FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

ART & PRODUCTION INFORMATION

WHAT IS VECTOR ART?
In the most purest form, vector art is art made up of points, lines and curves that are represented by mathematical equations as opposed to mapped pixels like in a raster or bitmap file(i.e. jpg). Vector art is resolution independent, which means that it can be scaled to any size and still retain its sharpness and detail without any loss in quality. Most vector files are in an ai, eps, or pdf file format.

CAN I INCREASE THE DPI TO RAISE MY RESOLUTION?
No, once the art has had the dpi reduced it cannot be raised again. Ideally, vector image files should be at least 300 dpi at scale in order to print clean.

HOW CAN I UPLOAD MY ARTWORK FILES?
You may submit artwork files up to 10MB through direct e-mail submission. For extremely large file uploads, refer to the “Resources/Downloads” drop down and select the red File Transfer button to begin the upload process. You can also submit a CD-Rom or thumb drive through the mail or by dropping off to our facility.

DO YOU OFFER PANTONE® (PMS) COLOR MATCHING?
Yes, WestCoast Shirtworks utilizes a PANTONE® Licensed Ink Mixing System to simulate Pantone® colors. Ink mixing and color matching is done in-house under strict quality standards.

DOES MY ARTWORK REQUIRE AN UNDERBASE WHEN SCREENPRINTING?
The general rule of thumb is that any image printed on a dark substrate will require an underbase for proper image opacity & correct color reproduction. If you have any questions as to whether or not your graphics will require an underbase, please contact us and we will be happy to review your artwork.

DO YOU OFFER 4-COLOR PROCESS SCREENPRINTING?
WestCoast Shirtworks no longer utilizes 4-color printing process on apparel. Instead, we use the more modern Simulated Process method to produce stunning full color images on both light and dark garments. The simulated process method delivers better color accuracy, clarity, opacity, and consistency beyond the typical results achieved through 4-color process. Standard 4-color process printing may still be utilized on various promotional items, such as cups and mouse pads.

WILL YOU SEND A DIGITAL PROOF BEFORE MY JOB IS PRINTED?
Absolutely! When placing your order, we will develop a color proof of your artwork layed out on the particular items you are ordering which details all the pertinent information of your particular order. Please remember that production time does not begin until after the proof has been approved and signed off. Shifts in color may vary depending on monitor calibration.

ARE RUSH SERVICES AVAILABLE?
Expedited turnaround is usually available. We will, for an additional charge, produce an order in less than normal production time. Charges vary depending on our current work load, item involved, complexity of art, and production method being used.

DO YOU OFFER FOLDING AND POLY BAG SERVICES?
Yes, WestCoast Shirtworks utilizes state of the art automated folding and bagging machines. We stock a range of poly bag sizes to accommodate most garment types. Size stickers are adhered to the exterior of each garment in order to easily identify the apparel size.

DO YOU OFFER DIGITAL GARMENT PRINTING?
WestCoast Shirtworks does not offer digital garment printing. Our extensive research has concluded that the available equipment on the market today does not meet our standards in imprint consistency nor our production demands and does not provide cost effectiveness to our clients.

DO YOU PRINT ON HATS?
WestCoast Shirtworks does not offer screenprinting on headwear, but we do offer several embroidery options on most hats.

ORDERING INFORMATION

CAN I EMAIL YOU MY ORDER?
Yes! You can send your order & artwork via email to sales@wcshirtworks.com. Please always include the following:

  • Complete name, address, and contact telephone numbers
  • Item Style # and Description
  • Color, Size, & Quantity
  • Imprint Colors, including ink colors and numbers (i.e. Royal Blue PMS #186 C)

It is a good idea to compress files using an archiving software such as WinZiP to avoid problems during transmission. To assure we can accurately view your art, please send a JPEG or PDF file along with your vector art for verification. For more information see our Artwork Guidelines for submitting art.

WHAT IF I NEED TO CANCEL AN ORDER?
If you need to cancel an order please contact us as soon as possible. In the event of an order cancellation, if we have commenced work on the order, we shall be entitled to full reimbursement for any cost already incurred, including penalties or restocking charges that suppliers may charge.

CAN I ORDER A NON-STANDARD QUANTITY?
Yes. Any order calling for quantities in-between standard catalog quantities will be priced at the lower quantity price.

DO YOU HAVE OVERRUNS/UNDERRUNS?
Yes. Due to the difficulty of manufacturing to exact quantity requirements without sacrificing quality, a shipment of 3% over or under the quantity ordered will constitute a complete order for screenprinting & embroidery and 5% on promotional items. You will be billed accordingly on what you receive.

WHAT IS THE TURNAROUND FOR YOUR PRODUCTS?
Our production time varies from product to product. Screenprinted & embroidered products generally take 7-10 business days. For promotional items please reference our Online Catalog for production times on specific products and be sure to add for shipping duration. Please note production times are approximate and only start once your invoice & color proof are approved. Specific due dates must be confirmed with our Sales Department in advance.

SHIPPING INFORMATION

WHAT ARE YOUR SHIPPING POLICIES?
We prefer you come in to pick up your order. If you cannot stop in to see us, we will ship your goods via Ground Freight utilizing our standard carrier (UPS). Before shipping your order, all balances must be paid in full.

CAN YOU SHIP MY ORDER C.O.D.?
No. Orders should be paid in full or payment arrangements made prior to shipping.

CAN YOU DROP SHIP TO MULTIPLE LOCATIONS?
Orders can usually be sent to different locations. Inquire with our staff about your particular needs and any additional costs for split shipments.

CAN YOU SEND ME SAMPLES?
On most Apparel & Promotional items we can procure samples for a small fee plus shipping. Inquire with our Sales Department about your particular needs and we will try our best to accommodate you.