Ask before converting
Tell the printer the garment material, garment color, intended quantity, and artwork placement. Ask which printing process they recommend for that job and which file specifications they require. Request the final print dimensions, preferred file format, resolution at that size, and whether they need a transparent background. Avoid converting a file simply because an online checklist calls one format universal. Changing a filename extension does not change the image, and enlarging a small picture does not recreate missing detail.
Inspect the artwork itself
Look closely at letter shapes, repeated patterns, borders, and any accidental marks. Generated lettering can look plausible while spelling the phrase incorrectly. Consider whether the background belongs to the design or should be removed in a suitable editor. Keep an untouched original and a separately named production candidate. For a two-color club shirt, ask whether subtle shading would introduce extra production complexity. Do not silently replace the printer’s requested color settings with settings intended for a different workflow.
Send a decision-ready package
Provide the chosen artwork, a garment reference, agreed dimensions, and a short note listing unresolved questions. Identify which file is current; avoid several attachments all called “final.” Ask how proofs, samples, and approval work before committing to a run. A screen preview cannot guarantee the physical result. Separately check the terms and permissions for anything included, especially supplied logos, fonts, or reference artwork. Export availability alone does not establish commercial permission, and this checklist cannot make that decision for you.
Take it with you
- Get specifications from the actual printer.
- Separate original artwork from production candidates.
- Resolve proofs and permissions before an order.
T-Shirt Designer
AI clothing design
AI output may contain visual or spelling errors and is not a production guarantee. Confirm export suitability and permissions before printing or selling. Some features may require payment; check the current in-app terms.