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How to Prepare Logos and Artwork for Custom Merch

How to Prepare Logos and Artwork for Custom Merch

in The Promo Code

Creating custom merch is exciting, whether it’s t-shirts for your team, mugs for your business, or stickers to share your art. But before your design can come to life, the most important step is preparing a good-quality image or logo. Submitting the right kind of artwork makes the difference between crisp, professional-looking merch and something that feels blurry, off-color, or poorly sized.

Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of what makes a good file to submit (PDF version available for download for easy reference).

Step 1: Start with High Resolution

Printers need detail to work with. Aim for files that are 300 DPI (dots per inch) or higher. This ensures your design looks sharp on fabric, paper, and other surfaces.

Low-res images (like screenshots or photos saved from social media) often appear pixelated when enlarged.

Think of resolution as the foundation. Without it, even the best design won’t print well.

Step 2: Keep the Design Clear & Simple

Small details and thin lines can get lost when printed, especially on textured surfaces like fabric. A strong merch design is bold, recognizable, and easy to read at a glance.

  • Test by shrinking your design down to the size of a business card—can you still recognize it?
  • Use a limited color palette to make it pop.
  • Avoid overly busy backgrounds that compete with the main image.

Simplicity not only makes your design look better, it also keeps printing costs lower.

Step 3: Go With a Vector File

Submit a vector file for the best results.

  • (.Ai, .EPS, .SVP, or .PDF)

Vector files can be scaled to any size and still maintain the best quality!

Step 4: Choose Colors Wisely

Colors look different on screens than they do in print. To avoid surprises:

  • Design in CMYK color mode, which matches how printers mix inks.
  • If your brand uses specific colors, share the Pantone or HEX codes with the printer for accuracy.
  • Consider contrast: make sure your design works on both light and dark backgrounds (you may need two variations).

Always check the proof before placing a large order.

Step 5: Make Sure You Own the Artwork

Printers can only use designs you have the rights to. That means:

  • Don’t use copyrighted images (like characters, logos, or stock art without a license).
  • If you hired a designer, double-check you have permission to use the files for merchandise.

Original artwork ensures you avoid legal issues and makes your merch truly unique.

Step 6: Preview with Mockups

Before sending your design off for printing, create mockups to see how it will look on actual items.

  • Many online tools let you place your design on shirts, mugs, or tote bags digitally.
  • Adjust placement, sizing, and color until you’re happy with the look.

A mockup helps you catch mistakes before committing to production We're here to help you with this step to make sure you achieve the results you're looking for.

Final Checklist Before Submitting Your Design

  • 300 DPI or vector format
  • Simple, bold, and clear design
  • Go with a vector file
  • Colors set in CMYK, with Pantone/HEX codes if available
  • Original artwork (with full rights to use)
  • Mockup reviewed and approved

Submitting the right kind of image or logo sets your merch project up for success. By following these steps, you’ll ensure your design looks professional, prints cleanly, and represents your brand or idea the way you imagined.

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Tags: Branding Tips
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