Artwork Guidelines
Great prints start with great files
Here’s how to send artwork that prints sharp. Not sure about your file? Send it anyway. We check every file and will let you know if something needs fixing before we print.
DTF transfers: print exactly as uploaded, so check size, spelling and transparency before ordering.
Best file types
- Best: PNG with a transparent background, PDF, SVG, AI or EPS (vector files scale to any size without getting blurry)
- Also accepted: JPG, PSD, up to 20 MB
- Avoid: Screenshots, images copied from websites or social media, and photos of printed shirts. They’re usually too small and blurry.
Size and resolution
- 300 DPI at the size you want printed (for example, a 10" wide print needs an image about 3000 pixels wide)
- If your image looks blurry or blocky when you zoom in, it’ll look that way on the shirt.
Backgrounds
- Transparent backgrounds print best. Anything that isn’t transparent, including white boxes, gets printed.
- Don’t have one? We remove simple backgrounds for free.
What prints well (and what doesn’t)
- Thin lines: keep lines at least 1 pt (0.35 mm) thick
- Small text: at least 8 pt tall at print size
- Gradients and photos: print well, though very faint fades can look patchy at the edges
- Colors: screens show colors brighter than ink. Neon and very bright colors may print slightly duller.
- Dark shirts: dark artwork on dark shirts can disappear. Check your proof.
Common print sizes
Our largest print area is 12" × 12", on every product.
| Placement | Print size |
|---|---|
| Full front | Up to 12" × 12" |
| Center chest | Up to 12" × 6" |
| Left chest | Up to 4" × 4" |
| Back | Up to 12" × 12" |
| Polos (back) | Up to 10" × 12" |
| Hats (front) | Up to 4" × 2.25" |
Small hoodies (size XS and S) can’t take a print taller than 10", so taller prints are scaled down to fit.
Design help
We do free basic cleanup: background removal, sizing and placement. Need a full redraw or a new design? Email us and we’ll quote it.
Your proof
Every order gets a proof before printing. Check spelling, colors, size and placement carefully; we print exactly what you approve.
Using someone else’s logo or artwork
You need permission to print logos, characters or images you don’t own. We may refuse designs that infringe someone’s rights.
Still need help?
Not sure your file will print well? Send it to us and we’ll check.
help@inkcraftusa.com · We reply within 1 business day, Monday–Friday.