Send vector artwork with fonts outlined, your print colors, the placement measured from the seams, and the printed area size in centimetres. That is the package that lets a factory quote and sample without a round of questions — and it is what prevents the 'the logo is too small / too high / the wrong red' conversation after sampling.
The five things a printing quote actually needs
- Vector artwork — AI, EPS, PDF or SVG, with fonts outlined so nothing re-flows on another machine.
- Print colors — Pantone references if you have them, otherwise say 'match the file as closely as the method allows'.
- Placement — front, back or both, with the distance from the top seam and from the sides.
- Print size — the width and height of the printed area in centimetres, not 'about a third of the bag'.
- The bag itself — dimensions, canvas weight and handle length, because the print area is limited by the body and the seams.
What different methods can hold
Screen printing is the workhorse for solid shapes and text: crisp edges, strong opacity, and cost driven by the number of colors. Fine gradients and photographic detail are where it struggles. Digital printing handles detail and multi-color artwork far better, and is the more sensible route for a photographic or heavily shaded design. The right question to ask a supplier is not 'which method do you use' but 'what will my file lose at this size on this fabric' — a factory that answers that specifically is the one to work with.
Common artwork problems, and the fix
- Only a JPG or PNG. Send the largest version you have; if it cannot hold your print size, it needs redrawing as vector before sampling.
- Hairline strokes. Very thin lines close up or break on woven fabric — thicken them or drop them.
- Small reversed text. White text in a dark block fills in first. Increase the size or the weight.
- Unstated Pantones. 'Our brand blue' is not a colour reference. Name the Pantone or accept the closest match.
- Placement measured from the top edge instead of the seam. Seams are where the print head has to stop; measure from them.
Approve the printed sample, not a digital mockup
A mockup shows layout; only the printed sample shows what the ink does on your fabric. Check the print position against your measurements, look at the edges of small elements, and rub the print firmly to see how it holds. Keep the approved sample — it is the reference for the bulk and for any reorder.
Artwork requirements and the canvas bases we print on are on the custom canvas tote bag page, and canvas weight is covered in the canvas weight guide.
Lovy prints in its own workshop. Minimum is 100 pcs / style and per print design; bulk runs 15–30 days after you approve the printed sample.
FAQ
How many colors can you print?+
It depends on the artwork, the method and the print size, so it is confirmed against your file rather than promised in advance. Send the vector file and you will get a specific answer.
Can you print on both sides?+
Yes. A second placement is quoted as a separate line item — it does not raise the minimum.
Do you charge a setup or screen fee?+
Setup costs depend on the method and the number of colors and are shown in the quotation rather than hidden in the unit price.