Prepare a stamp image by choosing a clear original file, simplifying details that become crowded at the intended impression size, and checking the complete design before ordering. Where the selected product offers artwork upload, use SVG, PNG or JPG/JPEG in the online personaliser. PDF upload is not currently supported; contact us before ordering if your artwork is only available as a PDF.
1. Start with the clearest original artwork
Use your original logo or design file where possible. A screenshot, compressed social-media image or enlarged thumbnail may lose detail. Keep an unchanged copy of the original before making edits.
| Artwork file | What to check |
|---|---|
| SVG | Lettering and shapes remain as intended when viewed and scaled. |
| PDF cannot currently be uploaded or previewed in the online personaliser. Contact us before ordering if this is your only artwork file. | |
| PNG or JPG | The image has clear edges and enough detail at the intended printed size. |
See the artwork upload guide for the ordering process. File extensions alone do not establish image quality.
2. Choose the impression size before refining details
Look at the printed mark you need, not just the enlarged image on a screen. The selected product states its impression size. A compact square logo, circular badge and wide text layout may need different shapes.
The logo stamp buying guide compares products, including the 25 × 25 mm square 4933 and 42 mm diameter Trodat 4642. Rectangular Imprint options include 38 × 14 mm, 48 × 18 mm and 58 × 22 mm impressions.
3. Simplify shading and crowded details
For a conventional single-colour stamp, use clear solid shapes and readable lettering. Gradients, shadows and photographic shading may need converting to simpler line art or solid shapes. Merely changing a photograph to greyscale does not necessarily produce suitable artwork.
- Remove unwanted background marks and stray elements.
- Leave useful space between letters and shapes.
- Consider removing a tiny tagline or choosing a larger impression if it is difficult to read.
- When preparing vector artwork, outlining fonts can help preserve the intended lettering.
4. Check detail at the intended size
Zooming in helps find unwanted marks, but also review the design at its intended printed dimensions. A paper print at that size can help judge layout and readability; it is not a physical stamp test. Increasing an image's DPI setting alone does not recover missing detail.
There is no universal font, stroke, margin or DPI minimum stated here. Reproduction depends on the artwork, impression size, ink and material. Ask for advice if fine details remain uncertain.
5. Review the uploaded visual
Upload the prepared file to the chosen product's personaliser and check the visual for the correct logo, complete wording, spacing and alignment. Use the personaliser preview checklist. A separate manual proof is available on request.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use a JPG logo?
Yes, where the chosen product offers an artwork upload. Use SVG, PNG or JPG/JPEG and check the clearest original file at the intended impression size. PDF upload is not currently supported.
Is a PDF always vector artwork?
No. It may contain vector shapes, an embedded image or both. Check its contents at the intended impression size.
Can I fix a blurred logo by changing its DPI?
Changing that setting alone does not restore missing detail. Use a better original or ask for advice.
For artwork help or a separate manual proof, call 01695 769113.