DTF Artwork Guidelines

To guarantee the best printing results, please follow these artwork preparation guidelines before uploading your design.
Our goal is to make sure your BTB DTF transfers print crisp, vibrant, and press perfectly — every time.

🎨 Accepted File Format

  • PNG format only (with transparent background)

  • Avoid JPEG, PDF, or screenshot files — they usually contain white or colored backgrounds that will print unintentionally.

  • If you’re exporting from software like Adobe Illustrator or Photoshop, save your final design as PNG (300 DPI) with transparency enabled.

🧩 Resolution & Quality

  • All designs must be 300 DPI (dots per inch) for clear, professional results.

  • Low-resolution or pixelated files will print blurry or fuzzy.

  • Avoid screenshots, web images, or compressed files — they are not print-quality.

✅ Tip: Zoom in 200–300% on your image. If it looks sharp on-screen, it’ll print sharp too.

🌈 Color Mode

  • Use RGB color mode for the most vibrant results.

  • CMYK files may appear slightly dull or inaccurate once printed.

  • Colors on your screen may vary slightly from print due to different monitor calibrations, but we always print for maximum vibrancy and accuracy.

🪄 Backgrounds

  • All artwork must have a transparent background.

  • If you leave a white or colored background, it will print on the film and appear on your garment.

  • If your file contains text or detailed edges, double-check that no unwanted pixels remain around the design.

✂️ Design Setup Tips

  • Merge or flatten all layers before saving your file.

  • Outline all text to prevent font substitution.

  • Remove hidden layers or guides that you don’t want printed.

  • Ensure your design is sized exactly how you want it to print — we print it at the exact dimensions provided.

  • Keep at least 0.25” spacing between multiple designs if uploading a gang sheet, to make cutting easier.

⚙️ Transparency & Effects

  • Avoid using opacity or semi-transparent gradients — they may not print as expected.

  • If you need faded or distressed effects, convert them to solid color textures before saving.

  • Drop shadows and glows should be rasterized and checked on a dark background to ensure clean edges.

💡 Best Practices for Vibrant Prints

✅ Use bold, saturated colors for maximum pop.
✅ Avoid fine details smaller than 1 pt line thickness — they may not transfer cleanly.
✅ Convert metallic or neon effects into printable colors (actual neon inks are not used).
✅ Always proof your design on-screen before uploading.

📤 Before You Upload

✔ File Format: PNG (Transparent)
✔ Resolution: 300 DPI
✔ Color Mode: RGB
✔ Background: None
✔ Text: Outlined
✔ Layers: Flattened
✔ Size: Actual Print Dimensions

Once your file meets these standards, upload it with confidence — our team will take care of the rest!

💬 Need Help?

If you’re unsure about your artwork setup, email us at printplugnyc@gmail.com with your design attached.
Our team can review your file and ensure it’s print-ready before production begins.