Vector
Built from paths and shapes. It can generally be scaled without the same pixelation issues as raster artwork.
AIEPSSVGVector PDF
Especially useful for logos, text, icons and large-format branding.Artwork guide
Artwork Guide for Custom Event Branding Products
Prepare artwork that works across your event. One identity may appear on a tent, flag, backdrop, bag, shirt and giveaway—but each product has a different shape and branding area. Use this guide to gather the files and references needed to adapt your artwork across the project.
The current quote form keeps selected files in your browser; it does not send file contents to XZD.
Master event artworkEVENT / IDENTITYLogo · colors · campaign graphics
01TentAdapted layout
02FlagAdapted layout
03BackdropAdapted layout
04BagAdapted layout
05ApparelAdapted layout
One identity · Product-specific artwork
The direct answer
What Artwork Files Should I Send for Custom Products?
Vector files such as AI, EPS, SVG or suitable vector PDF files are generally the most useful for logos and scalable graphics. High-resolution PNG or other raster files may also help, depending on the product and artwork. Include brand colors, sponsor logos and placement references when available.
A file extension alone does not establish whether artwork is ready for a particular product or printing method.
Start here
Before You Send Artwork
Send what you have. The checklist helps explain the brand and how the artwork should be used across products.
What Should I Include in an Artwork Handoff?
Prepare the available source files and enough context to show which graphics belong on which products.
- Primary logo
- Vector logo, if available
- Campaign or event graphics
- Brand color references
- Pantone references, if used
- Sponsor and partner logos
- Product-specific artwork, if available
- Placement references
- Event name and campaign message
- Notes on products sharing the same artwork
Missing a file? Note what is available and what still needs to be decided.
Choose Artwork for My Project01 / File foundations
Vector vs Raster Artwork — What Is the Difference?
Both can be useful. The right source depends on the artwork and where it will appear.
Raster
Built from pixels. Image quality depends on actual pixel dimensions and the intended print size.
PNGJPG / JPEGTIFF
Useful for photography, rendered artwork and some full-color graphics.File format decision table
Swipe across to see all columns.
| Format | Type | Common use | Key consideration |
|---|---|---|---|
| AI | Vector | Logo / layout | Fonts and linked assets may need attention. |
| EPS | Vector | Logo / graphics | Useful for scalable graphics. |
| SVG | Vector | Logo / icons | Useful for scalable digital and vector graphics. |
| Vector, raster or mixed | Artwork exchange | The contents must be checked; the extension alone tells us little. | |
| PNG | Raster | Logo / transparent graphic | Pixel dimensions must suit the intended print size. |
| JPG | Raster | Photography / image | Compression and resolution matter. |
Quick answer
What Is a Vector Logo?
A vector logo is built from mathematical paths rather than a fixed grid of pixels, allowing it to be resized without becoming pixelated in the same way as a raster image.
One master logo may need to work on a small giveaway and a large flag, tent or backdrop.
Quick answer
Can I Use a PNG or JPG Instead of a Vector File?
Sometimes, but suitability depends on image quality and intended print size. A PNG that looks sharp on screen may be too small for a backdrop; a high-resolution image may work for some applications.
Check the file you have against the intended product and print area.
Not sure about my file? Select it locally for your brief02 / Image quality
How Much Resolution Does My Artwork Need?
The useful detail in a raster image depends on where and how it will be printed.
Pixel dimensions
Final print size
Viewing distance
Product & print method
= Usable image quality300 PPI at final size can be a useful reference for some print applications. Large-format graphics may be prepared differently depending on production method, scale and viewing distance. Check the source image's actual pixels; changing only its PPI label does not create detail.
DPI vs PPI — Are They the Same?
PPI generally describes pixel density in a digital raster image. DPI generally refers to output or printing dot density. The terms are often used loosely, but the practical artwork question is whether the source has enough detail at the intended printed size.
RGB vs CMYK — What Should Buyers Know?
RGB is commonly used for screens; CMYK is associated with many print workflows. Do not blindly convert every file. The right color workflow depends on the product, print method, production process and artwork. Share brand color references when appearance matters.
03 / Brand color
How Should I Provide Brand Colors?
A clear color reference helps coordinate a project with several materials and production methods.
You can provide a Pantone reference, CMYK values, RGB or HEX values, a brand guideline, or a reference sample where appropriate. Pantone references can provide a useful standardized target.
Color references help coordinate the project, while final appearance can vary according to material and production method. Fabric, paper, metal, plastic and different surface finishes may show the same reference differently.
One brand color reference
- Tent
- Flag
- Bag
- Shirt
- Giveaway
What Should I Do With Fonts?
Provide the font name or reference. If your license permits sharing the font, include it when needed. Final logo or headline text can often be converted to outlines where appropriate to reduce substitution issues. Keep editable source files when useful.
What About Linked Images?
Some AI and design files point to external images rather than embedding them. Include required linked images with the artwork package, or embed them appropriately. A helpful handoff contains the logo, artwork file, image assets, permitted font information and brand guideline.
04 / Physical product
Design for the Product’s Real Edges and Structure
A layout should account for the confirmed product template and what the audience will actually see.
