How to prepare artwork for DTG printing

A sharp image on a phone is not automatically a print-ready file. The useful question is whether the artwork contains enough detail at the size it will appear on the garment. Start with the original design file and a measured print size, then build the handoff around those two things.

Set the dimensions before exporting

Our DTG artwork guide asks for raster artwork at 300 pixels per inch at its final print size. A design intended to print 10 inches wide therefore needs 3,000 pixels across. Changing the resolution label without adding original detail does not repair a small image. If the only file available is a screenshot, send it for review before promising a large print.

• 10 in

  Example finished width

• 300 ppi

  Artwork preparation target

• 3,000 px

  Required width for this example

Make the background a decision

Use a transparent PNG when the garment should show through around the design. Keep an intentional background if it is part of the artwork. Inspect the edges against both a light and dark backdrop before sending the file: stray pixels, leftover white boxes and rough cutouts are easier to catch there than on a checkerboard preview.

Do not remove white details that belong in the design just because the shirt is white in the mockup. Supply the production artwork separately from the mockup, and explain which areas are intended to be printed and which should remain open. If you have editable vector artwork, include it rather than replacing it with a screenshot.

Show placement with measurements

A placement image should identify the garment style, print location and finished width. Include a height when the proportions or available space matter. For a size range, state whether one print size is intended for every garment or whether you want smaller versions reviewed. A visual proof is useful for layout; it is not a physical sample of ink color or print feel.

• Attach the original artwork and a clearly named production export.
• State the finished print dimensions and location for each design.
• Identify the garment brand, style and color, plus the quantity by size.
• Include a mockup as a placement reference, separate from the print file.
• Flag small lettering, subtle gradients and any color that needs special attention during review.

Keep revisions unambiguous

Use a version number in the filename and identify the approved version in writing. If you change a garment color after proofing, ask for that change to be reviewed with the artwork. Keep the approved files and placement notes together so a reorder starts from a complete specification.