Great garments can be let down by poorly prepared artwork. Blurry edges, wrong colours and logos that are too big or too small usually come from files that were not set up for apparel decoration.
This guide covers the file formats, sizing, colour and placement rules that help your designs print sharp and stitch cleanly, whichever decoration method you choose.
Vector vs raster artwork
| Vector | Raster | |
|---|---|---|
| Formats | AI, EPS, PDF, SVG | PNG, PSD, TIFF, JPG |
| Scales without quality loss | Yes | No |
| Best for | Screen printing, embroidery, logos, text | Photographic and highly detailed designs for DTG, DTF and sublimation |
If you only have a low-resolution logo, ask for it to be redrawn as vector before production. It is a one-time job that pays off on every future order.
Resolution and size
- Create raster files at 300 DPI at the actual print size, not scaled up later.
- Use a transparent background (PNG) unless the background is part of the design.
- Convert text to outlines in vector files so fonts do not change.
- Check that thin lines are thick enough to print or stitch reliably.
Common print sizes and placements
| Placement | Typical use |
|---|---|
| Left chest | Small logo, popular on polos, tees and hoodies |
| Full front | Main graphic, centred below the collar |
| Full back | Large graphics, often paired with a chest logo |
| Upper back / neck | Small logo or wordmark below the collar |
| Sleeve | Wordmarks, small icons or vertical text |
| Hat front | Embroidered or patch logo |
Always give the print width and height and its distance from a fixed point, such as “3 in below collar seam, centred”. Remember that the same print looks larger on a small size than on an XXL. Note placement in your tech pack.
Artwork rules by decoration method
Screen printing
Each colour needs its own screen, so the number of colours affects setup. Supply vector artwork with colours separated and specify each colour by a standard colour reference. Fine halftones are possible but should be discussed in advance. Learn more about screen printing.
DTG printing
Prints full colour directly onto the garment, so photographic detail and gradients work well. Supply a high-resolution PNG at print size. Works best on cotton-rich fabrics. See DTG printing.
DTF printing
Prints onto film, then heat-presses onto the garment. Handles detail and many fabric types. Supply a high-resolution PNG with a clean transparent background, avoiding semi-transparent edges. See DTF printing.
Sublimation
Dye becomes part of polyester fabric, ideal for all-over designs. Artwork must cover the full pattern piece with bleed. See sublimation printing.
Embroidery
Artwork is converted to a stitch file (digitizing). Keep designs bold and simple: avoid tiny text, hairline details and gradients. Limit thread colours for a cleaner look, and consider patches for highly detailed logos. See embroidery.
Not sure which method suits your design? Our printing methods overview compares them side by side.
Colour accuracy tips
- Screens show colour differently from fabric. Use a standard colour reference for critical brand colours.
- Fabric colour changes how ink looks. Light ink on dark fabric often needs an underbase.
- Approve colour on a physical sample, not only on screen. See our sampling guide.
Artwork submission checklist
- Vector file for logos and text, or 300 DPI PNG at print size
- Text converted to outlines
- Colour references for each colour
- Print size and placement for every location
- Decoration method for each location
- A mockup on the garment colour
Frequently asked questions
What file format is best for apparel printing?
Vector files (AI, EPS, PDF or SVG) are best for screen printing and embroidery because they scale without losing quality. For DTG, DTF and sublimation, high-resolution PNG files with transparent backgrounds also work well.
What resolution should artwork be for printing on shirts?
Raster artwork should be 300 DPI at the actual print size. A design that looks sharp on screen at a small size may print blurry if it is enlarged.
Can any design be embroidered?
Most logos can, but very small text, thin lines and subtle gradients do not stitch well. Simplifying the design and keeping text above a minimum size gives the cleanest result.
How do I specify where a print goes on a garment?
State the print width and height and its position from a fixed reference point, for example 3 inches below the collar seam and centred. Include a mockup showing placement.
Send us your artwork
Share your files with your quote request and we will recommend the best decoration method for your design and fabric. Get a quote within 24 hours.
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