How to set up files for DTF printing & gang sheets

1. File format

PNG with a transparent background is the best format. PDF, AI, EPS and SVG (vector) also work great. PSD and TIFF are fine if the background layer is hidden. We avoid JPG because it can’t be transparent: a JPG prints a white or colored box around your design.

2. Resolution: 300 DPI at real size

A 12" wide design needs to be 3,600 pixels wide (12 × 300). Upscaling a small image from the web won’t add detail, it just makes it blurry. If your art is low resolution, tell us and we can vectorize simple logos.

3. Transparency and semi-transparency

Anything that’s not 100% transparent will print, with a layer of white ink under it. Soft shadows, glows and faded edges can print as a hazy box. Where you can, use solid edges or halftones instead of partial transparency.

4. Sheet layout (12" × 12")

• Canvas 12" × 12" at 300 DPI (3,600 × 3,600 px)
• Biggest single design: 11.5" × 11.5"
• Leave at least ¼" (75 px) between designs so you can cut them apart
• Keep designs ¼" from the edges of the sheet
• Rotate designs to fill space, since orientation doesn’t matter on film
• Put small designs (sleeves, labels, left chest) in the gaps between big ones

5. Fine details

• Lines at least 1 pt (0.35 mm) thick
• Text at least 6 pt, and 8 pt+ for thin script fonts
• Avoid tiny islands of color smaller than 1 mm, because they can peel

6. Colors

Design in RGB. We print in CMYK + white with a color-managed workflow. Neon and some very saturated blues and greens can shift slightly. If an exact brand color matters, ask for a test print.

Common problems we catch

• A white background left on a “transparent” PNG
• A design at 4" that the customer wanted at 11"
• 72 DPI images pulled from a website or Instagram
• Semi-transparent shadows that print as a gray box

If we see one of these, we contact you before printing. Upload your files.