DTF Print Detroit · Artwork guide
Artwork requirements.
Made clear.
Five visual checks to help you prepare a clean file, confirm its size and arrange your transfers.
01 · Background
Keep the design. Remove the box.
A transparent PNG is recommended. Any unwanted background in your file may print, too.
Unwanted background
A white rectangle is part of the image, not transparency. Converting a JPEG to PNG does not remove it.
Transparent background
Keep only the artwork you want printed. Check edges on both light and dark backgrounds.
Illustrative garment mockups, not an actual print test.
02 · Resolution
Sharp at print size, not just on screen.
Export from your original design. Screenshots and enlarged web images can lose the detail your transfer needs.
Too few pixels
Enlarging a small image makes softness and jagged edges more visible.
Clear original artwork
Aim for 300 DPI at final print size. Inspect fine lines and small lettering.
Illustration, not an actual print test. The checkerboard represents transparency; do not include a checkerboard in your file.
03 · Print size
What does 300 DPI mean?
Changing the DPI label alone does not add detail. Confirm the actual width and height in your order tool.
04 · Empty margins
Measure the artwork, not empty space.
Extra transparent margins can affect the size shown by an upload tool. Crop unnecessary space, then confirm the visible design’s final dimensions.
Dashed outline = file canvas. Checkerboard = transparent area. Schematic only; not to scale.
05 · Gang sheet layout
Give every transfer room.
Leave cutting space. Keep every design inside the selected sheet. Use the canvas dimensions shown by your product or builder.
Schematic only. Follow the selected tool’s layout guidance, not the distances in this example.
One last check before uploading
- Correct size, spelling and quantity.
- No unwanted backgrounds, stray pixels or faded edges.
- Normal orientation; do not mirror unless the tool instructs you to.
- Artwork you own or have permission to reproduce.
Check accepted formats in the upload tool. Screen colors may differ from print.
Not sure your file is ready? Contact us before ordering.