Stencils Support
Artwork sizes & templates
Below is a list of all the artwork sizes we offer for stencils. When designing your artwork please ensure it fits into the below artwork size.
Artwork features
Your artwork needs to meet the following specifications
Artwork needs to be supplied in vector format
RGB Outlines need to be at 0.25pt
Preferred border around designs
0.05″ minimum separation between lines
Accepted file formats
Please convert your fonts to outlines and embed any linked images.
Submitting artwork
Please upload all of your artwork and inserts (where applicable) via your secure online account, under the ‘Manage Artwork’ section. Please ensure the artwork meets all of the requirements detailed above. If the artwork falls under these specifications this may delay the process. Your artwork always remains your property and we are dedicated to ensuring your designs remain secure.
If your artwork exceeds the upload size limit then send us a data transfer link (e.g WeTransfer, Dropbox, Google Drive). Simply copy your file link into the submit download link field on the upload artwork section.
Approval process
Once you have submitted your artwork please allow up to 48 hours while your artwork is being processed before receiving your design for approval. Once you artwork has been made by our dedicated artwork team you will receive a proof to approve.
Please note we cannot proceed with your order until you have sent us written confirmation on email that the artwork is approved. Delays in approving artwork may result in delays to production.
Changes to artwork
If at any point you wish to make changes to your designs these must be sent in writing via email to our Artwork Team. Please make it clear what changes are to be made to prevent delay or changes being processed incorrectly. Changes to designs should be submitted by sending the old incorrect file, circling what has changed and then sending new corrected files clearly marked.
The artwork department will then amend your files and send you a new negative to approve of the amended design. One approved the old file on our system will be deleted.
Please note there will be a charge for any changes made to artwork that has already been approved. This fee will also be charged for any work our artwork team has to complete to bring your artwork up to specification (i.e. thickening lines, moving images, etc).
Insert sizes & templates
Below is a list of the insert sizes to accomodate your stencils. Please ensure to add 1/8″ bleed on each side of the insert. Refer to the Insert examples for more details if needed.
Insert features
Your insert files need to meet the following specifications
Color mode
We accept the below color modes for inserts.
Resolution
Minimum 300dpi
Bleed
1/8″ on all sides
Black & White
CMYK
RGB
Accepted file formats
Please ensure when sending artwork in PSD, Ai or CDR file format that the files are flattened and there are no layers. If you are using a paid font please ensure to embed this into the document. Alternatively you can supply the font file or export the file to a PDF.
Submitting inserts
Please send all inserts to [email protected]
Ensure the insert artwork is sent as an attachment and not embedded into the body of the email as this causes the resolution to be lost.
If your insert artwork exceeds the mail size limit then send us a data transfer link. Simply upload your insert artwork to dropbox, wetranfer or another file sharing service and send the link to [email protected]
When sending in your inserts please ensure it is clear which insert is for which design. If you can include a guide this will help ensure the correct inserts are printed with the correct designs.
Helping you to understand us
Below is a guide to our terminology we use when working with your designs to help you understand each stage of the artwork process.
Insert
This is the printed backing card which can be packed in with your stamps. Inserts are printed on 216gsm matt paper.
Bleed
This is an additional 1/8″ area around all sides of the insert file. This should just be colour or the pattern extended to allow for slight variation when cutting so that the cut is up to the edge of the sheet. Do not include any text in this area.
Clear Bags
All our stamps are packed into crystal clear self-seal bags, which are ideal for protecting and displaying your stamp sets. They even come with a hanging slot at the top for hanging display in stores.
Definition of terms
Below is a guide to our terminology we use when processing your orders, to help you understand each stage of the despatch process.
Lead Time
The lead time on your order with Photocentric starts when we have all information required to complete your order (all artwork approvals, all quantities, all shipping info, etc.) Delay in receipt of any of this info can result in production delays. We will send most artwork within 48 hours back for approval, after receipt. Our normal turnaround time is between 10-12 business days + transit time. Please also note that complex orders may increase turnaround. Delay in your approval of artwork could also result in production delays.
Business days do not include bank holidays.
Requested Dates: Photocentric will do everything we can to meet any requested dates, but we cannot guarantee it.
Changes to your order
Changes to your order after submission constitutes as a new replacement order which could result in restarting the lead time cycle.
If we can adjust without affecting the original estimated ready date, we will. It is very important to not place your order until you are certain of the designs and quantities that you want. Once the process begins, everyone in our facility starts to work on different aspects of the job. Changes are costly and time consuming.
Shipping
Standard freight charges for most orders include United Parcel Service ground service to the continental United States. Buyers who live outside the continental U.S. must request either UPS or DHL as their carrier. Buyers who wish to supply their own shipping account number may do so, but must call or email the details. Buyers who request expedited shipping via UPS may choose to do so at actual freight rates specific for those services. Buyers who request shipment via Parcel Post do so at their own risk, due to past experiences we prefer not to use USPS. Parcel Post shipments are less reliable, sometimes unable to be tracked and carry no guarantee by USPS of deliverability.
Shipping Claims
Claims for shipping adjustments, breakage or delays in transit must be filed with the carrier within 15 days. For UPS shipments, buyers must contact their local UPS office at place of delivery for damage inspection prior to notifying Photocentric Inc. Photocentric Inc. will then process claims after the on-site inspection has been completed.
Over-Runs and Under-Runs
In the manufacturing process we try to avoid waste as much as possible, therefore it is common to have overruns and underruns to maximize efficiencies. An overrun amounts to the additional products that are produced compared to the quantity ordered. Conversely, an underrun is the number of products printed short of what was ordered. This process is also referred to as “shortages” or “overages.” Please allow for a +/-3% variance on orders.
Claims & Remakes
We go to great lengths to ensure that every order leaving our facility is correct. Our business philosophy is that all our customers are valued customers, regardless of size. Any order manufactured differently than the approved artwork will be remade or credited to your account for the defective product.
Submit claims to [email protected], all claims must be submitted within 90 days from delivery date. If Photocentric Inc. is responsible for any errors in your order, we will gladly accept responsibility for the issues and will remake or credit your account.
Payment Terms
Buyer must pay by credit card or PayPal upon order completion, unless prior credit arrangements have been made. All invoices are emailed to the buyer at the time the order is ready. Unless 30 day terms are set, all accounts are set up on ‘due before shipped’ terms. Delays in shipping may occur if payment is not received in a timely manner. Credit application available upon request.
Confidentiality
All designs submitted to Photocentric are treated as confidential and will never be transmitted to anyone not involved in the manufacturing process.
Trademark Use
All copy or other materials which are submitted to Photocentric by the buyer and used in producing items ordered, will be accepted by Photocentric as being submitted in full compliance with applicable laws regarding trademark, service mark, copyright, right of privacy, patent or similar protection. The buyer hereby agrees to hold Photocentric and its parent organizations harmless from any liability that may result from Photocentric’s use of artwork submitted by the buyer.