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Artwork preparation guide

How to Prepare Artwork for Custom Enamel Pins

A clear vector file helps, but production-ready artwork also needs realistic linework, color boundaries, size and attachment planning.

Planning summary

Good enamel pin artwork defines finished size, metal boundaries, color areas, plating, front and back details, posts and packing. Vector files are preferred, but a clear logo or sketch can begin the review. The final production proof must resolve details that are too small or too close together at actual size.

Custom enamel pin artwork and order preparation checklist
Custom enamel pin artwork and order preparation checklist
Buyer takeaway: Do not judge the proof only while zoomed in. The finished pin must remain readable and manufacturable at its real dimensions.

Preferred file formats

AI, EPS, SVG and editable PDF are normally easier to scale and edit than screenshots. A high-resolution PNG can support review when vector artwork is unavailable, but the manufacturer may need to redraw it. Confirm whether artwork preparation or redrawing is included.

Set the final size before refining detail

Artwork that looks clear on a large monitor may fail at 25–35 mm. State the finished width and height, then review the proof at 100% scale. For irregular shapes, include both maximum dimensions.

Metal line width and color separation

Traditional enamel areas usually need metal boundaries. Extremely thin lines can fill, break or polish away. Small isolated color areas may be impractical. Ask the factory to mark any lines or gaps below its current production tolerance.

Design rule: Simplify first, then add detail only where it remains visible at actual size.

Text and small details

Convert fonts to outlines and check spelling before approval. Very small text may need to be enlarged, replaced with raised metal, screen printed or removed. Avoid relying on hairline strokes or subtle shading that cannot be represented by the selected process.

Plating, enamel and print notes

Identify the metal finish and each enamel color clearly. Pantone references help control color discussion, but material and lighting still affect appearance. If printing or epoxy is used, define which details are printed and which are formed in metal.

Posts, holes and packaging

Show the proposed post position, especially for wide or asymmetrical pins. Decide whether one or two posts are required. Backing cards need their own artwork, finished size, cut or slit positions, barcode area and packaging instructions.

Proof approval checklist

  1. Correct size and orientation
  2. Correct spelling, dates and logo proportions
  3. Plating and every color identified
  4. Soft or hard enamel process confirmed
  5. Posts, clutches and card positions shown
  6. Front, back and edge details reviewed
  7. Physical sample route confirmed where required

Updated buyer answers · 2026-08-29

Questions buyers ask before they approve this specification

These answers expand the guide around the purchase decisions most likely to change price, production feasibility, quality control or the required in-hand date.

Do I need a vector file to order custom enamel pins?

Vector artwork is preferred because shapes, lines and colors remain editable, but it is not always required for the first enquiry. Send the clearest logo, PNG, PDF or sketch available. The factory should explain any artwork-redrawing scope and provide a production proof for approval.

Can a factory make an enamel pin from only a logo or rough sketch?

Yes, when the concept is clear enough to interpret. Explain the desired size, colors, plating, use and backing. If the logo contains gradients, photographs or very fine detail, the supplier may recommend simplifying enamel areas or using printing for selected elements.

How do I prevent small text and details from disappearing?

Review the design at actual production size, not only enlarged on screen. Keep important text away from edges and crowded color cells, and allow clear metal separation where enamel requires it. Ask the factory to mark any element that falls below its practical production tolerance before approval.

Commercial next stepReview the matching product or solution page. Related planning guideContinue with the next specification decision.

Common buyer questions

Common questions

Can I send a JPG or PNG?

Yes for review, but a vector file is preferred. Redrawing may be required before a production proof can be prepared.

Should fonts be converted to outlines?

Yes. This prevents missing-font substitutions and keeps the approved letter shapes.

Can gradients be made in enamel?

Traditional enamel uses solid color areas. Gradients may require printing or another process and should be discussed separately.

How do I know if details are too small?

Review the proof at actual size and ask the manufacturer to identify line, gap and text limitations for the selected process.

Guide publisher

Jocelyn He

B2B project support for custom medal, pin and metal-gift specifications.

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Send one written specification covering quantity, artwork, size, finish, ribbon or attachment, packing, destination and required in-hand date. We will review feasibility before quoting.

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