0 – Color Coding & Preferred File Formats

Submit designs in CMYK for accurate color reproduction.

Avoid JPEGs. Use uncompressed PDFs with all elements ungrouped and on a single layer, without safety or cut lines. Layered PDFs often generate clipping masks and nested groups when opened in Illustrator, which can distort gradients and transparencies.

Clean, flat files ensure compatibility and maintain graphic integrity.

For all laser engraving work, files must be in RGB Black, with every element vectorized / outlined.

1 – Edge Alignment Sensitivity

Keep thin or high-contrast lines at least 5 mm from the metal edge. Small handling variations can cause visible misalignment. Use thicker strokes, reduced contrast, or a small buffer zone near borders.

2 – Dark Backgrounds and Print Texture

Avoid solid dark backgrounds when possible. UV print on water-based coated metal yields sharper, smoother results with light or gradient tones. Dark fills may introduce slight texture variation due to ink density.

3 – Metallic Colors

UV printing does not support metallic inks. To simulate gold, silver or chrome, use graphic textures (gradients, highlights) to suggest depth and reflection.

4 – Fluorescent Colors

True fluorescent tones cannot be printed. Use bright CMYK equivalents or subtle gradient highlights for a similar effect with stable, accurate color.

5 – Laser Engraving Color Variability

Laser engraving is a surface reaction (burning/oxidation), not printing; color tones vary by material and batch. Always submit vector files in RGB Black, with all elements converted to curves for accurate engraving.

6 – UV Print on Wood – Limitations

We use FSC-certified beech wood with a polished surface. Due to texture and absorbency, fine photographic detail or very small shapes may lose precision. Prefer bold, clean graphics and legible typography.

7 – Stone Awards – Limitations

Color on stone awards is limited to one or two tones, typically applied over large engraved areas with minimal detail, and always after laser engraving via a manual paint process.

Also note that this process is not UV mechanical nor digital printing but an artisanal paint job that can lead to slightly irregular surface or color application. Files must be vector-based; bitmap formats such as PNG are not suitable.

8 – Border Limits and Edge Damage

Respect the template’s border limits to prevent ink chipping during packaging and handling. Full-bleed is acceptable but increases edge risk, especially with dark or saturated tones. Use light colors, soft fades, or gentle gradients near edges.

9 – Transparency and Overprint Handling

Avoid transparency or blending modes such as Multiply or Overlay, as UV inks behave differently across materials. Flatten transparencies and verify color consistency before exporting the final file.

10 – Font and Text Guidelines

Convert all fonts to outlines to prevent substitution or spacing errors. Avoid sizes below 6 pt, especially on uneven surfaces. For engraving or embossing, use Bold or Semi-Bold weights to maintain readability after processing.