Art Request

A document filled out by the customer to request a virtual representation of a custom product. In the custom apparel printing industry, an art request typically involves asking the printer’s design team to develop new artwork, adjust existing designs, or make artwork print-ready based on specific garment and printing requirements.
Art requests are a critical step in ensuring designs are technically suitable for production and aligned with the customer’s branding and intended use.

Purpose of an Art Request

The primary purpose of an art request is to clearly communicate design requirements between the customer and the printer. It ensures that artwork meets production standards and reduces the risk of errors during printing.

Common reasons for submitting an art request include:

Creating artwork from a logo, sketch, or concept
Converting low-resolution images into print-ready files
Adjusting colours, sizing, or placement
Preparing artwork for a specific printing method
Adding names, numbers, or custom text

In Australia, art requests are common for business uniforms, sportswear, promotional apparel, and event merchandise.

What an Art Request Typically Includes

Design Information

Customers usually provide reference materials such as logos, images, brand guidelines, or written descriptions. The more detail supplied, the more accurate the final artwork will be.

Garment and Print Details

An effective art request outlines:

Garment type and colour
Print locations (front, back, sleeve, etc.)
Approximate print size
Preferred printing method

These details help the artwork be tailored specifically to the job.

Intended Use

Understanding whether the garment is for workwear, retail, sport, or promotion influences how the artwork is prepared.

Benefits of a Clear Art Request

A well-structured art request offers several advantages:

Faster turnaround times
Fewer revisions and approvals
Improved print accuracy
Better alignment with branding guidelines

For Australian businesses managing bulk orders or tight deadlines, clear art requests help keep projects on track.

Art Requests and Printing Methods

Different printing techniques have different artwork requirements. An art request allows designers to optimise artwork for:

Screen printing, where colour separation and simplicity matter
DTF and DTG printing, which require high-resolution files
Embroidery, where stitch limits and detail must be considered
Sublimation, where artwork must align with garment panels

Without an art request, artwork may need reworking later, causing delays.

Practical Insights and Best Practices

Providing accurate information upfront reduces the need for multiple revisions. Customers should clarify whether they require basic setup or full design creation. Digital proofs are typically supplied for approval before production begins.

It is also important to confirm ownership or permission to use supplied logos or artwork, especially for commercial printing.

Why Art Requests Matter

An art request bridges the gap between creative ideas and technical production. It ensures artwork is not only visually appealing but also suitable for printing on the chosen garments. In the Australian custom apparel industry, clear art requests are essential for delivering consistent, professional results with minimal delays.