How are medal artwork files prepared?

Understanding how medal artwork files are prepared is crucial for ensuring your custom medals meet professional manufacturing standards and achieve the desired visual impact.

Initial Design Requirements

Medal artwork preparation begins with establishing proper file specifications. Vector-based formats like Adobe Illustrator (.ai) or CorelDRAW (.cdr) files are preferred for their scalability and precision. Files should be created at actual medal size with a resolution of at least 300 DPI for any raster elements.

Design Considerations for Manufacturing

Relief and Depth Elements

Artwork must account for the medal's dimensional aspects. Designers create separate layers indicating raised (relief) and recessed (incused) areas. Line weights should be minimum 0.5mm for etched details, while raised elements require at least 1mm spacing between features for proper definition during die-striking.

Color and Finish Specifications

For enameled medals, artwork includes precise Pantone color specifications. Each enamel area must be clearly defined with proper trapping allowances. Finish callouts indicate whether areas will be polished, sandblasted, or antiqued.

File Preparation Process

Technical Setup

Professional medal artwork includes both front and back designs, die-cut lines, and manufacturing notes. Text should be converted to outlines to prevent font substitution issues. A 2mm bleed area accommodates manufacturing tolerances.

Quality Control Elements

Completed artwork packages include high-resolution preview renderings, technical drawings with measurements, and detailed finish specifications. Many manufacturers provide design templates ensuring compatibility with their production equipment.

Final Artwork Approval

Before production begins, manufacturers typically provide digital proofs or 3D renderings for client approval. This stage allows for final adjustments to proportions, text legibility, and overall design balance.

Working with experienced medal manufacturers can streamline the artwork preparation process significantly. Ready to bring your medal design vision to life with professional artwork preparation services?