How to prepare a file for printing on clothing - a practical guide

Key principles

• the best is the vector file for the logo and simple graphics
• PNG should have a clear background if the background is not to be printed
• evaluate raster graphics in the target print size and not just on the screen
• very thin lines may require boldness
• color displayed on the monitor does not always correspond exactly to the effect on the fabric
• before production it is worth confirming the actual dimension of marking

These rules are a good starting point, but it is always worth referring them to a specific product and technology. A different cotton shirt, a different polar, and a different technical polyester.

Step by step

1. determine marking technique and target size
2. select the best source file available
3. remove random background and unnecessary elements
4. check sharpness, small subtitles and thin lines
5. change fonts to curves in the vector file
6. send an explanatory and production version if the project is complex

The orderly order of action limits the amendments. Instead of starting with random technology, first determine the effect, product and project limitations.

The most common errors

• sending a small logo downloaded from the website
• screenshot instead of source file
• white background written in JPG, which was to be transparent
• Very small inscriptions in embroidery or Flexie
• no information on the target size

Most of them can be avoided if you check the file, dimensions and visualization before production. A sample should also be considered for large series.

Examples of applications

• company logo best passed as PDF, SVG, EPS or AI
• photo to DTF can be high quality PNG or JPG, but you need to check the resolution
• Flex design should have clear, cutable shapes
• design for embroidery is additionally converted into a stitch program

Examples show the direction, but do not replace the assessment of specific clothing. The best effect is to combine a good product, a clear design and the right technology.

Practical checklist before production

1. the best is the vector file for the logo and simple graphics
2. PNG should have a clear background if the background is not to be printed
3. evaluate raster graphics in the target print size and not just on the screen
4. determine marking technique and target size
5. select the best source file available
6. remove random background and unnecessary elements

How to assess quality before a larger order?

With a larger series, it is not worth to evaluate quality only on the basis of the product photo or technology name. The specific clothing model, material quality, file preparation and process repetition are important. If the order is either visually valid or intensively used, a sample, marking test or at least an accurate visualisation on the target product is a good solution.

It is also worth checking whether the contractor can explain the limitations of the chosen method. A reliable recommendation is not a promise that any graphics can be done identically on any material. Sometimes the best decision is to simplify the design, change the marking site or use two different techniques in one set of clothing.

How do you compare offers to compare the same?

Two offers can look similar and apply to completely different products. Before comparison check the manufacturer and model of clothing, weight or composition of material, the actual dimension of marking, the number of places, technique, the range of file preparation and whether the price includes personalization and additional work. Only such a set of data makes it possible to fairly assess the difference in price.

It is also worth asking about the possibility of subsequent homage. The cheapest model that disappears from the offer after a few months may make it difficult to maintain a coherent appearance of the team. With fixed company clothing, availability and repeatability of the product are often just as important as the price of the first order.

When is it worth a test or marking test?

The sample is particularly useful for unusual material, new clothing model, large circulation, complicated graphics or a situation where color and impression of printing are of great importance. It allows you to evaluate not only the character itself, but also its proportions, position and behavior of the entire product after the assumption.

Not every order requires a full production sample. With a simple, proven design, it is often enough to visualize and approve dimensions. The greater the financial or image risk, the more it pays to take time to check the solution first.

What is worth saving for the next home?

After successful implementation, it is worth keeping the name of the manufacturer and model of clothing, color, size, source file logo, technique, exact size and place of marking. Such specification shortens the subsequent order and reduces the risk that the new batch will look different from the previous one.

With companies, schools, clubs and organizations, a simple standard of order works well. One approved table of models and logo places makes it possible to match new people without redesigning everything from the beginning. It is especially important when orders are executed several times a year.

How do I translate this information into a real order?

It is best to prepare a short specification: type of product, number of pieces, size, date, place of marking and file. If you do not know the technique, do not guess - a description of the application and expected effect will usually suffice to compare the available possibilities.

With a larger series, it is also worth looking at the possibility of later homes. A coherent clothing model, a saved logo dimension and one accepted source file make it easier to maintain a similar effect in subsequent batches.

What should I prepare before valuation?

1. indicative number of pieces and sizes
2. information on the type of clothing or its use
3. logo or best available graphic file
4. place and approximate size of marking
5. date for which clothing is to be needed
6. information about personalization if each piece is to differ

Such a set of data does not yet mean order, but allows you to prepare a concrete and comparable proposal instead of guessing costs.