File Prep – Recommended Formats by Product Type

---

 Best Methods: DTF, Embroidery

File Format & Setup:

• DTF: Transparent‑background PNG at print size, 300 DPI. Avoid hairline details thinner than 0.5 pt; they may flake after washes.
• Embroidery: Vector (AI, SVG, EPS, PDF) preferred. If raster, high‑res (≥ 300 DPI) PNG/JPG on neutral background. Simplify tiny details; minimum text height ≈ 0.25 in. Up to 12 thread colors. Digitizing fee applies first run per size.

 Methods: Embroidery, Laser Engraving (Leatherette), Sublimation (Fabric Patches)

File Format & Setup:

• Embroidery: Vector artwork (AI/SVG/EPS) or hi‑res PNG. Keep fine lines ≥ 1 pt. Avoid gradient fills—they don’t translate to thread.
• Laser Engraving: Black‑and‑white vector preferred. Anything black engraves; white doesn’t. Raster accepted if crisp at 300 DPI.

 Printing Method: UV print on adhesive vinyl

File Format & Setup:

• Transparent or white‑background PNG at 300 DPI.
• Include 1/8" bleed past the cut line; mark contour with 1 pt magenta stroke named CutContour if vector.
• Vector files (AI, PDF, SVG) accepted. Avoid pixelated edges.

 Printing Method: Inkjet on sealed canvas or banner vinyl

File Format & Setup:

• PDF, PNG, or TIFF, 150 DPI at print size (higher not needed for large formats).
• Add 1" bleed for grommets; keep text 2" inside finished edge.
• Use CMYK color profile for most predictable results.

 Printing Method: Sublimation or Laser Marking

File Format & Setup:

• Sublimation Metal: RGB PNG/TIFF, 300 DPI, full bleed to panel size. White areas = metal coating color.

Laser Marking : Black‑and‑white vector artwork; no grayscale. Raster must be pure black/white, 300 DPI minimum. 

 File Format & Setup:

• Black‑and‑white vector (AI, SVG, PDF) ideal. Black = engraved, white = untouched.
• For raster, 300 DPI min; high contrast only (no grayscale).

For acrylic cutting, supply vector path layer labeled CutLine in magenta. 

  File Format & Setup:

• Transparent‑background PNG, 300 DPI at print size. Keep solid, high‑contrast art.
• Vector artwork (AI, SVG, PDF) ideal for logos and text.
• Avoid metallic or neon colors—they won’t reproduce accurately.

Printing Method: Inkjet or Sublimation (metal/canvas)

File Format & Setup:

• JPG, TIFF, or PDF at 150–300 DPI (depending on viewing distance).
• RGB color for metal/canvas; CMYK for banners/posters.
• Include 1/4" bleed on all sides.

• Embed or outline all fonts.
• Convert text to curves/outlines.
• Flatten transparency before sending.
• Keep file names descriptive (e.g., ClientName_Item_Color_Size_Method.pdf).
• For multiple designs, separate files per artwork.

Need help? If you’re unsure which format to send, upload what you have—we’ll review and let you know before printing.