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🎨 Artwork Guidelines for
Full Color Printing (DTF)

To make sure your designs look amazing on apparel, please follow these guidelines when submitting files for full color printing (also known as DTF, or Direct-to-Film). These tips help us produce crisp, vibrant prints that apply cleanly and last long.

✅ File Setup

Preferred File Types:

  • PNG with a transparent background (best for photos or graphic designs)

  • AI, EPS, SVG, or CDR for logos or vector-based artwork

  • Canva project links — we can sometimes work from these, but we can’t guarantee results until we take a look

  • PDFs are not recommended and typically not accepted unless we’ve approved the file in advance

Resolution:

  • All artwork should be at 300 DPI (dots per inch) or higher to ensure print clarity

Background:

  • Designs must have a transparent background — no white boxes or background colors unless it’s part of the artwork

Color Mode:

  • Please submit in RGB color mode for the most vibrant prints

  • Avoid faded or semi-transparent areas — they may cause unwanted white underbase printing

🖌 Design Tips

Size Matters:

  • Create your artwork at the actual size you want it printed

  • Resizing later can reduce print quality

Text & Fonts:

  • Make sure your text is clear and easy to read

  • Bold fonts or outlines help text stand out, especially on dark garments

Fine Details:

  • Avoid very small elements under 2mm — they may not transfer cleanly

  • Connect floating parts of the design when possible (like tiny dots or loose accents)

Edges & Opacity:

  • Keep all design edges sharp and defined

  • Avoid soft fades, glows, or feathered edges — these can cause issues during printing

  • Ensure all parts of your artwork are at 100% opacity

💡 Design Software Notes

  • We recommend using CorelDRAW, Adobe Illustrator, or other vector-based programs for best results

  • If you're using Photoshop or similar raster-based tools, make sure resolution is set to 300 DPI

  • If you’re using Canva, please share a project link (not a download) — we’ll review to see if it meets print standards

🚫 What to Avoid

  • Low-resolution files, screenshots, or internet images

  • Backgrounds you don’t want printed

  • PDF files (unless approved in advance)

  • Designs with transparent effects, glows, or blurred edges

If you’re unsure whether your artwork is ready, just send it over — we’re happy to take a look and guide you from there!
Artwork@distinktivemerchco.com

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