DTF Artwork Guidelines | PNG (RGB) File Requirements
Artwork Guidelines (DTF Transfers & UV DTF)
Files are printed as submitted. Please review your artwork before uploading. Improper file setup can delay production.
We reserve the right to refuse files that contain profanity, hate, or offensive content.
Fast File Setup Checklist
Your File Prints As Submitted
What you upload is what prints. We do a basic file review, but we do not automatically redesign customer artwork. Please confirm spelling, final size, background/transparency, and layout spacing before ordering.
Preferred File Format (Best for Our Workflow)
Best choice: high-resolution PNG (RGB), 300 DPI at final size, with transparent background when needed. Why PNG? It’s flattened and usually produces the most consistent result.
Backgrounds Will Print
If your file includes a background, it will print. For no background, use transparent PNG. JPG/JPEG always have a solid background. This is one of the most common upload mistakes—double check before submitting.
Transfers Ship on a Roll / Sheet
Transfers ship on a roll/sheet and are not cut apart. If you upload multiple designs, you’ll receive them together and trim as needed.
Accepted File Types
Preferred: PNG (RGB, 300 DPI)
Also accepted (when prepared correctly): PDF, AI, EPS, SVG, PSD
JPG/JPEG: less ideal (no transparency). Important: JPG/JPEG backgrounds will print unless removed before export.
Only Include What You Want Printed
Do not include notes or instructions inside the file, extra copies of the same design, hidden layers, or backup versions. Gang sheet uploads: multiple designs in one file are fine—just keep spacing between designs.
Hard Edges Print Cleaner
Hard, defined edges produce the cleanest results. Soft fades and feathered edges often don’t look the same in print as on screen. If you want a softer look, use a halftone style instead of transparency fades.
Avoid Transparencies
Partial transparency and fade effects are not recommended. DTF uses a white underbase, so transparent effects may print differently than expected. If you need a fade effect, use a halftone pattern whenever possible.
Color Expectations (RGB Preferred for Our Workflow)
We prefer RGB PNG files for our workflow. Some shops work in CMYK; our setup is built to process RGB consistently.
Important: Screen color is a preview, not a guarantee. Monitors vary, many aren’t calibrated, and print vs. screen color is created differently.
We Do Not Color Match
We do not guarantee exact color matching, including Pantone/spot colors, screen-to-print matching, or exact matching between separate runs. If exact brand color is critical, place a small test order first.
Minimum Detail (Thin Lines & Small Text)
For better results:
- Avoid tiny text
- Avoid very thin lines
- Use readable fonts
- Make thin outlines slightly thicker when possible
Bolder detail prints more reliably.
Gang Sheet Spacing Rules
Spacing matters for trimming and handling:
- Leave ~0.25" between designs
- Don’t crowd designs too close together
- Leave some space near edges
- Group designs by size/type when possible
Tight spacing = harder trimming + more handling mistakes.
Ordering multiple designs? Start with DTF Gang Sheets.
Artboard / Page Size Must Match Your Design
Your artboard/page should match your design size (or be slightly larger). Too much empty space can cause the design to import smaller than intended, especially with PDF/vector files.
Do Not Mirror
Do not mirror your artwork unless you intentionally want a mirrored final result.
PDF / Vector Notes
If you upload PDF/vector files:
- Outline fonts
- Do not enable overprint
- Avoid clipping masks/paths when possible
- Flatten or rasterize masked areas if needed
Hidden elements inside masks can render unexpectedly.
Need Help Before You Upload?
If you’re unsure about file setup, size, spacing, backgrounds, or export settings, contact us before ordering. A quick check up front can prevent delays and avoid problems after production.
Reach us here: Contact.