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Frequently Asked Questions

Art & Decoration

What is a setup charge?
A setup charge covers the cost to create imprinting materials. This charge varies depending on the imprint method - this could be an imprinting plate, silk screen or hot stamp - for example. The initial setup for embroidery is called digitizing while most other methods are generalized as a setup charge.

What type of file format is best?
A vector EPS, PDF or AI file is preferred. If you do not have a vector version of your artwork we can usually also work with a high resolution JPG, PDF or PSD version of your design.

Are there file types you don't prefer?
Low resolution (less than 300 dpi) JPG or GIF files are not preferred. If this is all you have, don't fret! Email your art to Jennifer at jennifer@ad-specialties.com and she will assist you with your design.

What are embroidery limitations?
Any text should be no smaller than 1/4 of an inch tall for the best outcome and the total design must stay under 5,000 stitches. Any designs over 5,000 stitches can be done, but will cost more for digitizing. It is best to stay within a 3" diameter or smaller for apparel and hat embroidery.

What are imprinting limitations?
For standard hot stamping and silk-screening, fonts must be 6 pt. or larger and the rest of your imprint or design must fit the custom imprint area depending on the item you are ordering. For laser-engraving, it is best for fonts to stay at 8 pt or larger.

Can I use any PMS color?
Most vendors have a standard set of PMS colors in stock, but if you wish to use a non-standard color you can do a custom match - additional charges may apply depending on the product. We will always try to come as close to your requested color(s) as possible with out incurring an extra charge.

What is a PMS color?
A PMS color is a part of the Pantone® Matching System. A PMS color is precisely defined by a formula using a percentage mixture of different primary inks.

Production and Shipping

Why did they send me more than what I ordered?
The reason for this is quality control. A vendor would rather do a 5-10% overrun to make sure you are getting all that you requested rather than just running the exact amount and then finding there were a few that did not pass their final inspection. You can request an exact quantity, however, there sometimes is a small charge for that.

What happens if my product is back-ordered?
If your selected product is back-ordered or out-of-stock we will inform you of the delay so you may decide if you'd like to wait for stock availability or switch to an alternate item.

What are normal production/delivery times?
Most standard items and apparel take 2-3 weeks production time. Products with more complex imprinting options may take longer: lapel pins and other metal die-cut or laser-etched items may take 4-8 weeks and most overseas orders require 6-12 weeks.

Do you offer rush production?
Yes. We have a selection of products from various vendors that can be done in quicker turn around times. Many items can also be rushed for an additional fee as well as an upgraded shipping method depending on the needed in hands date.

Apparel & Hats

What is the minimum order quantity?
Screenprinted apparel starts at a minimum of 24 pieces. Embroidered hats and apparel start at 12 piece minimums.

Payment

What payments options are available?
Check or Credit Card is preferred. We accept Visa, Master Card, Discover and now American Express too.