Artwork Requirements for Screen Printing, Embroidery & DTF
Short answer: send a vector file (.ai, .eps, .pdf or .svg) if you have one, otherwise the largest PNG you have, ideally 300 DPI at print size with a transparent background. We clean up basic artwork free, send a proof before production, and quote any full redraw before we start.
File types we accept
| File | Use it for | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| .ai, .eps, .pdf, .svg (vector) | Every method | Best for screen printing and laser. Convert fonts to outlines before sending. |
| .png | DTF, embroidery, screen print after cleanup | 300 DPI at print size; transparent background preferred |
| .jpg | Reference, DTF if large enough | No transparency; white boxes must be removed |
| .dst, .emb, .pes (stitch files) | Embroidery | We can run an existing stitch file; we check it on a test sew-out first |
A logo pulled from a website or a phone photo is usually too small. Send it anyway with a note, and we will tell you whether it needs a redraw by our design team. AI-generated artwork is welcome; see AI artwork tips.
Typical decoration sizes
| Placement | Typical width |
|---|---|
| Left chest (print or embroidery) | 3 to 4 in |
| Full front, adult tee or hoodie | 10 to 12 in |
| Full back | 11 to 13 in |
| Sleeve | 2.5 to 3.5 in |
| Hat front (structured cap) | 2 to 2.25 in tall, up to about 4.5 in wide |
| Leather patch on a hat | About 2.5 to 3.25 in wide |
Youth sizes, small garments and oversized prints are sized on the proof. Tell us if a print must be an exact size.
Rules by decoration method
- Screen printing: solid colors, up to 8 per design on our M&R press. Each color is a $20 screen. Gradients and photos need halftones or work better as DTF.
- Embroidery: lettering at least about 0.25 in tall, no hairline details, up to 15 thread colors. We hand-digitize your art (from $16.99, one time).
- DTF: full color and gradients are fine. Very thin isolated lines can lift, so keep strokes at least about 1 pt.
- Laser engraving: one-color vector or high-contrast black-and-white art. Engraving shows as a single tone of the material.
Pantone and brand colors
Give us Pantone (PMS) numbers if you have them and we mix ink to match. Ink reads differently on different fabric colors, and thread comes in fixed palettes, so a match is close rather than exact. Screen colors never match printed ink perfectly. Details are in our Custom Order Terms.
Proofs
Every order gets a digital proof showing size, placement and colors. Check spelling, numbers and dates carefully: production follows the proof you approve. Placement can vary by about half an inch, which is normal for decorated apparel.
Artwork questions
What file format do you need for screen printing?
A vector file (.ai, .eps, .pdf or .svg) with fonts converted to outlines is best. A 300 DPI PNG at print size also works after cleanup.
Do you charge for artwork?
Basic cleanup is free. Embroidery digitizing starts at $16.99 one time. A full redraw is quoted as design work before we start, never after.
Can you match my brand's Pantone colors?
Yes, we mix ink to your PMS numbers. Matches are close rather than exact because fabric color and thread palettes affect the result.
Ready? Request a quote and attach your file, or email it to sales@battlebornclothing.com.
Request a free quote
Tell us the quantity, decoration and deadline. We reply with firm pricing, usually within one business day.
Or call 775-230-0211 or email sales@battlebornclothing.com.