The fastest way to a perfect lanyard — and the most common source of production delays — comes down to artwork. Submit clean, print-ready files and your order sails through proofing. Submit low-resolution or ambiguous files and you'll face back-and-forth that costs days. Here's exactly how to prepare and submit lanyard artwork.
Accepted File Formats
Vector files are strongly preferred: AI (Adobe Illustrator), EPS, PDF, and CDR (CorelDRAW). Vectors scale to any size without losing sharpness, which is ideal for logos and text. If you only have raster images (PNG, JPG, TIFF), provide them at high resolution — see below. Avoid low-res web images and screenshots, which reproduce poorly.
Resolution for Raster Images
If you must supply a raster file, it should be at least 300 DPI at the actual print size — not 300 DPI at thumbnail size. A logo that looks crisp on screen may be far too low-resolution for print. When in doubt, send the largest, highest-quality version you have, and we'll advise whether it's suitable.
Specify Pantone (PMS) Colors
Screens display color differently than fabric prints. To guarantee your brand colors, provide Pantone (PMS) codes rather than relying on RGB or the appearance on your monitor. Both screen printing and sublimation match Pantone accurately. If you don't know your Pantone codes, tell us your brand and we can help identify them.
Convert Text to Outlines
Fonts are the most common cause of artwork errors. If you use a font we don't have installed, your text can reflow or substitute incorrectly. The fix: convert all text to outlines (curves) before sending vector files. This locks the text as shapes so it prints exactly as designed, regardless of fonts.
Include Layout and Placement Notes
Tell us how the design should sit on the strap: centered, repeated, one side or both, and the strap width you want. A quick annotated sketch or note prevents misunderstandings. Specify the finished size and any elements that must reach the edges (full-bleed), which requires sublimation.
What Happens After You Submit
Once we receive your artwork, we send a free digital proof — usually within 24 hours — showing exactly how your lanyard will look. Review it carefully for spelling, colors, placement, and size. Production only begins after you approve the proof, so this is your chance to catch anything before it's printed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What file format is best for lanyard artwork?
Vector files — AI, EPS, PDF, or CDR — are best because they scale without losing quality. Convert text to outlines before sending.
What resolution do raster images need?
At least 300 DPI at the actual print size. A file that's 300 DPI only at thumbnail size will print blurry when enlarged.
Why should I convert fonts to outlines?
So your text prints exactly as designed even if the manufacturer doesn't have your font installed. Un-outlined fonts can reflow or substitute incorrectly.
Will I see a proof before production?
Yes. We send a free digital proof within 24 hours. Production begins only after you approve it, so you can catch any issues first.
Get a Free Quote in 24 Hours
Have your artwork ready? Send it over and we'll return a free digital proof within 24 hours. No files yet? Our team offers free design assistance.