July 28, 2025

Preparing Print-Ready Files for Sublimation

Great decoration starts with great artwork files. For brands and designers new to digital sublimation, understanding the file requirements upfront saves time and ensures the best possible result on glass.

File Format

ATIU accepts high-resolution PDF, TIFF and AI files. Vector artwork is preferred for text, logos and geometric elements — it scales cleanly to any bottle size. Photographic elements should be embedded at full resolution. Layered files are helpful for pre-press adjustments.

Resolution

For photographic imagery, a minimum of 300 DPI at final print size ensures sharp reproduction. Sublimation captures fine detail, so higher resolution translates directly into better results. Avoid upscaling low-resolution images — artefacts that are invisible on screen become visible on glass.

Colour Profiles

Artwork should be supplied in CMYK colour space. ATIU's pre-press team in Verona manages colour conversion and profiling for each glass substrate. Pantone references are useful for brand-critical colours. A physical colour proof or reference sample accelerates approval.

Artwork Layout

Sublimation wraps the bottle surface. Artwork must account for the bottle's three-dimensional geometry — circumference, taper, shoulder and heel. ATIU provides bottle-specific templates for each glass format. Designers map their artwork onto these templates, ensuring registration and seam alignment.

Bleed and Safe Zones

Include a minimum 3mm bleed beyond the decoration area. Keep critical text and logos within the safe zone to avoid distortion at edges or seams. ATIU's templates mark these boundaries clearly.

Pre-Press Support

ATIU's team reviews every file before production. We check resolution, colour accuracy, bleed and registration. If adjustments are needed, we collaborate with the design team to optimise the file — at no additional charge. This ensures the final decoration matches the approved concept.