Vector Files
Vector files are recommended for the highest-quality print. These are ideal for artwork with areas of solid color or text that we print using a method called spot printing. Vectors are objects, so no matter how much you enlarge the graphic it will remain crisp and clear, allowing for more flexibility. It is ideal for logos and brand graphics.
Popular File Types:
.AI, .EPS, .PDF, .SVG
Common Examples:
Logos, text, digital artwork
Tips:
- Ensure there are no raster images embedded in the file.
- Please convert all text areas to outlines.
- Refrain from expanding elements with gradients.
Raster Files
Raster files are also accepted. We can take your layered .psd, .pdf, or .tif file types and prepare them for screen print. While raster images don’t have the flawless resolution of a vector image, we can blend colors to achieve photorealism and a wide range of effects.
Popular File Types:
.PSD, .JPG, .PNG, .TIF
Common Examples:
Photos, scanned artwork
Tips:
- Supplied files should be to-size at a min. of 300 DPI.
- If possible, separate spot colors onto separate layers or channels.
- Be aware the fine details don’t always make it to the final print due to the weave of the apparel.
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ART FILES
Preferred File Types
- Screen Print
- Transfers
- DTG
- Digital Squeegee
- Sublimation
- Embroidery
Screen Print
The stencil of your graphic is printed onto a screen, and ink is then pushed through the mesh to transfer your graphic onto your garment. Each color requires a separate screen, but it produces high quality prints that will hold up for a long time.
Preferred File Type:
- Solid, spot colors prefer vector files
- Photorealistic images or blending colors prefer hi-res raster files
Tips:
- Do not live trace your image
- Providing the layered files will allow us to produce the best possible product
Transfers
Render incredible detail with crisp, clean edges in over a million vivid colors and gradients for decorating hats, outerwear, and other fabrics you cannot directly print on.
For Vector:
- CMYK strongly recommended (RGB will be converted)
- Optional: Pantone (PMS colorbook codes only)
- Convert fonts to outlines
- Convert strokes to objects
- Embed any linked images
- Save as PDF (also acceptable: .ai, .eps)
For Raster:
- CMYK strongly recommended (RGB will be converted)
- 300 DPI recommended (or send the best you have)
- Use a transparent background for free-floating art
- No fades or glows on free-floating art (Use clipping path to make sharp edges)
- Save as PDF (also acceptable: .psd, .tiff, .eps, .png, .jpg)
DTG
DTG works much like an office printer, except instead of printing on paper it prints directly onto fabric with waterbased ink. There are no limits on the amount of colors you can use, which makes it great for detailed designs.
Preferred File Type:
- Hi-res raster image
Tips
- Graphics should to be at least 300DPI for best prints.
- Art file with transparent background will get the best results.
Max Print Sizes:
- Small Short Sleeve 2.5"H×3.2"W
- Regular Short Sleeve 3.5"H×4"W
- Long Sleeve 13"H×4.2W
- Medium Size Pallet 14.5"H×11.5"W
- Standard Size Pallet 19.5"H×15"W
Digital Squeegee
Digital Squeegee is a hybrid printing method that bridges the gap between DTG and traditional Screen Printing. It uses a screen printed white underbase and a digital print on top, giving you the photorealistic quality of DTG with the speed and savings of screen printing.
Preferred File Type:
- Hi-res raster image
Tips:
- Graphics should to be at least 300DPI for best prints
- Art file with transparent background will get the best results
Sublimation
Sublimation allows you to print seam-to-seam in as many colors as your heart desires. The ink is embedded into the fibers which causes the design to feel like it’s a part of the garment (as opposed to printed on top).
Preferred File Type:
- Solid, spot colors or patterns prefer vector files
- Photorealistic images or blending colors prefer hi-res raster files
Tips
- 150DPI resolution minimum at print size.
Embroidery
Artwork has to be “digitized” which is the specialized process of converting two dimensional artwork into stitches or thread. The thread colors are loaded into the machines, and the machine itself is programmed by the operator to sew the design in a particular sequence and speed.
Preferred File Type:
- Vector image
Tips
- Convert fonts to outlines.
- Convert strokes to objects.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
WHAT KIND OF ARTWORK IS REQUIRED FOR SCREEN PRINTING?
For the best quality result, we’d recommend using vector files (.ai, .pdf, .eps, or .svg). We can also use raster images (.psd, .pdf, .tif) at 300 DPI. If you’re not sure your artwork meets these standards, just shoot us an email and we’ll let you know!
WHAT KIND OF ARTWORK IS REQUIRED FOR EMBROIDERY?
Most image types will work well for embroidery, but for the best quality we’d recommend vector files (.ai, .pdf, .eps, or .svg) or high-resolution raster images. Designing for embroidery can be tricky, however, as high-detail work doesn’t often render out on the final product. The best results use bold, large areas of stitching. We’d be happy to work with you on editing your art for optimal embroidery.
DOES CULTURE STUDIO SAVE MY ART FILES FOR REORDERS?
Absolutely! We’ll even give you garment recommendations and mockups for your future clothing line!
IS IT EASY TO REORDER?
It sure is! After creating your account, simply review your previous orders and select the “reorder” link. You can even change quantities, shipping addresses, and more.
IS THERE ANY WAY TO SET UP NET TERMS?
Contact us at billing@culturestudio.net to discuss setting up credit terms. We will need three credit referrals and some more information on your business.
CAN I GET ASSISTANCE OVER THE PHONE?
Just give us a call at 312-243-8304 and we’ll be happy to chat. We are also standing by on our site’s web messenger to help you out. Just have your reference number handy!
WHAT IF I RECEIVE MORE OR LESS THAN I ORDER?
If you receive less than the quantity you ordered, we will immediately rectify the situation with a second shipment or issue a credit to your account.
WHAT IF MY ORDER IS INCORRECT?
If something isn’t right with your order, get in touch with us and we’ll do our best to fix the situation.
WHAT IS SPOILAGE?
Spoilage is a garment that doesn’t meet our quality standards. We have an industry average 3% spoilage rate, which means if the number of garments spoiled amounts to over 3% of your order, we’ll apply a discount to your order equivalent to the cost of the loss. In the event that exact quantities are needed, one additional garment of each size or 3% over the exact quantity is required.
WHAT IF I HAVE MULTIPLE SHIPPING DESTINATIONS AND NEED TO SPLIT UP MY ORDER?
No problem! You can add shipping instructions in the notes section of your order we’ll apply a drop-ship charge to your total.
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