Preparing Artwork for Unusual or Textured Substrates: What Designers Need to Know

These unusual or textured substrates open the door to innovation in décor, retail, packaging, and experiential design.

But designing for these surfaces is different. Texture changes how light behaves, how ink sits, and how the final image is perceived.

Whether you're working with a digitally printable canvas, linen-textured wallpaper, or rough boards, here’s how to prepare your artwork for flawless print results.

Understand the Substrate’s Surface Behavior

Before opening Illustrator or Photoshop, ask:

• Is the substrate smooth, semi-textured, or heavily textured?

• Will the texture interfere with fine details or readability?

• Will it absorb, reflect, or distort color differently?

Tip: Always request a print test or swatch on the actual material. Substrate Bank is a great tool for checking performance notes, ink compatibility, and printer recommendations for specialty materials, or ask a swatch directly from the manufacturer itself.

Adjust Your Design for Texture Interaction

Texture adds depth — but it also interrupts visual detail. Simplify your design accordingly:

• Use bolder lines and less intricate detail in areas that overlap textured surfaces

• Increase contrast and saturation to maintain visual impact

• Avoid thin fonts or fine outlines — they can become unreadable on uneven surfaces

• Use texture intentionally — design around knots in wood, slubs in textiles, or brushed grain in metal

Think of it as designing with the substrate, not just on it.

Work at Actual Size and Resolution

Printing on unique substrates often leaves less margin for error. Prepare your artwork:

• At actual print size with minimum 150–300 DPI

• With bleed and crop marks if contour cutting is involved

• Flattened where possible (especially for RIP systems that struggle with transparencies)

Tip: Save in a print-ready PDF/X format — but keep layered versions for tweaks.

Color Management: Know What to Expect

Textured and specialty substrates may absorb or reflect light differently than coated stock — which can shift how your colors appear.

• Work in CMYK (not RGB) for accuracy

• Expect reduced sharpness and contrast on rough surfaces

• Ask your printer for a custom ICC profile or use RIP-based color correction

• Avoid heavy ink saturation on porous surfaces — it can bleed or muddy

Account for Finishing and Mounting

Some substrates will be stretched, curved, folded, or mounted after printing. Plan for it:

• Keep text and key elements away from edges

• Anticipate folds, seams, or tension points in textiles or wallpapers

• If printing to wood or leather, know that grain and color variation will show through

• Test how white inks or spot varnishes react to uneven surfaces

Design with the end use — and end look — in mind.

Communicate Clearly with the Printer

Designers and printers should be partners. The more your print provider knows about your material and vision, the better the outcome.

• Share substrate specs or product sheets early

• Discuss substrate limitations and options for over-printing or base layers

• Request a proof or test patch before final production

• Confirm your printer’s ink type (UV, latex, solvent) for better control

Conclusion: Great Design Starts With the Right Surface Strategy

Unusual or textured substrates offer unique visual and tactile experiences — but they demand intentional, adaptive artwork preparation. Whether you’re designing for a custom wood panel, textile wall graphic, or brushed aluminum display, planning ahead ensures your creative vision holds up on every surface.

Because in digital print, it’s not just about designing what looks good on screen — it’s about designing what works beautifully in real life.