Artwork Guidelines: How to Prepare Files for Printing

When you're ordering custom merchandise or promotional products, sending the right artwork can make all the difference. Submitting low-resolution files or the wrong format often leads to delays, extra costs, or disappointing results. This guide covers exactly how to prepare your image files for printing—whether you're using screen printing, embroidery, or digital techniques.

File Terminology Explained

Before you prepare your files, it's important to understand a few basic terms:

  • Pixel: The smallest unit of a digital image.
  • DPI (Dots Per Inch): The resolution of printed images. Higher DPI = sharper prints.
  • PPI (Pixels Per Inch): The resolution of digital images on-screen.
  • Resolution: Density of pixels in an image. Measured in DPI (print) or PPI (digital).
  • CMYK: The colour mode used in printing (Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Key/Black).
  • Print Size: The physical size the artwork will be when printed.
  • File Size: Total space the file takes up, typically measured in MB.

General Print File Requirements

  • Use 300 DPI resolution.
  • Submit files in actual print size (e.g. 200mm wide = 200mm in the file).
  • Save in CMYK colour mode or pantones if you know them.
  • PDF format preferred; other formats (.AI, .EPS, .PSD, .PNG) accepted depending on service.
  • Vector artwork required for most printing methods.

Design checklist:

  • Convert all fonts to outlines or curves.
  • Include bleed and crop marks if needed.
  • Ensure no critical content is in the trim zone.
  • Double-check spelling and permissions for image use.

Custom Planet Artwork Guidelines by Service

Screen Printing

  • Format: Vector files (.AI, .EPS, high-res .PDF)
  • Resolution: 300 DPI minimum
  • Colours: Separate layers per colour
  • Line width: Min 0.5mm
  • Submit artwork at exact print size
  • Convert all text to outlines

Explore our screen printing services or browse products here.

Digital Printing (DTG, Vinyl, Transfers)

  • DTG: High-res .PNG with transparent background preferred
  • Transfer: Vector or high-res raster
  • Vinyl: Vector only (.AI, .EPS)
  • Avoid thin lines under 0.5mm

Not sure? Our digital printing guide explains more.

Embroidery

  • Artwork must be digitised for embroidery
  • Stitch count and line thickness matter
  • Satin stitches: min 1mm
  • Small logos: under 10,000 stitches

Learn more in our embroidery guide.

File Formatting Tips

  • Use PDF whenever possible
  • Avoid low-res .JPG unless single-colour artwork
  • Send fonts as files or outline them
  • Keep file sizes under 200MB

Need help formatting your artwork? Our team is happy to check your file for suitability before production begins.

Final Thoughts

Proper file prep helps ensure your custom printed clothing or merchandise looks exactly how you imagined. At Custom Planet, our goal is to deliver high-quality, professional results—and it all starts with good artwork.

For questions or a quote, get in touch with our team. Need more tips? Browse our other helpful guides.

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