What Are Bleed and Safe Areas?
Bleed is artwork extending beyond the final visible or cut edge when a specific template requires it. A safe area keeps important text and logos away from edges, seams, cuts or structural areas.
Use product-specific templates or confirmed artwork dimensions. There is no single allowance for every product.
Why Product Construction Matters to Artwork
Tent seams and valances, flag shapes, display edges, table-cover folds, bag handles, apparel panels and inflatable curves can all change what is visible. Position important text with the actual construction in mind; simply resizing one layout is rarely enough.
05 / Connected event artwork
One Event Identity — Multiple Artwork Layouts
Keep the brand consistent while adapting each layout to its physical format and print area.
Master event artworkLogo · message · color · sponsor hierarchy
TentAdapted dimensions & layout
FlagAdapted dimensions & layout
BackdropAdapted dimensions & layout
BagAdapted dimensions & layout
ApparelAdapted dimensions & layout
One Event. One Sourcing Partner. Coordinated Brand Visibility.
06 / Artwork by product
Check the Artwork Needs of Each Product
Each category has different viewing angles, print areas and construction constraints.
01
Advertising tents
Canopy, valance, walls and viewing direction
Explore category 02Flags & banners
Flag shape, reading direction, logo scale and seam areas
Explore category 03Trade show displays
Headline, imagery, viewing distance and panel layout
Explore category 04Table covers
Front-facing logo, side panels and coverage style
Explore category 05Advertising inflatables
Shape, curved surfaces, viewing direction and sponsor placement
Explore category 06Promotional products
Small branding areas, simplification and product-specific method
Explore category 07Custom bags
Front/back, handles, seams and print area
Explore category 08Custom apparel
Front, back, sleeves, garment panels and sponsor hierarchy
Explore categoryHow Do I Decide Where the Logo Should Go?
Ask where people will view the product, how far away they will be, which surface faces them, whether the product is stationary or carried, and whether sponsor logos must appear.
A tent valance may be visible at distance. A bag front becomes a moving brand area. Shirt front, back and sleeve placements serve different roles. Confirm the placement for each product.
How Should Sponsor Logos Be Organized?
Event brandPrimary sponsorSupporting sponsorsProduct-specific information
Provide separate sponsor files and any agreed hierarchy. A small print area may need a simpler lockup than a large backdrop.
Prepare Useful Logo Variations
Different product shapes may suit different logo versions. Include available variations and indicate which should be used where.
- Primary logo
- Horizontal logo
- Vertical or stacked logo
- Single-color logo
- Reversed or white logo
- Sponsor lockup
07 / Start with what you have
What If My Artwork Is Not Finished?
Identify the artwork status in the request for quote. An initial inquiry can begin before every product layout is final.
Final product artwork is available.
Logo, brand colors and references are available.
An event concept exists, but layouts are still being developed.
Quick answer
Can I Request a Quote If I Only Have My Logo?
Yes. An initial project discussion or quotation request can begin with your logo, event information and product requirements. Final production artwork requirements still depend on the selected products and confirmed specifications.
What If I Do Not Have Artwork Yet?
Start with the event type, product requirements, brand references, any available logo, visual examples and required date. Artwork development needs can then be identified as part of the project scope.
Does Selecting Artwork Mean It Was Sent or Approved? No.
The current form keeps selected files in your browser. When a secure handoff is available, artwork may still need checks against product dimensions, print area, resolution, fonts, linked images, color references, seams, structures and production method.
08 / Organize the handoff
Keep Artwork Versions Clear
A clear name and current reference matter more when one event spans several products and print areas.
Simple Artwork File Naming
PROJECT-PRODUCT-AREA-VERSION
- CITYRUN-TENT-BACKWALL-V2.pdf
- CITYRUN-FLAG-FRONT-V3.ai
- CITYRUN-BAG-FRONT-FINAL.pdf
- CITYRUN-SHIRT-BACK-V2.ai
Include the product, artwork area, version and status. Names such as final-final-new-2.pdf make the current reference harder to identify.
Which File Should Everyone Use?
- DraftBeing reviewed
- UpdatedRevised version
- Confirmed referenceCurrent project reference
Use a clear current reference and keep earlier versions distinguishable. This is a file-management convention, not a formal online approval state.
Fictional example
City Run Event Artwork
A structured artwork package makes a multi-product project easier to review.
01_MASTER-BRANDLogo · Brand colors · Sponsor lockup
02_TENTCanopy · Back wall
03_FLAGSFlag artwork
04_BAGSBag front
05_APPARELShirt front · Shirt back
Example project
Trade Show Artwork Package
Master brand artwork can inform the backdrop, flags, table cover, staff apparel and promotional bag while each surface gets its own layout.
Explore trade show brandingExample project
Marathon Artwork Package
Event identity and sponsor lockup may be adapted for start and finish graphics, flags, participant bags, apparel, medals and promotional items.
Explore marathon event brandingNext step
Organize the Artwork You Have.
Include the products, quantities, event date, destination, available files, color references and any open artwork decisions in your project brief.
The RFQ form sends your project details after submission. Selected files remain on your device; our team can request them separately.