Last updated 19 October 2026.
The logo file you send has a big effect on how your uniforms turn out. A clean, high-quality file gives sharp embroidery and crisp prints. A small or blurry file can't be fixed by the machine.
This guide explains which file types to send, the difference between vector and raster files, what digitising is, and how proofs work.
What logo file do I need for embroidery or printing?
A vector file is ideal: PDF, SVG, AI or EPS. If you don't have one, a large, high-resolution PNG usually works.
The same file works for both embroidery and DTF printing. Send the best version you have, ideally the original file from whoever designed your logo.
What is the difference between vector and raster files?
A vector file is built from mathematical lines and shapes, so it stays sharp at any size. A raster file is built from pixels, so it can look blurry or blocky when enlarged.
| Vector | Raster | |
|---|---|---|
| Common formats | PDF, SVG, AI, EPS | PNG, JPG |
| Made of | Lines and shapes | Pixels |
| Scaling | Stays sharp at any size | Loses quality when enlarged |
| Good for | Embroidery and print, any size | Print if large and high resolution |
A note on PDFs: a PDF can contain vector artwork or just a pasted-in image. If your PDF was exported from design software, it's often vector. If it was made by saving a screenshot as a PDF, it's still a raster image inside.
How do I know if my file is vector?
A simple test is to zoom right in. If the edges stay smooth however close you go, the file is likely vector. If you start to see squares (pixels) or fuzzy edges, it's raster.
Other clues:
- Files ending in .ai, .eps or .svg are usually vector.
- Files ending in .png or .jpg are always raster.
- Logos copied from a website, email signature or social media profile are usually small raster images.
If you're not sure, ask your designer or printer for the "original vector logo". Your designer may have supplied it when your logo was first created.
What if I only have a PNG or JPG?
A large PNG usually works. Send the biggest version you have, ideally with a transparent background.
A small or blurry image prints small or blurry, so the quality of the file matters. We flag obvious problems on your proof. Print problems caused by supplied low-resolution artwork aren't covered under our returns policy, so it's worth sending the best file you can find.
JPGs don't support transparent backgrounds, so a JPG logo often comes with a white box around it. That can be a problem on a coloured garment. A PNG with a transparent background, or a vector file, avoids this.
What is digitising and why is there a $59 setup fee?
Digitising turns your logo into a stitch file that tells the embroidery machine where each stitch goes, in what order and in which thread colour. At Workwear Mart it's a one-time $59 + GST setup per logo.
An embroidery machine can't read a PNG or PDF directly. Someone has to plan the stitches, choose stitch types and adjust details so the logo holds its shape in thread. That work is what the setup covers.
You pay it once per logo. We keep your artwork on file, so when you reorder with the same logo, the setup isn't charged again.
DTF printing doesn't need digitising, so there's no setup fee. DTF is $10 + GST front and $20 + GST back.
Does every logo work as embroidery?
Most logos work, but some details don't translate well into thread. Very small text, thin lines, tiny gaps and gradients can be hard to stitch cleanly at chest-logo size.
Front embroidery is $12 + GST for designs up to 6,000 stitches, which suits a typical left chest logo. Back embroidery is $20 + GST for up to 15,000 stitches.
If your logo has a lot of fine detail or colour blends, DTF printing may give a closer result. Many businesses use embroidery for a simplified chest logo and DTF for a detailed back print. Our FAQ page has more on choosing between them.
How do proofs work?
After you upload your logo, we send a free digital proof within 24 hours. Nothing is embroidered or printed until you approve it.
The proof shows your logo on the garment with its size and position, so check it carefully. Look at:
- Spelling, phone numbers and web addresses
- Logo colours and thread colours
- Size and position on each garment
- Which garments, colours and sizes the logo goes on
Anything on the proof you approve is what we produce, so ask for changes before you approve. Production usually takes 2–4 weeks after approval.
Want a quick look before you order? Try the free logo mock-up to see your logo on a garment straight away.
What should I send with my logo?
Along with the file, it helps to tell us your logo colours (Pantone or hex codes if you have them), where you want each logo placed, and roughly how big.
A quick checklist:
- Vector file (PDF, SVG, AI or EPS), or the largest PNG you have
- Brand colours, if you have them
- Logo positions, such as left chest, back or sleeve
- Embroidery or DTF printing for each position
Common questions
What is the best file format for my logo?
A vector file (PDF, SVG, AI or EPS) gives the sharpest result. A large, high-resolution PNG usually works too.
Do I pay the $59 setup again on a reorder?
No. The $59 + GST digitising setup is charged once per logo. We keep your artwork on file, so reorders with the same logo don't attract it again.
Can I use a logo from my website?
Website logos are usually small raster images and may print blurry. Send the original file from your designer if you can.
Is there a setup fee for DTF printing?
No. DTF printing is $10 + GST front and $20 + GST back, with no setup fee.
