To deliver crisp, production-ready merch and prevent printing delays, follow these guidelines when uploading artwork or sending files to our design team.
Branding Checklist
When preparing your assets, make sure you have the following ready:
Vector Logo or High-Res PNG: Your primary logo in a vector format (
.ai,.eps, or.svg) or high-resolution.pngfile. (Note: JPEG files are not supported).Text in Outlines: All fonts within vector files converted to "outlines" (geometric shapes).
Light & Dark Versions: Logo variations optimized for both light and dark backgrounds.
Brand Guidelines: A document detailing your hex colors, font names, and spacing requirements (if available).
File & Artwork Requirements
Depending on the artwork format you upload, keep these core specifications in mind:
Requirement | Vector Files (.ai, .eps, .svg) | PNG Files (.png) |
Supported File Types |
| PNG fully supported (JPEGs not accepted). |
Best Used For | Apparel, outerwear, embroidery, and high-precision print methods. | T-shirts, hoodies, drinkware, and digital product mockups. |
Background | Transparent background. | Transparent background is strongly recommended. |
Resolution / Dimensions | Infinite scaling (built with mathematical equations, no pixelation). | Minimum 150 DPI (300 DPI is best). File width should be at least 4,000 pixels. |
Color Profile | CMYK. Include PMS color codes if using brand guidelines. | CMYK. Exact PMS matching is not available for standard direct-to-garment prints. |
Raster (PNG) vs. Vector: Understanding the Difference
While PNGs are made of pixels, Vector files are built with mathematical equations. Both are supported, but understanding the difference helps achieve the best print results.
Feature | PNG Files (.png) | Vector Files (.ai, .eps, .svg) |
Composition | Pixels (Tiny dots) | Geometric Shapes & Paths |
Resizing | May lose quality / become pixelated if enlarged beyond original size | Infinite scalability with zero loss in quality |
Best For | T-shirts, hoodies, drinkware, and general apparel prints | Logos, physical merchandise, and detailed embroidery |
Editability | Limited | Fully editable (recolor, resize, move elements) |
What does "Text in Outlines" mean?
If a vector file contains live text, missing fonts will automatically default to generic fonts on another system. Converting text to Outlines turns letters into solid vector shapes so your typography displays perfectly every time.
In Adobe Illustrator: Select all text > Go to Type > Click Create Outlines.
Embroidery Guidelines
Embroidery uses thread rather than ink, which introduces specific technical considerations:
Keep It Simple: Avoid gradients, distressed textures, or ultra-fine details.
Minimum Text Size: Text must be at least 0.25 inches high and 0.05 inches thick to stitch clearly.
Thread Limits: Maximum of 6 thread colors per design.
Pro Tip: If your primary logo is very detailed, upload a simplified line-art or icon version specifically for embroidered items (hats, polos, jackets, and bags).
Understanding Decoration Methods
Different merchandise items utilize different production techniques:
Method | Best For | Description & Key Considerations |
Direct-to-Garment (DTG) | Apparel (T-shirts, hoodies) | Inkjet prints directly onto fabric for a soft-touch feel. Colors may appear slightly muted on dark garments; cannot match exact PMS codes. |
UV Printing | Hard Goods (Drinkware, plastic, metal) | Cured ink creates a vibrant, slightly raised, highly durable design. |
Sublimation | Blankets, towels, select bags | Ink heat-bonds directly with fabric fibers. Great for all-over prints (minor fabric creases during printing may show faint white lines). |
Embroidery | Hats, jackets, polos, backpacks | Stitched thread offers a premium, long-lasting finish. Cannot reproduce gradients or microscopic text. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I upload a JPEG file?
No, JPEGs are not supported because they do not support transparent backgrounds. Please convert or export your artwork as a PNG with a transparent background or use a Vector file (
.AI,.EPS,.SVG).I don't have my logo in a vector format. Can I use a PNG?
Yes! High-resolution PNG files (at least 150–300 DPI, with a transparent background) are supported for print items.
I have an .AI file, but I can't open it on my computer!
That is completely normal! Vector files require professional design software to open. Simply upload or email the file directly to our team, and we will verify the quality for you.