PPB December 2017

F rom the first day I started work as a designer in the promotional products industry, I’ve seen the confusion and questions that arise regarding obtaining and using the proper artwork. “What kind of art files should I use?” “How do I get the right file types frommy client?” “Do I need a graphic designer?” “How much should I pay for custom graphics?” “What is four- color process?” These questions are usually followed by furrowed brows, grunts and grumbles, and occasional weeping. The struggle to get the correct graphics for your clients’ orders is certainly real. This article, and its second part in next month’s issue, will answer distributors’ most common questions about artwork and ease some of the typical concerns. Industry artwork usually falls into two categories: existing artwork and custom-created artwork. The first refers to a logo or brand that has been produced and previously used by a client. It’s easy to obtain simply by asking your client for the type of file your supplier requires. However, since your client might not be familiar with specific file types, you first need to understand what your supplier is asking for. The other category is custom- created artwork. It usually has a special purpose such as decoration for a custom product. Nine times out of 10, obtaining custom artwork requires working with an artist or graphic designer because of the specifications needed for the product. The best product decoration is A Quick Guide To Industry Graphics Know Your Art Files And Color Options by Tee Hamilton 70 | DECEMBER 2017 | THINK