Before you start printing your custom T-shirts, there’s one critical step that can make or break the final result:
Preparing your artwork correctly for screen printing.
Whether you’re designing your first shirt or working with a supplier like Guoya Company, properly formatted artwork ensures:
- Clean, sharp prints
- Accurate color separation
- Faster production with fewer revisions
Here’s a beginner-friendly guide to preparing your T-shirt artwork the right way.
1. Use Vector Files Whenever Possible
The best artwork format for screen printing is vector (like .AI, .EPS, or .SVG).
Why?
- Vector files can be resized without losing quality
- They allow for clean linework and easy color separation
- Printers can easily adjust or scale your design as needed
If you only have raster artwork (like a .JPG or .PNG), make sure it’s high resolution (300 DPI or higher). But keep in mind: vector is always better for screen printing.
2. Set the Right Dimensions and Resolution
Your design should match the actual print size you want on the shirt.
General guidelines:
- Standard chest design: 10–12 inches wide
- Full front print: 12–14 inches wide
- Left chest logo: 3–4 inches wide
Also, make sure your artwork resolution is at least 300 DPI (dots per inch). Lower resolutions can cause blurry or pixelated prints.
3. Convert Fonts to Outlines
If your design includes text, convert all fonts to outlines (curves) before sending the file.
Why this matters:
- Prevents missing font issues on the printer’s computer
- Ensures the layout remains exactly as you intended
If you’re unsure how to do this, our team at Guoya can help convert your file and check for font issues.
4. Use the CMYK or Spot Color Mode
For screen printing, it’s best to work in:
- CMYK color mode (for full-color designs), or
- Spot colors (for specific, separated inks like red, white, etc.)
Avoid using RGB, as colors may shift during conversion and cause unwanted surprises in the final print.
At Guoya, we can provide color separation assistance and offer Pantone matching if needed.
5. Keep Your Colors Limited for Cost Efficiency
Each color in your design requires a separate screen—so the more colors, the higher the cost.
Tips:
- Keep designs within 1–4 solid colors if possible
- Use bold contrasts for better visibility on fabric
- Ask your supplier about underbase printing for dark T-shirts
If you’re unsure which colors to keep, Guoya’s free design support can help simplify your artwork for print.
6. Include Clear Mockups for Placement
Your artwork file should come with a mockup showing:
- T-shirt color
- Design placement (chest, back, sleeve)
- Print size in inches or centimeters
This ensures your printer understands the intended layout—especially when printing in bulk.
We offer free mockup templates at Guoya, or we can create one for you based on your artwork.
7. File Formats We Recommend
Here’s a quick list of preferred file types for screen printing:
| File Format | Use Case |
|---|---|
.AI | Adobe Illustrator (best) |
.EPS | Vector, scalable, universal |
.SVG | Good for web and scalable design |
.PDF | Only if vector-based |
.PSD | OK if layered, 300 DPI |
.PNG | Acceptable for preview, not ideal for printing |
Avoid using .JPG, .GIF, or screenshots from mobile apps.
Why Choose Guoya for Design and Printing?
At Guoya Company, we help you go from idea to final product—without the stress.
Here’s how we support your design process:
- 🎨 Free design review & file setup assistance
- 🖨️ Professional screen separation & ink advice
- 🎁 Free samples before bulk production
- ⏱️ 3-day proofing, 5-day delivery
- 👕 Printed on 100% cotton T-shirts (180–300gsm), 26 colors, S–6XL
Whether you have a finished file or a sketch on paper—we’ll help you turn it into a beautiful printed T-shirt.
Summary
Preparing your artwork properly is the key to a successful screen printed T-shirt.
Use vector files, set correct dimensions, limit colors, and always provide clear mockups.
If you need help, Guoya Company is here with free design support and professional guidance to make the process easy.
📩 Contact us to get started or request a free artwork review.