Big Water Print Co.
Artwork guidelines

Great transfers start with great files.

Follow these guidelines and your order sails through review. Not sure about a file? Upload it anyway. We check every order before it prints.

File types

Do

  • PNG with transparent background (preferred)
  • SVG or PDF with fonts outlined
  • Under 10 MB per file

Avoid

  • JPG (no transparency, compression artifacts)
  • AI, EPS, PSD: export to PDF or PNG first, or contact us
  • Screenshots or images pulled from the web

Resolution & size

Do

  • 300 DPI at the final print size
  • Artwork sized to the dimensions you order
  • Vector art whenever possible

Avoid

  • 72 DPI web graphics scaled up
  • Artwork smaller than the print size
  • Line weights thinner than 1 pt (0.35 mm)

Color

Do

  • RGB or CMYK is fine, we manage color for you
  • Solid colors for text and logos
  • Rich, saturated colors print beautifully

Avoid

  • Semi-transparent pixels or soft drop shadows
  • Gradients fading to transparent (they'll fade to white)
  • Expecting exact Pantone matches without a proof

Gang sheet layout

Do

  • At least 0.25″ between designs
  • Keep designs 0.25″ from the sheet edge
  • Group similar sizes together for easier cutting

Avoid

  • Overlapping designs
  • Stray pixels or dust floating in the file
  • Rotating designs off-axis without reason
White ink

A note on white and transparency.

DTF prints a white underbase behind your art so it pops on any color garment. Anything in your file that isn't fully transparent will print, including faint anti-aliased edges and “invisible” white boxes. Check your file on a dark background before uploading.

Looks fine on white
Hidden box prints on dark

Files ready?

Create an account and upload. We'll review everything before it prints and reach out if anything needs attention.