Artwork Guidelines for Signs in NYC
Clear, print-ready artwork is essential for professional, eye-catching signage. Whether you’re a designer in Manhattan or a small business owner in Queens, following proper artwork guidelines ensures your sign looks exactly how you envisioned it—sharp, bold, and brand-ready.
Why Artwork Guidelines Matter
Submitting artwork that meets our guidelines helps prevent delays, avoids costly reprints, and guarantees the final sign reflects your brand’s quality. Here’s why following these standards is critical:
- Print Clarity: Ensure your sign is sharp, legible, and high-resolution.
- Color Accuracy: Get the true brand colors you expect—no surprises.
- Faster Turnaround: Clean files reduce revision time and speed up production.
- Professional Results: Show off your brand in the best light with polished, properly scaled graphics.
Accepted File Types
- Vector formats: .AI, .EPS, .PDF
- High-res raster: .JPG, .PNG, .TIFF (300 DPI minimum)
- We do not accept Word, PowerPoint, or low-resolution screenshots.
Artwork Setup Requirments
- Size: Submit artwork at full size or scaled proportionally (indicate scale).
- Bleed: Add 0.125" to 0.25" bleed on all sides if edge-to-edge printing is needed.
- Safe Area: Keep all essential elements 0.5" away from the edges.
- Color Mode: Use CMYK for accurate print results.
Common Artwork Issues to Avoid
Small mistakes in artwork can lead to big problems on print day. Watch out for these common issues:
Low Resolution
Missing Fonts
Unflattened Layers
Wrong Color Profile
Real Sign Results from Quality Artwork
See how great artwork leads to stunning signs—our gallery features real projects brought to life with professional file preparation
Our File Review Process
At Signs NYC, we check all submitted artwork for print readiness. If something’s off, we’ll notify you and offer a quick fix or file adjustment services.
Need help? We also offer professional file preparation if you’re unsure how to set up your artwork correctly.
How to Check Your File Before Submitting
- Confirm the correct size and resolution
- Check for embedded or outlined fonts
- Review your design in CMYK mode
- Include bleeds and observe safe zones
- Save your file in the correct format (PDF preferred)
Tips for Designers in NYC
Whether you’re designing for outdoor signs in Times Square or a boutique storefront in SoHo, here are pro tips to keep in mind:
Keep it Simple
Account for Installation
Brand Consistency
Mockups Help
About Signs NYC
Based in the heart of New York City, Signs NYC is a trusted name in custom signage and large-format printing. We specialize in producing high-quality, visually impactful signs for businesses of all sizes—from local startups to major corporations.
With a deep understanding of NYC’s fast-paced business environment, we proudly serve Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, and the Tri-State Area, delivering premium signage solutions that meet tight deadlines without compromising quality.
Let’s Get Your Artwork Print-Ready
At Signs NYC, we want your signs to look their best. Follow these artwork guidelines and we’ll handle the rest—from pre-press checks to final installation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I send a photo from my phone as artwork?
No, phone photos usually lack the resolution required for printing. Please provide a high-resolution image or vector file.
Do you design signs too?
Yes, we offer full design services if you don’t have artwork or need help setting up your file.
What if I don’t know how to add bleed?
No worries—send us your file and we’ll adjust it or guide you through it.
Can I send a Word or PowerPoint file?
Unfortunately, no. These formats aren’t print-ready and often result in low-quality outputs.