How to Prep Artwork for Print: 300 DPI, PNG vs SVG, and Common File Mistakes
If you’ve ever had a print order slow down because of “the file,” you’re not alone. The good news is you don’t need to be a designer to send print-ready artwork, you just need a few simple rules.
The #1 rule: send the best file you have
If you have one of these, send it first:
· AI (Adobe Illustrator)
· SVG
· PDF (vector)
· PSD (Photoshop)
If you don’t have vector, the next best is:
· PNG (transparent background)
300 DPI explained (without the jargon)
DPI = how much detail your image has.
· 300 DPI is the standard for sharp printing.
· A screenshot is usually 72 DPI (and it will look blurry when enlarged).
Quick test: If you zoom in and the edges look jagged on your screen, it will look worse in print.
PNG vs SVG: when to use what
PNG (best for)
· Full-colour graphics
· Photos
· Designs with shading/gradients
Must-have: transparent background (no white box behind your logo).
SVG (best for)
· Logos
· Text-based designs
· Clean shapes and icons
SVGs scale infinitely without getting blurry, perfect for printing.
Size matters: build it for the size you want printed
As a rough guide:
· Left chest logo: 3–4 inches wide
· Full front: 10–12 inches wide
· Back print: 11–13 inches wide
Common file mistakes (and how to fix them)
· Screenshots of logos → ask for the original logo file or export a high-res PNG.
· JPEG with a background → export PNG with transparency.
· Tiny files → don’t stretch them; request a vector or have it recreated.
· Fonts not outlined (vector files) → convert text to outlines before sending.
· Wrong colours → provide brand colours (HEX or Pantone if you have them).
What to include when you send your artwork
· Your file(s)
· Placement notes (front, back, sleeve)
· Print size (in inches)
· Garment colour(s)
· Deadline/event date
When in doubt, send what you have
If you’re not sure your file is good enough, send it anyway, we can tell you what’s usable and what needs a quick cleanup before printing.
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