Why Proper File Is So Important

Getting your file right before sending it in is the most important step for achieving clean, vibrant, professional results.

poorly prepped files can lead to:

• Blurry or pixelated edges
• Dull, inaccurate colors
• White or grey boxes around your design
• Wasted film space or poor placement

Proper file setup ensures your transfer presses perfectly, with sharp detail and true color. It also helps production move through production faster.

Accepted File Types

For best quality, please submit your files in one of the following formats:

PNG

• Must have a transparent background unless it's apart of the design

Vector Files

• ideal for logos, line art, or solid color graphics
• Can be scaled without losing quality

Avoid screenshots or photos of your designs as they will print blurry.

Design Dimensions & resolution

Resolution

Your artwork should be 300 DPI (dots per inch)

This ensures sharp lines and clean detail, especially for small text or fine graphics.

Actual Print Size

Create your file at the exact size your want it printed.

If you want your design to print 10" wide, your artboard/canvas should be 10 inches wide at 300 DPI before exporting.

Background Removal

Your file should have no solid background unless it's part of your design.

Files with white or black boxes with print as is and the background will show.

How to check for transparency

Open your file and look for the checkerboard pattern. if you see white you likely need to remove it.

Methods:

• Use Photoshop/Canva/Photopea background remover
• For logos or single color artwork I highly recommend use vector tracing. it gives sharper edges and smoother outlines.

Color Setup & Printing Accuracy

Use CMYK color Mode

DTF printers print using CMYK + White inks.

Setting your file to CMYK before exporting helps you get a more accurate color preview of how your design will print.

RGB colors are designed for screen, they can appear brighter or more neon, but may look different when printed.

To change in Photoshop or Canva:

• Photoshop: image > Mode > CMYK Color
• Canva: When downloading, choose CMYK PDF

Margins & Spacing

Add a buffer around your design

Keep at least 0.25" of spacing around your artwork edges so it doesn't cut off or run off your gang sheet

Gang Sheet Layout Tips

If your uploading multiple designs on a gang sheet:

• Group small designs together or rotate to maximize your space
• Avoid designs touching each other or they'll fuse when pressed

Use consistent spacing and alignment, this makes trimming and pressing faster.

Fonts & Text Guidelines

• Avoid fonts smaller than 10pt for the best readability when printed.
• If using script fonts, make sure strokes aren't too thin or they may not press cleanly.

Saving & Export Settings

For PNG files:

• File type: PNG
• Background: Transparent
• Resolution: 300 DPI
• Color Mode: CMYK

For Vector Files:

• Bitmap export > PNG > Save

File Naming Tip:

Keep files names short and clear, like:

"fontlogo10inch"

"hoodiedesignlarge"

Uploading Your File

1. Go to build a gang sheet or open the program you are building the gang sheet
2. Upload your designs
3. Position and arrange your designs
4. Double check:

• No parts are cut off
• proper spacing between designs
• Sizing matches what you expect.

Tip: Zoom in to inspect small text or fine lines in the builder. What you see there is what will print.

Pre Upload Checklist

Before submitting make sure:

• File format is PNG with a transparent background.
• Resolution is 300 DPI.
• Artwork is set at final print size.
• Color mode is CMYK.
• Clean spacing between designs on gang sheet.

Need Help?

If you're not sure if your file is ready, I can quickly check it for you. Email your design to heathappytransfers@gmail.com and I will get back to you within 24 hours.