ARTWORK GUIDELINES

DTF Artwork Guidelines

Artwork Requirements

PNG (Recommended)

Transparent background required. Minimum 300 DPI at final print size.

PSD

Layered files accepted with transparency preserved.

AI / EPS

All text must be converted to outlines or fonts supplied.

PDF

High resolution export with fonts outlined.

Resolution

Minimum 300 DPI at final size. 600 DPI preferred for fine details.

Transparency

Transparent background required. No white backgrounds allowed.

Text

Convert all text to outlines. Minimum 0.25" height recommended.

Design Size

Create at 100% final print size. Max 22" width on 24" film.

How to Prepare Your Files

Adobe Illustrator
  1. Create document at 100% final print size (inches)
  2. Set raster effects to 300 DPI in Document Settings
  3. Convert all text to outlines (Type → Create Outlines)
  4. Embed or link images at sufficient resolution
  5. Export As → PNG (transparent background) or PDF
Adobe Photoshop
  1. New file: width/height in inches, Resolution 300+ PPI
  2. Delete or hide the Background layer for transparency
  3. Use masks, Select Subject, or Remove Background for clean edges
  4. Rasterize text layers or convert to shapes at high quality
  5. Export As → PNG with transparency enabled
Canva (Free Web-Based)
  1. Create design → Custom size using exact final print dimensions in inches
  2. File → Settings → set Quality to High or 300 DPI print mode
  3. Use transparent elements or Canva's Background Remover on photos
  4. Text: Choose bold, heavy fonts sized so final print height is at least 0.25". Canva rasterizes text on export
  5. Download → PNG → enable Transparent background
  6. Pro tip: For best DTF results on detailed work, open the PNG in Photopea or Photoshop to verify clean transparency
Free & Popular Alternatives
Photopea (Free Browser)
  1. Visit photopea.com — no install or account needed
  2. New file at exact print size, 300 DPI resolution
  3. Delete background layer; use masks or AI Remove Background
  4. Export As → PNG with transparency preserved
Affinity (Now Free)
  1. Download free Affinity Designer + Photo (major 2026 update)
  2. New document at 100% size, 300 DPI (RGB or CMYK)
  3. Convert text to curves (Layer → Convert to Curves)
  4. Export high-quality PNG with transparency or PDF/X
Kittl (Apparel-Focused)
  1. Browser tool built for merch, streetwear & print-on-demand
  2. Use custom size templates or set high-resolution export
  3. Leverage vector tools + AI features for effects
  4. Export at 300 DPI+ with transparent background

No matter which tool you use, the fundamentals are the same: design at actual size, minimum 300 DPI, transparent backgrounds, and outlined or high-quality rasterized text for crisp DTF prints.

⚠ What to Avoid ⚠

Low Resolution

Images below 300 DPI at final size will look pixelated.

White Backgrounds

These will print as white ink. Always use transparent PNGs.

Live Text

Convert all text to outlines before exporting.

Overly Fine Details

Very thin lines and small text often don't hold on dark garments.

Still unsure about your files?

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