Key Insights for Sourcing Managers
- Initial render path confirmed after brief and artwork review.
- Vector files (.AI/.EPS) ensure the highest print quality.
- Revision rounds are used to keep the mockup aligned with the brief.
- 3D previews are intended to reflect final proportions as closely as possible.
"Can I see it before you make it?" In our normal workflow, yes — we share a 3D mockup before production so both sides can confirm the direction. This step helps reduce misunderstandings before anything is cut.
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.
Vectorisation or file cleanup can add extra review time before mockup work starts
3D Mockup Direction Confirmed
A photorealistic CAD rendering is prepared to show the inflatable from multiple angles, with dimensions, colours, and 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. Revision timing depends on complexity and approval clarity.
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 schedule confirmed
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 letters and logo signs in a 3D environment, you can evaluate letter spacing, logo placement, lighting position and installation impact before production starts.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to receive a 3D mockup?
Mockup timing depends on artwork completeness, size, shape complexity and approval requirements. A clear brief helps the project team prepare the right mockup direction faster, while complex multi-element designs or large-scale structures may need additional engineering review first.
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. For giant inflatable letters, inflatable logo signs and other custom brand displays, we will review the brief and confirm the right photorealistic 3D mockup path before production is discussed.
