What File Do I Need to Print My Design on a Shirt?
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The short version: a transparent PNG, at least 2000 × 2000 pixels. That's the file that prints cleanest on a shirt. Here's why, and how to get one.
PNG, not JPG
A JPG always has a background, usually a white box. Print it on a colored shirt and you get the white box too. A PNG can have a transparent background, so only your design ends up on the shirt.
Why 2000 × 2000 pixels
A full-front print is about 12 inches wide. A small image stretched to that size turns soft and blocky. Starting at 2000 pixels or more gives the printer enough detail to keep edges sharp.
Quick check: open the file and look at its dimensions. If it's something like 600 × 600, it's too small for a full-front print.
Files that usually print blurry
- Screenshots of a design
- Images saved from a social media post
- Logos copied off a website
- Photos that were texted and compressed along the way
If that's all you have, ask whoever made the design for the original file. For a business logo, whoever built your website or signs usually has it.
How to get a transparent background
- Canva: download as PNG and check "transparent background" (a Canva Pro feature).
- Photoshop or Procreate: hide or delete the background layer, then export as PNG.
- Background remover tools: fine for photos; check the edges before you print.
Photos
Photos don't need a transparent background, but they do need resolution. Use the original from your phone's camera roll, not a copy that's been texted or posted.
Artwork you can print
Print your own designs, your business logo, your team's artwork and your own photos. We can't print licensed characters, sports league logos, band merch or other brands' designs.
Ready to print?
Upload your file on our Design Your Own Tee page and see it on the shirt before you buy. In Idaho Falls and need it today? Order before 1 PM and pick it up by 5 PM — see same-day custom t-shirts.