"Can I see it before you make it?" Yes — always. No custom inflatable leaves our factory without a 3D mockup approved by the client. This step is non-negotiable, and it protects both of us.
The 3D mockup process is the most important stage of any custom inflatable order. It is the only opportunity to verify every design decision — dimensions, colours, logo position, text — before materials are cut. Getting this stage right means your inflatable arrives exactly as expected. Skipping it, or approving too quickly, is the single most common cause of dissatisfaction in the custom inflatable industry.
Step-by-Step: How the Mockup Process Works
Submit Your Brief & Artwork
Send your design files (vector preferred), dimensions, colour references, intended use, and event date. The more detail you provide, the more accurate the first mockup will be.
Artwork: .AI / .EPS / .PDF (preferred) — JPEG/PNG accepted as reference only
Design Team Reviews Your Files
Our designers review your artwork for print quality, colour data, and dimensional feasibility. If files are unsuitable for production, we contact you before starting the mockup rather than producing an inaccurate render.
If your artwork needs vectorisation, this adds up to 24 hours before mockup delivery
3D Mockup Delivered (Within 24h)
A photorealistic CAD rendering is sent to you showing the inflatable from multiple angles, with dimensions, colours, and all artwork applied. No production begins at this stage.
Delivered via email or WhatsApp — specify your preference when briefing
Review & Revision Rounds
Review the mockup carefully. Submit revision requests in writing — one consolidated list per round is most efficient. Each round takes approximately 12–24 hours. Unlimited revisions are included at no charge.
See the review checklist below before approving
Written Approval
When you are satisfied with the design, you give written approval — a reply to our mockup email or WhatsApp message is sufficient. This is the point at which production can begin.
Written approval + deposit received = production starts the same day
Mockup Review Checklist
Work through this checklist before giving written approval. Every item takes two minutes to check and prevents a problem that would take two weeks to fix.
Design Accuracy: Virtual vs Reality
Our 3D mockup system is designed to provide a 1:1 preview of the final product. By seeing your custom inflatable in a 3D environment, you can evaluate its visual impact and identify any potential branding issues before production starts.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to receive a 3D mockup?
InflatCustom delivers an initial 3D mockup within 24 hours of receiving your complete artwork and project brief. Complex multi-element designs or large-scale structures may take up to 48 hours. The 24-hour clock starts when we have everything we need — not when you first make contact.
What file formats are needed for the 3D mockup?
We prefer vector files: Adobe Illustrator (.AI), Encapsulated PostScript (.EPS), or high-resolution PDF. For raster images, we require a minimum of 300 DPI at the intended print size. JPEG and PNG files are accepted as design references but cannot be used directly for production printing — they will be vectorised by our design team, which may add time.
How many revision rounds are included?
Unlimited revision rounds are included at no charge. We revise the 3D mockup until you are completely satisfied with the design before any production begins. In practice, most orders are approved within 1–3 revision rounds. Each round takes approximately 12–24 hours.
Can I change the design after approving the 3D mockup?
Once you have given written approval and production has begun, design changes are not possible without additional cost and time. Minor text corrections may sometimes be accommodated in the early stages of production, but structural changes, colour changes, and logo repositioning after approval require production to restart. This is why we encourage thorough review before approving.
What does the 3D mockup actually show?
The 3D mockup is a photorealistic CAD rendering showing: exact dimensions and proportions of the inflatable, colour accuracy matched to your brand specifications, logo and artwork placement on all surfaces, blower attachment point location, anchor ring positions, and the product from multiple viewing angles (front, side, rear, three-quarter). It does not show internal LED lighting simulation unless specifically requested.
Start With a Free 3D Mockup
Send us your logo, dimensions, and event details. We'll have a photorealistic 3D mockup with you within 24 hours — no payment, no commitment required at this stage.