line so no white margin appears at the edge.
Will a phone photo or a small image print with good quality?
An image below 300 dpi at the actual print size prints blurry, and printing 10 cm wide needs an original of about 1,200 pixels wide or more. Enlarging a small image makes pixels visible, so send phone photos at their original resolution.
The file preparation standards are in the print methods guide.
Do thin lines and small text print well?
Very thin lines and small text can break up or blur. Thin lines and small text are especially at risk on uneven surfaces such as fabric or rubber, and with embroidery or foil finishing.
Switch thin fonts to bold fonts, and make line weights and text sizes generous.
Do printed colors come out darker than on screen?
Yes, most printed items come out slightly darker and less saturated than on screen. A monitor creates color with light, while printing lays ink on paper, fabric or other materials, so the difference can grow depending on the fabric or base color.
Brighten dark photos a little before sending, and if color matters, check the color with a mockup and sample first.
Will you tell me before production if there is a problem with my file?
O-SEAN checks files at the mockup stage, and production starts after you confirm the final mockup. O-SEAN cannot take responsibility for errors in the design, text, quantity or specs you gave final approval to, or for problems caused by materials you supplied, unless O-SEAN acted with intent or negligence.
Before approving, zoom in and check typos, logo colors and print positions carefully.