Custom iPad Smart Cover FAQ – Blue Poly

Product Information

iPad Smart Covers are decorated in-house using our laser engraving machine. In this process the laser melts or removes the top surface of material. It is not printing and no color is added. There is usually some variation in the color and appearance of each cover. If you need to order a large number of covers that all look identical then this is not the decoration process to use. Debossed and printed iPad cases may be a better choice for your needs.

The current blue polyurethane smart cover for iPad sold by Apple can be laser engraved in two different styles based on the depth of the engraving. When you submit your artwork we can make recommendations on the best style to use and tell you whether it is possible to achieve the look that you want.  The inside of polyurethane Smart Covers engrave much nicer than the outside.  We can engrave photographs and artwork with shading on the inside of your poly cover.

If you are ordering multiple covers we very strongly recommend doing one as a sample first, receiving it in person, and adjusting your artwork as needed. This process generally takes about two weeks, but quick turnaround orders are possible by taking advantage of our rush service options.  We do not recommend ordering a large number of covers without an in-person proof. Returns or refunds are not possible for custom items.

Be sure to also read our Smart Cover F.A.Q. below.

Custom Smart Covers

Can you put my logo, photo, text, or other artwork onto an iPad Smart Cover?

Probably. Certain colors of covers require specific types of artwork.

How do you decorate iPad Smart Covers?

iPad Smart Covers are only customized using laser engraving. The process melts, burns, or removes the outer layer of material of the cover. The appearance depends on the color and material of the cover itself. The process is not printing and no color is added.

What kind of artwork do I need to engrave a Smart Cover?

Artwork for polyurethane Smart Covers must be only pure black and white (1-bit) and should be in a vector format or at least 300 dpi (6oo dpi is preferable).

Artwork for leather Smart Covers is more flexible and can contain shading or photos. Any part of the artwork that is not black is dithered to a half-tone pattern. Clear, high contrast photos produce the best results. All artwork must be at least 300 dpi for the size engraved or a vector format.

How can I tell if my artwork is high enough quality?

There is a very useful inches/dpi to pixels converter here: http://auctionrepair.com/pixels.htm

Our website's online designer will also provide you with a green, yellow, red display of image quality.

Do you offer discounts for bulk Smart Cover orders?

We purchase iPad Smart Covers directly from Apple and cannot offer any discounts on the cost of the covers themselves. On large orders we do offer a discount off the engraving service. Please send us your artwork to request a quote.

Can both sides of the cover be engraved?

Yes. The microfiber material used on the inside of the smart cover laser engraves very nicely. The appearance of the engraving is a darker hue than the original color.

How do I know what my engraved cover will look like?

We are putting together pages to show real examples of each color iPad Smart Cover. If you have any questions please contact us before ordering.

I received a proof or mockup of my Smart Cover order, will the actual engraving look just like it?

Due to the nature of the material of the Smart Covers and other factors beyond our control it is very difficult to accurately portray the final appearance of the engraving.

We provide electronic proofs to allow you to check the size and positioning of your artwork on the cover. It is not intended to be an accurate reflection of color, texture or detail level of the engraving.

Can my design go across the seams in the cover?

Yes, this is not a problem unless you are attempting to do a very deep engraving. Deep engravings (popular on blue, green, and pink poly covers) cannot go over the seam or holes will develop in the cover material.

I don't like my cover, can I return it for a refund?

Unfortunately we are unable to accept returns or offer refunds on custom products. If you have any questions about the product please ask before ordering. If you are ordering a large number of covers we very strongly recommend ordering a single cover as a sample to examine in person.