Image cutlines for T-shirts and apparel
When customising T-shirt and apparel prints, understanding the different types of image cutlines is essential. At Same Day Printing, we offer various standard finishes to meet your design and cost requirements. If you need a custom finish, we're here to help you achieve your desired results. This guide covers the types of image cutlines available and how they can enhance your custom T-shirt printing projects.
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.
What is a cut contour line?
A cut contour line is a digital marking in a vector image that indicates where a cutting machine should make precise cuts. It's not intended for printing but serves as a cutting guide.
What are the types of image cutlines for T-shirts?
The types include Rectangle Cutline, Ellipse Cutline, Bubble Contour Cutline, and Flush Contour Cutline, each offering different finishes based on your design and requirements.
Can I get a custom cutline for my T-shirt print?
Yes, we offer custom cutline services. Send your artwork to designteam@samedayprinting.com.au, and our team will provide a quote for creating the custom cutline.
What is the standard media for printing artwork?
The standard media is white, but we offer specialty stocks like metallic, fluro, puff, crystal, and more. If you need a different background colour, include it in your artwork.
How do I extend the background color to the bleed line?
Ensure that all background colors and images extend to the red bleed line to prevent any white borders from appearing after trimming.
Can I use raster images for custom T-shirt printing?
Yes, raster images like .jpg or .psd files can be used, especially with Rectangle or Ellipse Cutlines for a cost-effective finish.
Explore More Insights
Dive deeper into industry trends and creative inspiration with our selection of relevant blog articles, handpicked to keep you informed and inspired.

Same Day Printing Cardstocks
Stocks for Every Occasion. The best thing about customizing boxes and packaging ...

Make an Unforgettable Impression with Metallic Ink
Make an Unforgettable Impression with Metallic InkIn a world where attention is ...

Businesses we’ve helped
Businesses we’ve helpedAt Same Day Printing, we take pride in being a ...

Express Coaster Calendar
Coaster Calendar PrintingWhat's great about Coaster Calendars? Only everything! They are literally ...