File Preparation & Artwork Guidelines

Getting your artwork set up correctly is the fastest way to ensure sharp prints, accurate sizing, and zero delays. Use the guidelines below for DTF Transfers, Banners, and Stickers.

Quick Checklist (Most Important)

✅ Use a transparent PNG for DTF transfers (preferred)
✅ Export at high resolution so edges stay crisp
✅ Size your artwork to the exact print size you want
✅ Keep small text readable (avoid ultra-thin fonts)
✅ Leave safe margins so nothing important gets cut off
✅ Double-check spelling before uploading

DTF Transfers — Artwork Guidelines

Best File Types

Preferred: PNG (transparent background)
Also accepted: PDF (print-ready), PSD (flattened), JPG (high quality)
Avoid: screenshots, low-res web images, blurry graphics

Transparent Background Rules

For DTF transfers, your artwork should have no background unless you want it printed.

  • Transparent background = only your design prints

  • A white box background = a white box will print

Tip: If you see a checkerboard pattern behind the artwork, it’s transparent.

Size Your Art Correctly

Your upload prints exactly as sized (unless you change it during ordering).

  • Set artwork to the final width/height you want on the garment

  • Do not rely on “stretching it later” — resizing low-quality files makes them blurry

Resolution (Quality)

For clean results, use high-resolution artwork.

  • If your design looks blurry on your screen at the size you want to print, it will print blurry.

Line Thickness + Fine Details

Very thin lines can press poorly or appear faded.

  • Use strong line weight

  • Avoid hairline strokes

  • Keep small details bold enough to hold up

Text Guidelines

  • Use clear fonts and avoid extremely thin scripts

  • Keep small text large enough to read after pressing

  • Convert text to outlines when sending PDF/vector files (prevents font changes)

Color Notes

Screens can display colors differently than printed output.

  • Neon/fluorescent colors may appear different in print

  • If you need exact brand color matching, use consistent source artwork across orders

Banner Printing — Artwork Guidelines

Best File Types

Preferred: PDF (print-ready), AI, EPS
Also accepted: high-resolution Vector file/PNG

Design Setup Tips

  • Design at the exact banner size you’re ordering

  • Keep important text/logos away from edges

  • Use large readable text — banners are meant to be read from a distance

Safe Area Recommendation

Keep key content (logos, phone numbers, QR codes) inside a safe area so nothing feels too close to the edge.

Sticker Printing — Artwork Guidelines

Best File Types

Preferred: PDF, AI, EPS, PNG (high-res)
Also accepted: high-quality JPG

Cut/Shape Tips

  • If you want a specific shape, provide a clear outline or indicate the cut shape in your design

  • Keep borders consistent and avoid ultra-thin outlines that may cut unevenly

Small Text + Fine Detail Warning

Stickers can hold detail well, but tiny text may be hard to read depending on size.

  • Increase font size for small stickers

  • Use clean, bold typefaces

What Can Cause Delays or Reprints?

To avoid issues, please do not upload:

  • Blurry or low-resolution images

  • Screenshots from phones

  • Artwork with unwanted backgrounds

  • Files with tiny unreadable text

  • Designs placed too close to the edges

  • Incorrect sizing (example: ordering 12" wide but uploading a 3" design)

Need Help Before Printing?

If you’re unsure, we can help you confirm your file is ready.

Email: shop@douglasvilleprints.com

When emailing, include:

  • Your order number (if available)

  • The product (DTF / banner / stickers)

  • The desired final size

  • Your artwork file or screenshot