DTF Artwork Guidelines

Creating the right file is the key to getting vibrant, high-definition prints that press perfectly every time. Follow these artwork guidelines before uploading your DTF design to make sure your transfers print crisp, clean, and exactly as you imagine.

🖼 1. File Format

  • Accepted files: PNG (preferred) or TIFF

  • Resolution: 300 DPI (dots per inch)

  • Background: Transparent

  • Avoid JPG, PDF, or screenshot images — they can cause unwanted boxes or fuzzy edges.

🌈 2. Color Mode

Use RGB color mode, not CMYK.
DTF printers interpret RGB data more accurately for bright, bold colors and smoother gradients. What you see on screen will closely match your printed result.

📏 3. Image Size & Scaling

  • Set your artwork to the exact print size before uploading (e.g., 10" wide × 12" tall).

  • Avoid stretching or enlarging small images — it can blur edges and reduce detail.

  • For gang sheets, arrange multiple designs within your chosen sheet size (like 22″ × 48″) and keep spacing between designs (see below).

🧩 4. Bleed, Margin & Spacing

  • Leave 0.25 inch (¼″) between designs on a gang sheet.

  • Don’t place artwork too close to the sheet edge.

  • Bleeds are not required, but make sure all artwork is fully inside your layout area.

🖌 5. Text & Fine Detail

  • Convert all text to outlines before exporting.

  • Avoid tiny fonts below 10 pt — small details may not print cleanly.

  • Use solid colors or bold strokes for best clarity on press.

💡 6. How to Prepare in Canva

  1. Set canvas size to your gang sheet (e.g., 22×24 in).

  2. Use transparent background.

  3. Upload only high-resolution PNG images.

  4. Position your designs with ¼″ spacing.

  5. Download as PNG (Transparent Background, 300 DPI).

✏️ 7. How to Prepare in Adobe Illustrator

  1. Create artboard at your sheet size.

  2. Set color mode to RGB.

  3. Outline all fonts.

  4. Remove background color layers.

  5. Export as PNG (300 DPI, transparent).

🧠 8. Design Tips for Best Results

  • Avoid very thin outlines or ultra-light colors — they may fade under heat.

  • Keep dark backgrounds behind light colors for strong contrast.

  • Use vector-based artwork whenever possible for sharp lines and clean edges.

  • If you’re unsure, email your file to adam@alwaysdtf.com — our team will review it for free before printing.

⚙️ 9. Common Mistakes to Avoid

🚫 Using screenshots or blurry social-media images
🚫 Forgetting to remove white backgrounds
🚫 Uploading files smaller than actual print size
🚫 Low-DPI exports (72 DPI = pixelated result)

✅ 10. Final Checklist Before Uploading

✔ PNG format, transparent background
✔ 300 DPI resolution
✔ RGB color mode
✔ Sized correctly
✔ Fonts outlined or flattened
✔ Clean edges and spacing between designs