How to prepare a logo file for printing — a practical guide
A great print starts with a well-prepared file. Here are simple, practical tips on preparing a logo or design for apparel printing — so your custom shirt looks exactly the way you intended.
Which file format works best?
Two format families work best for printing. Vector formats (SVG, AI, EPS, PDF with vectors) are ideal for logos — they scale to any size without losing quality. Raster formats (PNG, JPG) suit photos and complex images.
If you go with PNG, the key is a transparent background. A JPG always has a filled background (usually white) that will be printed together with the logo — so for logos, a PNG with a transparent background is the safest choice.
Resolution: how big is big enough?
For raster files (PNG, JPG), aim for at least 150–300 dpi at print size. In practice: if the logo will be 25 cm wide on the shirt, the file should be at least around 1500–3000 pixels wide.
Stretching a low-resolution image larger will not improve quality — edges get blurry. If you only have a small file, choose a smaller print size or use a vector version instead.
Transparent background and colours
Before sending, check that there is no white rectangle left around the logo — DTF printing will print everything visible in the file, including the background. You can check transparency by opening the file in a program that shows a checkerboard pattern behind the image.
Also think about contrast: a dark logo on a dark shirt will not be visible. DTF printing is full-colour, so gradients and photos work fine; screen printing works best for designs with a few solid colours.
Text and fine details
Very thin lines and small text (below ~1.5 mm thick) can disappear or merge in print. If your logo has tiny elements, consider enlarging or simplifying them a bit.
If your file is vector, convert text to outlines so fonts do not get substituted. Not sure how? Send us the file and we will take a look.
Where to upload the file?
In the DRUKiO editor, upload your logo, place it on a t-shirt, hoodie, cap or bag and see the price instantly. T-shirts from ~10 €, hoodies from ~30 €, no minimum order — made in Riga with DTF and screen printing, worldwide shipping. Every 5th DTF item is free. Any doubts about your file? Write to info@drukio.lv and we will help you prepare it.