Printing Process Help
Understanding UV LED Direct Printing
UV LED direct printing allows us to print directly onto the surface of many products. This guide explains text, artwork, file upload, and proof requirements for UV printable items.
Important
Text and artwork should be submitted exactly as you want them printed. Please check spelling, capitalization, layout notes, and image quality before submitting.
Our UV LED direct print capabilities
We offer many products that can be direct printed. We use high-end Mimaki UV direct printers to print directly on the product surface.
UV printers use ultraviolet LED light to cure the ink immediately as it is printed. We also use preparation techniques, such as primers when needed, to help the ink adhere properly.
The process is similar in concept to the UV light used in nail salons to quickly cure nail polish.
UV printing text
Enter text exactly as you want it printed. If you enter ALL CAPS, the finished product will be printed in ALL CAPS.
We will center your text unless you specify otherwise. If you use a small amount of text, we will usually enlarge it and fit it appropriately into the available space.
Our printers work with most fonts. Many items use Arial Bold by default if no font is requested. You may request a specific font or describe a font style in the special instructions. If we do not have the font, we may ask you to upload the font file.
UV printing images
Many UV printable products allow images, artwork, or logos. Please mention any positioning requests or special instructions when placing your order.
Trademarked or copyrighted images cannot be used without permission from the owner.
UV print image requirements
Images should be high resolution. Images from websites or social media are often reduced in quality and may become grainy when enlarged.
Accepted image file types include jpg, jpeg, pdf, png, bmp, ai, eps, psd, tiff, ttf, and cdr.
We cannot accept images submitted or embedded inside a Word document.
Uploading files
Accepted upload types include text files such as .doc, .docx, .pdf, and .txt; image files such as .jpg, .jpeg, .png, .bmp, .ai, .eps, .psd, .tiff, and .cdr; and font files such as .ttf.
You may upload multiple files, but please keep all text information in one file when possible. If you have multiple products, group them clearly in the file.
The upload link will not appear until the order is completed and paid. After payment, the upload link will appear on the receipt / thank-you page.
Proofs
Many UV printable products allow you to request a proof. If this is your first order for the item, we recommend requesting one.
A proof lets you review layout, font, image placement, and positioning before production. Proofs can delay production because we must wait for your approval or change request.
For repeat orders using the same design, a proof is usually not needed. Let us know you want the same design as a previous order.
UV LED direct printer in action
Inks are cured with UV light as they are printed onto the product surface.
