Preferred File Types

Choosing the right file type is the first step to sharp, high-quality prints.

• Vector files (AI, PDF, EPS): Ideal for logos, flat colour artwork, and vinyl printing. These stay sharp at any size.

• High-resolution raster files (PNG, PSD, TIFF at 300dpi): Great for full-colour or photo-based designs.

Be sure to supply artwork at the final print size, and use a transparent background where needed.

Our Apparel Print Methods & Artwork Tips

Different print methods need different artwork setups. Here’s what you need to know for each:

1. Direct to Film (DTF) – Full Colour Transfers

DTF is perfect for full-colour, detailed prints on a variety of fabrics—cotton, polyester, or blends. Think vibrant merch, uniforms, or branded apparel.

Artwork Guidelines:

• Preferred file: PNG with transparent background

• Colour mode: CMYK (not RGB)

Why CMYK?

• RGB (Red, Green, Blue) is made for screens. It uses light to display colours and creates a wide, vibrant colour range—but it doesn’t always print accurately.

• CMYK (Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Key/Black) is made for printing. It uses ink to reproduce colours with better accuracy in physical prints. While its gamut is smaller than RGB, it ensures your design looks right on real garments.

Avoid ultra-fine lines or gradients thinner than 0.5pt, as they may not translate well to film and fabric.

Full Colour Heat Transfer Vinyl

While DTF is out go to solution now for full colour process decorations this method works beautifully for bold, clean and simple vector based graphics with bright colours that need to be applied to sublimated garmets and other solutions in which DTF is not quite right. 

Artwork Guidelines:

• Supply high-res vector based file.

Specialty One-Colour Vinyl (Metallics, Neons, Flocked)

Want to make a statement? These premium single-colour vinyls are great for clean, bold designs like names, slogans, and brand logos.

Popular Examples:

• Gold or Silver Metallic – Adds a premium feel for uniforms or eventwear

• Neon Pink, Green or Yellow – For standout streetwear or promotional apparel

• Black Flock – Suede-like, soft-touch vinyl ideal for fashion or bold branding

Artwork Guidelines:

• Vector artwork only (solid, single-colour)

• No gradients or small text under 5mm height

• Convert all fonts to outlines for best results

Design Placement & Sizing

Let us know:

• Where you want the design (front chest, full front, back, sleeve, etc.)

• The preferred print size in milimeters or centimetres

Not sure what works best? No problem—we’ll guide you based on the garment and your design.

Not Sure if It’s Ready?

We’re here to make life easier. If you’re not 100% sure your artwork is ready to print:

• Send it through—we’ll do one quick review it for free
• We’ll flag any tweaks needed

Please note that while we are happy to help with one quick initial check and some advice, ongoing artwork checks and or consultation is not a free service and or included in our print pricing. 

If you're not able to create the right file formats and need help creating press ready artwork we do have consultation, pre-press / lay-up through to full design services available. 

Artwork Help for Fast, Professional Apparel Printing

When your artwork is properly set up, everything runs smoother—faster production, cleaner results, and fewer surprises. Whether you're ordering from Melbourne or anywhere across Australia, we’ve got your back with expert support and same-day turnaround options.

Ready to Turn your T Shirts or Tote Into Sales Tools?

From bold branded tees to standout event merch and team gear that turns heads—we make it easy to print smarter, faster, and with pro-level results.

 Let’s bring your next big idea to life—before your inbox even catches up.

Talk to our team today or request a quote now.

Call Us Now: 1300 663 242
Email Us: helpme@samdayprinting.com.au
Visit Us: 37 EucumbeneDrive, Ravenhall (appointment recommended)

Need it today? Need it done right?

Same Day Printing. Smart Print for Brands That Care.