Files and Formats
When uploading your custom design for our Premium Dinner Napkins, the file type and quality are essential to ensuring a sharp, professional finish. Below is a breakdown of preferred and accepted file types, along with tips for achieving the best results.
Preferred File Types (Recommended for Best Quality)
- AI (Adobe Illustrator)
- Why It’s Ideal: AI files are vector-based, meaning they can be scaled to any size without losing clarity. This is particularly useful for intricate logos or detailed designs.
- Who Should Use It: Professional designers and those with access to Adobe Illustrator.
- Pro Tip: Ensure your design uses outlined text and embedded images to avoid compatibility issues.
- EPS (Encapsulated PostScript)
- Why It’s Ideal: Similar to AI, EPS files are vector formats, which makes them highly reliable for maintaining design integrity at various sizes.
- Who Should Use It: Designers or professionals working with logo files and sharp graphics.
- Pro Tip: Save your EPS files in CMYK format for accurate color reproduction.
- PSD (Adobe Photoshop)
- Why It’s Ideal: PSD files support complex designs with multiple layers, offering high-resolution results.
- Who Should Use It: Designers working with photo-based designs or gradients.
- Pro Tip: Ensure your file has at least 300 DPI (dots per inch) for sharp printing results.
- PDF (Portable Document Format)
- Why It’s Ideal: Universally accepted and highly versatile, PDF files lock in your design elements while preserving quality.
- Who Should Use It: Everyone! Especially if you’re consolidating multiple elements into one file.
- Pro Tip: Use high-resolution export settings for text and image clarity.
Accepted File Types (Suitable but May Require Adjustments)
- JPEG/JPG
- Best For: Simple photo designs.
- Tips: Ensure a high resolution (300 DPI or higher) and avoid compressing the file to prevent quality loss.
- PNG
- Best For: Transparent designs or logos.
- Tips: Save your file in the largest size available to minimize pixelation.
- GIF
- Best For: Basic graphics with limited color use (not recommended for complex designs).
- Tips: GIFs are typically low resolution, so they may need optimization for better printing results.
- BMP/TIFF
- Best For: High-quality image preservation.
- Tips: These formats work well for photography but can result in large file sizes, which may need to be compressed for upload.
Important Guidelines for All File Types
- Color Settings: Use CMYK color mode for print to ensure accurate reproduction of your design’s colors.
- Resolution: Always aim for 300 DPI or higher for sharp and detailed printing.
- File Size: Keep the file size under 50MB for smoother upload; larger files can be zipped if necessary.
- Borders and Bleeds: Avoid placing essential elements too close to the edge, as this can be cropped during the printing process. Use at least a 0.25" margin.
- Text Fonts: Outline all text or include the font file to prevent font mismatches.
Step-by-Step
Step 1: Select Your Napkin Type
Step 2: Select Napkin Style
Choose the napkin style that best suits your event’s aesthetic:
- Standard (Plain): A smooth, polished surface ideal for elegant, minimalist designs.
- Patterned: Add depth and sophistication with embossed patterns like floral or geometric motifs, ideal for themed events.
- Coined Edges: Features embossed edges for a refined, framed look—perfect for formal dinners or corporate events.
Step 3: Select Napkin Color
Pick from a palette of 18 unique colors to match your event's theme. Ensure that the chosen imprint color contrasts well with your napkin color for optimal readability.
Tip for Contrast: Use light imprint colors (e.g., white, gold) on dark napkins and dark imprint colors (e.g., black, navy) on light napkins.
Step 4: Choose Napkin Thickness
- 2-Ply: Perfect for casual settings, offering a lightweight feel.
- 3-Ply: Provides a more luxurious, sturdy option suitable for weddings, corporate dinners, or other formal gatherings.
Pro Tip: Choose 3-ply napkins for events requiring a touch of sophistication and premium quality.
Step 5: Select Printing Orientation
Decide between Square or Diagonal placement.
- Square: Clean and professional appearance for logos or monograms.
- Diagonal: Adds a playful, dynamic edge to designs.
Pro Tip: Diagonal printing works exceptionally well for bold graphics or text-heavy designs.
Step 6: Customize Your Napkin
Options include:
- Upload My Artwork:
- Ensure your design meets the file requirements outlined above for the best results.
- Enter Text:
- Select fonts, sizes, and imprint colors directly on our platform.
- Design From Scratch:
- Use our interactive design tool to create your masterpiece, perfect for those who want total creative freedom.
Step 7: Choose Your Guaranteed Delivery Date
Pick a delivery date that aligns with your timeline. Standard production is 3–5 business days, with expedited options available for last-minute orders.