Custom apparel artwork guide
Artwork file checklist for screen printing, DTF and embroidery
You do not need a perfect file to ask for a quote. You do need to show what should appear on the garment, where it goes, and how large it should be. This guide helps DMV teams prepare those details before proof review.
Send your artwork for a quoteWhat to send first
Attach your best logo or design file, the garment style and color, the desired placement, the approximate finished width, and your quantity. Include the delivery ZIP and date if the order is for an event. Boring Tees can review the art and tell you whether it needs adjustment before production.
Choose the best file you have
Vector files such as AI, EPS or a vector PDF can be enlarged without losing sharp edges. They are especially helpful for logos, lettering and screen-print color separation. Convert fonts to outlines when possible, or tell us which font the design uses.
Raster files such as PNG and JPG are made of pixels. A file that looks sharp on a phone may still be too small for a full-size shirt print. Send the original export rather than a screenshot. As a starting point, use a 300 DPI file at the intended print size; we will assess whether it is suitable for the actual method and garment.
Do not have either? Send the best version available and explain what must stay the same. A screenshot or a logo copied from a website may be enough to discuss the project, but it may need to be rebuilt before production. We will flag that before you approve a proof.
File notes by decoration method
Screen printing
File: Vector AI, EPS or PDF is preferred. A high-resolution PNG or JPG may work when the design is simple.
Check: Identify each ink color, the garment color and every print location.
DTF printing
File: A high-resolution PNG or JPG at the intended print size works well. Vector AI, EPS or PDF is also useful.
Check: Show the desired finished size and flag any transparent background or fine detail.
Embroidery
File: Vector AI, EPS or PDF gives a clean starting point; send the best logo you have if those are unavailable.
Check: Show the garment and placement. Tiny text and intricate lines may need to be simplified for stitching.
Five details to settle before approving a proof
- Logo version: confirm that the approved mark, year, spelling and sponsor names are correct.
- Garment color: check that the art is readable on the actual shirt, hoodie, polo or hat color.
- Placement:specify left chest, full front, back or sleeve rather than saying only “on the shirt.”
- Size: give a target width or ask us to recommend one for the selected garment; inspect the proof at that scale.
- Color rules: include any Pantone values or brand guide and flag colors that cannot be changed.
Common artwork problems that delay orders
Only a screenshot is available. It often contains compression and an unknown logo source. Look for the original design file or ask whoever manages the brand assets.
Several people approve the design. Send one consolidated set of edits and name the person who can give final approval. This is especially useful for schools, nonprofits and organizations with brand guidelines.
The same design is expected to work at every size. A detailed back print, a small left-chest logo and embroidery on a cap have different limits. Ask for a method or layout recommendation before locking the artwork.
The delivery date is missing. Artwork review is only one part of the schedule. If the apparel is for an event in DC, Maryland or Northern Virginia, include the date and delivery ZIP when you ask for a quote.
Next step for a DMV order
Use the DMV event shirt ordering guide to plan quantity, approval and shipping. Boring Tees is based in the College Park, Maryland area, has a 24-piece minimum and sends customer orders by UPS or USPS. There is no customer pickup or staff drop-off.
For examples of finished work, visit the portfolio.