SEO TITLE: How to Prepare Artwork for T-Shirt Printing | MERCHMODE SUGGESTED URL: /learn/how-to-prepare-artwork-for-t-shirt-printing/ CATEGORY: PRINTING + PRODUCTION
Production-ready artwork reduces delays, interpretation and avoidable print problems.
01 / START WITH THE ORIGINAL FILE
Where possible, send the original design file rather than a screenshot or compressed social-media image.
02 / VECTOR VS RASTER
Vector files are ideal for logos, typography and flat graphics because they can scale cleanly. Common vector formats include AI, EPS, SVG and print-ready PDF. Raster artwork can also work, but it needs sufficient resolution at the intended print size.
03 / DESIGN AT THE REAL PRINT SIZE
A file that looks sharp at 5 cm wide may not remain sharp at 35 cm. Decide the intended physical print dimensions before final export.
04 / RESOLUTION
For raster artwork, provide high-resolution source files. Do not artificially enlarge a small JPEG and assume the missing detail has been restored.
05 / TRANSPARENT BACKGROUNDS
If the design should not include a box or background, provide artwork with the background removed correctly. Check edges carefully, particularly around anti-aliased artwork and photographic cut-outs.
06 / FONTS
Convert important typography to outlines where appropriate, or provide the required font files through an agreed production workflow. Missing fonts can change the design.
07 / COLOUR
Tell production whether colours are approximate or critical. If a specific brand or Pantone-style spot colour is required, state that in the brief rather than relying solely on how it appears on screen.
08 / SCREEN PRINT COLOUR SEPARATION
Multi-colour screen print requires separations. Do not assume every supplied PDF is automatically separated correctly. A printer may prepare separations from good source artwork, but clean layers and clear colour intent help.
09 / FINE DETAIL
Extremely fine lines, tiny text and small negative spaces can become difficult depending on print method, garment texture and final size. Evaluate artwork at physical scale.
10 / PRINT LOCATIONS
Provide each location separately and clearly: front, back, left chest, sleeve, leg or other placement. Include dimensions rather than instructions such as 'make it large'.
11 / MOCKUPS ARE NOT SOURCE ARTWORK
A Photoshop mockup can communicate placement and scale, but production still needs the actual artwork files.
12 / FILE CHECKLIST
Before sending artwork, confirm: - final artwork version - intended dimensions - garment colour - print locations - colour requirements - source/vector files where available - transparent background where required - reference mockup
MERCHMODE VIEW
If you are unsure whether the file is production-ready, send the best source file you have plus the visual reference. The production route can be defined from there.
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