How to Prepare Artwork for Custom Cup Printing (Free Checklist)

The single biggest cause of proofing delays is artwork that isn't print-ready. Here's the checklist we send new customers before their first order.

File format

Vector files (.AI, .EPS, .PDF with vector paths, or high-res .SVG) are strongly preferred. Screen printing requires clean color separations, which vector art provides natively — a low-resolution logo pulled from a website or social media profile usually isn't usable as-is.

Color mode

Provide Pantone (PMS) color codes wherever possible rather than just RGB or hex values. Screen printing uses spot-color inks matched to Pantone references — without a PMS code, your printer has to estimate the closest match, which can shift your brand colors slightly from what you expect.

Simplify for small scale

A logo that looks great at business-card size can turn muddy at cup scale if it has fine detail, thin lines, or gradients (gradients aren't reproducible in standard spot-color screen printing). Bold, simplified shapes hold up best on a curved 2-4 inch print area.

Checklist before you submit

• Vector file format (.AI, .EPS, or vector PDF)
• Pantone color codes for each color in your design
• No gradients or photographic elements (convert to solid spot colors)
• Confirm your print area — wrap-around vs. single panel

Not sure if your file is ready? Send it to us and we'll review it for free before you place an order.