Help with Formatting Graphics for Embroidery
LycanGalen (6 pencils) | Thu, 2009-07-30 10:58Hello,
I've ended up designing a logo for a group I am a part of (I'm a retail/event photographer by trade, I make no claims to being an expert designer) we've agreed on a final image, and the group is now looking into getting shirts embroidered. *cue ominous music*
What I'm hoping to get from you fine folks is where can I look for information on formatting graphics for embroidery - I've been asked for an .eps file and the Pantone color numbers. I'm not sure which Pantone Color library in illustrator CS4 to reference for the closest range compared to thread and would like to ensure that the .eps file that I have created is in fact formatted correctly for the embroidery company's needs (should I be creating an image with a transparent background, or with the same color as the shirt?).
Of course, additional information in regards to embroidery would also be more than welcome.
Thanks so much ahead of time.
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Are you using a photo as an image for the logo?
I usually send an .eps of the logo (no background) to them. It would be a vector file with all the info in there. I would also send a note specifying the details like colours, size, fonts (send font folder or change font to outlines), etc.
If you're using a photo as the logo or part of it, they won't be able to embroider it unless you re-draw it and simplify the detail. Alternatively, you could have the T-shirts printed, that has more options.
Have you shown the logo to the printer/people who will be doing the embroidery? Ask them exactly what they want. Don't cut corners - give them what they ask for to keep to time limits and costs. Ask lots of questions if you don't understand, they're used to it and would prefer giving you 5minutes now than 2hrs later.
Jo
Thanks for the pointers Jo,
The image had been a logo I had drawn, so no photo to worry about. But as you had said I ended up sending an illustrator .eps (I didn't know there was such a difference between illustrator and photoshop in this particular format, wow) with the font set to outlines, and the color numbers according to the pantone PMS color set.
Believe me, I had voted for printing the shirts, but was out-voted. Though really, there are worse things I could have been out-voted on.
The shirts have been produced, but I haven't yet gotten a chance to see them. hopefully they turned out well.
Thanks again for the input, it's nice to know I more or less got it right.
Great to hear it all turned out alright. I would presume if it hadn't you would have heard by now.
Ps and Illy are very different. They each do a fantastic job, but you need to know when to use each one. I think you did well. But for again, don't forget that the printer or the repro department is an invaluable source of information. If you get them when they're not flat-out, they're only delighted to guide you. It makes their job easier in the long run and not every printer wants the work as a .pdf or illy.eps. You gotta ask for every job/different printer. I always do.
I used to be Repro Mgr for a large printers and know how frustrating it is to get crap artwork when you've got a million different jobs to get out and a load of machines to keep fed with plates. If you keep them happy they'll keep you happy.
Remember, the printer is your friend :)
Jo