If you’re wondering how to create artwork for blank products, it is actually a simple yet thoughtful process that can turn everyday items like magnets and keyrings into polished, personal displays. It starts with having the correct measurements regarding the insert size of the product and then using the correct software to create your images, then cutting the insert to ensure a perfect fit. 

Whether you’re creating small personalised gifts, adding branded touches to business merchandise, or exploring creative craft projects, custom inserts are a quick and reliable way to make your products stand out and the aim is always the same: a clean, professional finish that brings your products to life. In this FAQ-style blog, we’ll walk you through each step of our artwork process and answer the most common questions, so you can frame memories with confidence and style.

How do I create artwork for my custom inserts?

Creating artwork for your custom products is simple with the right tools. We recommend using Canva. It’s free to use, works right in your browser, and makes it easy to design, customise, and prepare artwork that fits our products perfectly.

There are two ways in which you can create your artwork depending on whether you’re designing one style across the whole page or want to share different designs on a single sheet, here’s how to get started:

Option 1: One Design Repeated (e.g. for Keyrings)

• Open Canva → Create a design → Custom size: 210mm × 297mm (A4)
  

• Add your template:
  Go to Elements, then add a square or rectangle
  Resize to 50mm × 35mm
  Use a light grey outline or thin border so it’s visible but doesn’t interfere
  

• Insert your design:
  Add your photo, text, and any creative elements
  

• Duplicate:
  Select the full design + template
  Press Ctrl + D to copy
  Repeat the design across the page, leaving small gaps between each piece so you have space to cut without affecting the patterns you’ve created to fill the sheet
  

• Download, print, cut & insert into your product

Option 2: Different Designs on One Page

1. Follow steps 1-2 above to create and duplicate the blank template
   

2. Then go into each frame and add a different design - photo, logo, message, etc.
   

3. Once you're happy with the layout: Download, print, cut, and use

Helpful Tips

• You can include logos, social handles, or even business contact details in your designs

• Experiment with different shapes, colours, or text to mix in creative ideas and inspiration that suit your product and style. Don’t be afraid to apply your creativity and experiment with different designs, whether it’s a simple photo, a bold logo, or a mix of patterns you love

• Save time by reusing templates for future orders
  

• This method works well across products like keyrings, magnets, coasters, badges and more

• You’ll also find step-by-step videos and guides on our site for using systems like KeyringFab for keyring designs and badge-making with the G-Series, plus precision cutters to make the process even smoother

What makes custom inserts a good choice for personal or business use?

For personalised gifts, corporate promotional merchandise, a well-designed insert adds that high-quality, professional touch. You can even add logos, messages, or custom elements to match your brand, making your product stand out while reinforcing your business identity.

Whether you're working on a small order or preparing to share your products online, custom inserts are a smart way to protect your photo, show your design at its best, and deliver a top-quality finish without taking extra time or tools to get it right.

What are common uses for custom blank promotional insert items?

• Product Packaging: Keep prints, coasters, keyrings, and other small items secure during retail or e-commerce delivery
  

• Photography Portfolios: Add a clean, professional touch to presentation boxes or keepsakes

• Gift Boxes & Promo Kits: Create a polished, organised unboxing experience for personalised gifts or branded merchandise
  

• Retail Displays: Present custom products in-store with consistent alignment and visual appeal

When you create artwork for blank products, the possibilities are endless. You can choose simple text-based designs, apply creative patterns, or mix photos and logos for a personalised touch. Each piece can be tailored to suit the product size and shape, whether it’s a small keepsake for home use or a branded item for business. This flexibility gives you the freedom to find inspiration, experiment with new ideas, and create beautiful results every time. Our products are a practical base for any custom-printed or photo-ready item, helping protect, present, and promote your products without extra hassle.

What paper do you recommend using?

We recommend using paper around 120 gsm for your custom photo inserts. It offers a good balance of strength, quality, and flexibility - enough to protect your photo and give a clean, professional finish.

It’s also worth noting that the quality of paper and your printer will greatly affect how your artwork looks.  Basic paper and a low grade printer may not deliver the sharp results you want. For that crisp, clean finish, we suggest using high-quality graphics paper paired with a reliable printer to really bring your designs to life.

How long does it typically take to produce custom artwork?

Producing custom artwork with our blank products can be as quick or as detailed as you choose. With the right tools, you can go from design to finished piece in just a few minutes. Our KeyringFab System and G-Series Badge System make the process simple, letting you print, cut to size, and insert without extra effort. At the same time, your creativity is only limited by your imagination, so you can spend as much time as you like experimenting with designs, adding personal touches, and creating something truly unique.

To save even more time, use our precise cutters that give you a clean, accurate fit without the need for extra measuring or trimming. This means you can focus on creating high-quality, personalised designs without worrying about wasted materials or uneven edges.

Whether you’re making a single photo gift or handling a large volume business order, these systems ensure that every insert is made to a professional standard and ready to use straight away. With everything you need in one place, personalising your products is not only quick, but also enjoyable and reliable.

Wrapping Up

Imaginative artwork makes it easy to transform simple blank products into personalised gifts, branded merchandise, or stylish keepsakes. With the right tools and software, you can go from design to finished product in minutes, all while achieving a high-quality, professional finish.

Whether you’re creating something small and personal or producing larger orders for your business, My-Accessories provides everything you need in one place. You’ll find everything ready to order online, with excellent service and helpful guides to check that your artwork suits the size and shape of each blank product. Explore our full range of blank insert products and tools online, and start creating inserts that protect, present, and truly showcase your photos and artwork.