Plaque Artwork Guidelines
What are the artwork requirements for submitting plaque designs?
To submit artwork for a plaque order, provide high-resolution vector files (PDF, AI, or EPS) with all fonts converted to outlines, photos supplied as separate unedited PSD, TIF, JPG, or PNG files, and plaque specifications included in the artwork file. Minimum font sizes and stroke widths vary by plaque type — see the sections below for exact requirements.
Use the links below to navigate to the artwork requirements for each plaque type.
Note: Quality vector art is preferred. Art fees may apply if additional design work is required.
General Artwork Submission Requirements:
- Convert all fonts to outlines or curves.
- Provide all photo files separately, without any edits or cropping, at a minimum resolution of 300 DPI at the intended print size. Photos should be saved as PSD, TIF, JPG, or PNG. Any supplied image should look crisp and clear, and be free of pixelation when enlarged to the desired size. We will make the required photo edits.
- If you are adding braille, let us know what text needs to be translated into braille. Note that braille specifications (dot size, spacing, and grade) will be handled by our team.
- Include plaque specifications (dimensions, material, finish, and mounting details) in the artwork file when submitting your quote. Save vector graphics as PDF, AI, or EPS. Artwork from CorelDraw, FlexiSign, or Affinity Designer can be exported as vector PDF files. Note that architectural drawings (e.g., CAD files) may need reworking, as they are generally not compatible with design art programs.
- Files up to 100MB can be uploaded in Partner Portal.
- Files over 100MB can be uploaded using our FTP Site.
Precision Tooled Plaques
- The following minimum sizes apply to raised letters on Precision Tooled Plaques: Most serif fonts must be at least 0.25" (H).
- Most sans serif fonts need to be at least .22"H.
- Recessed letter sizes are dependent on the stroke width of the letter. Bold, sans serif fonts are best suited for this task. All parts of the letter, including serifs if applicable, should be at least .022-inch stroke width.
- Kerning should allow for .022-inch of space between letters.
- Recessed areas in logos, seals, or other line art should be at least .022-inch width.
Warning: Condensing, thickening, or distorting the font may alter the required size.
Cast Plaques
- Raised letters:
- Serif fonts such as Times New Roman, Garamond, or Goudy can be produced at .25-inch.
- Sans serif fonts such as Helvetica, Arial, or Futura can be produced at .2-inch.
- Recessed letters and detail inside logos, seals, or other line art requires a minimum stroke width of .0625-inch.
- Kerning should allow for .022-inch of space between letters.
Warning: Condensing, thickening, or distorting the font may alter the required size.
Etched Plaques
- Kerning should allow for a minimum stroke width of .01-inch for space between letters or logo elements.
- Recessed letters, in most cases, can be produced as small as
- .125-inch for sans serif fonts
- Serif fonts require a minimum height of .18-inch.
- Raised copy requirements vary depending on the font. The minimum stroke width is .01-inch for all parts of the letter including serifs.
More Resources
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