Purpose of the Artwork Approval Process
The primary purpose of artwork approval is to confirm that the artwork meets the customer’s expectations and production requirements. It acts as a final checkpoint between design preparation and printing.
Artwork approval helps ensure:
- Correct logo usage and branding
- Accurate placement on the garment
- Proper sizing for each print location
- Clear and correct text and spelling
- Suitability for the selected printing method
In Australia, artwork approval is standard practice for both small custom orders and large-scale uniform or promotional runs.
What Is Included in an Artwork Approval
Digital Proofs
Customers are typically provided with a digital proof showing the artwork positioned on the selected garment. This proof may include front, back, or sleeve views.
Design Specifications
Details such as print dimensions, colour references, and placement measurements are often included to give clarity before production begins.
Method-Specific Adjustments
Artwork approval may also confirm any changes made to optimise the design for screen printing, DTF, embroidery, or other decoration methods.
Benefits of Artwork Approval
Artwork approval offers several key benefits:
- Prevents production errors
- Reduces misunderstandings between customer and printer
- Ensures brand accuracy and consistency
- Provides a clear sign-off point before printing
For Australian businesses ordering bulk garments, this step is critical to maintaining consistency across teams, locations, or events.
Common Responsibilities During Approval
Customers are responsible for reviewing artwork carefully. This includes checking:
- Spelling, numbers, and dates
- Logo versions and orientation
- Colour accuracy (within print limitations)
- Design placement and scale
Printers are responsible for preparing artwork to professional standards and flagging any technical limitations before approval is requested.
Practical Insights and Best Practices
Artwork approval should be reviewed thoroughly and not rushed. Once approval is given, changes may result in additional costs or delays. It is also recommended that approval be provided in writing, such as via email or an online proofing system, to avoid confusion.
For repeat orders, previously approved artwork can often be reused, saving time and ensuring consistency.
Artwork Approval and Printing Methods
Artwork approval is especially important for:
- Screen printing, where setup changes can be costly
- Embroidery, where digitising depends on final artwork
- Sublimation, where alignment across panels is critical
- DTF and DTG printing, where file accuracy affects output quality
Each method relies on approved artwork to achieve consistent results.
Why Artwork Approval Is Essential
Artwork approval is one of the most important steps in custom garment printing. It protects both the customer and the printer by ensuring clarity, accuracy, and agreement before production begins. For Australian businesses and organisations, a thorough artwork approval process leads to professional results, fewer issues, and confidence in the final garments delivered.
