Image cutlines for T-shirts and apparel

What is a Contour Cut-line?

A contour cut-line is a digital marking in a vector-based image, created in programs like Adobe Illustrator. It guides a die-less digital cutting machine on where to make precise cuts. Known as a "digital die-cut," the cut contour line aligns with the artwork's canvas boundaries. For custom shapes, an outline is created to depict the cutting path, given a 0.25pt stroke, set to 100% magenta, and placed on a "Cut Contour" layer.

Two quick tips to keep in mind when deciding on your artwork and cut-style:

Types of Cutlines for Digital T-Shirt Printing

1. Rectangle Cutline

A Rectangle Cutline is ideal for photos or raster images like .jpg or .psd files. It provides a cost-effective finish with either square or rounded corners. Your image or logo is printed on a white or colored background, applied professionally to T-shirts, polo shirts, hoodies, or other apparel.

2. Ellipse Cutline

The Ellipse Cutline offers a rounded finish, perfect for photos or raster images that suit a curved shape. Like the rectangle cutline, it provides a professional full-colour finish on your chosen apparel.

3. Bubble Contour Cutline

The Bubble Contour Cutline creates a clean finish for vector logos or images without needing to edit files for bleed. Available as an external cutline that follows the artwork's outer edge or with internal areas removed, it's ideal for small fonts and detailed patterns. Note: the minimum gap width for removable areas is 1mm.

4. Flush Contour Cutline for Digital T-shirt Printing.

The Flush Contour Cutline provides a premium finish. Your artwork is edited to add a bleed to each individual element of the design (see image 1 below). Once complete your file is printed and cut to the very edge of the print, and looks like a seamless element of the shirt (See image 2 below – shown after cut).

Flush contour cutlines are most suited to artwork with smooth outlines, as this allows the excess print to be removed (weeded) relatively fast, keeping costs in check. This being said, we love a challenge, and our team have output some phenomenally intricate designs – so if your project needs detail, and you have budget available, show us what you need and we will let you know how we can help.

Specialty Stocks and Background Colors

Your artwork is printed on white media as standard. If you want a different background colour, include it in your art. We also offer specialty stocks, including metallic, fluro, puff, crystal, and more.

Custom Cutline Services

If you don't have vector artwork but want a Bubble Contour or Flush Contour finish, we can help. Send your artwork to our creative team at designteam@samedayprinting.com.au for a quote on creating the cutline for you.

Understanding the different types of image cutlines for T-shirts can significantly enhance your custom printing projects. Whether you choose a Rectangle, Ellipse, Bubble Contour, or Flush Contour Cutline, each offers unique benefits to make your design stand out. At Same Day Printing, we're here to help you achieve your desired results with professional quality and precision. If you have any questions or need custom solutions, don't hesitate to contact us at helpme@samedayprinting.com.au.