When designing for a small print area, such as a promotional pen, it’s essential to consider the print method being used. The production process plays a significant role in how your artwork will appear once printed, with each technique offering different visual outcomes and limitations. From single colour screen printing to full colour sublimation and laser engraving, the method selected directly influences the final result.
Before submitting your artwork, we recommend checking the technical specification on the product page. This will confirm which print method is used and outline any specific requirements for your file.
Below, you’ll find important considerations to help you create print-ready artwork that’s optimised for the best possible result on your chosen pen.
Single Colour Printing
As the name suggests, single colour printing uses one ink colour to apply your design. This method is commonly used for simpler logos or text, and is typically applied through screen or pad printing.
Things to avoid:
- Gradients or shading
- Thin or fine lines
- Pixel-based (raster) images like JPEGs or PNGs
Best practices:
- Use vector artwork only
- Stick to bold fonts and simple graphics
- Simplify your design to one colour – choose the closest match from the available ink options, alternatively use Black to keep it simple.
- Keep text above 8pt in size to ensure it’s legible at small scale
Tip: If your brand uses multiple colours, consider using a single-colour version of your logo specifically for merchandise.
Full Colour Printing
Full colour printing is great for pens that need a bit more visual impact. Techniques like sublimation and UV printing allow you to include vibrant colours, and photographic elements.
However, because the print area is still very small, it’s important to avoid overcrowding your design.
Things to avoid:
- Low resolution images (anything under 300dpi)
- Fonts that are too small (under 8pt)
- Placing contrasting colours side by side – it can cause colour bleed
Best practices:
- Use high-resolution images
- Set your artwork in CMYK colour mode
- Choose fonts 8pt or larger
- Keep designs simple – less is more in a small space
Note: Colour output may vary slightly depending on the material of the pen and the print process used.
Laser Engraving
Laser engraving is a premium option, often used for metal pens. Rather than applying ink, a laser etches your design into the surface of the pen, creating a clean, permanent mark.
This method offers a sleek, professional finish – but it’s still limited to one “colour,” typically the raw metal beneath the coating.
Things to avoid:
- Photographic images or gradients
- Multi-colour designs
- Small fonts or intricate detail
Best practices:
- Use vector files only
- Choose bold fonts and simple shapes
- Make good use of negative space to define your design
- Keep text above 8pt for clarity
Tip: Laser engraving works best when your design has strong contrast and clean lines.
Pro Tips for All Pen Designs
- Use a product-specific template – every pen style has a different print area.
- Centre your design to avoid misalignment.
- Avoid visual clutter – keep your layout clean and focused.
- View your design at actual size (100%) before submitting – if it’s hard to read on screen, it’ll be harder on the pen.