DTF Order File Tips

DTF Order File Tips – Get the Best Print Quality

At Perfect DTF Transfers, our goal is to make your designs look exactly the way you imagined — or even better. Whether you’re ordering for your clothing brand, event merchandise, or a one-off project, proper file preparation is the key to getting sharp, vibrant, and long-lasting DTF prints.

These DTF Order File Tips will help you submit artwork that’s ready for uploading or building with our Gang Sheet Builder Software — saving you time, avoiding delays, and ensuring flawless results.

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1. Use High-Resolution Artwork

Minimum 300 DPI (dots per inch) for the clearest prints.

Avoid low-resolution images from the web (72 DPI) as they will appear blurry.

Check your design at full size to ensure edges are crisp.

Pro Tip: If you’re unsure about your resolution, zoom in 100% in your design software — what you see is what we’ll print.

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2. Save in the Correct File Format

We accept:

PNG – Preferred, with a transparent background

Avoid: JPEGs with compression artifacts, as they can cause print quality loss.

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3. Transparent Backgrounds for Cut Designs

If you want only your artwork printed (no white box around it), make sure to:

Remove the background in your design software

Save as PNG with transparency enabled

Double-check the file before submitting

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4. Color Mode for Printing

Use CYMK color mode — our printers are profiled for accurate CMYK + white conversion.

Avoid RGB files unless you are color-managing specifically for print.

Note: Colors may vary slightly between screen and print due to monitor settings.

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5. Avoid Thin Lines and Small Details

Minimum recommended line weight: 0.018 inches (0.45 mm)

Small text should be at least 10 pt bold for legibility.

Extremely fine details may not transfer well, especially on textured fabrics.

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6. Gang Sheet Layout Tips

If you’re submitting a gang sheet:

Keep at least 0.25 inches between designs to allow for easy cutting.

Arrange designs efficiently to maximize space and reduce cost.

Use our Gang Sheet Builder Software for a fast, drag-and-drop layout.

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7. Check for Bleed and Borders

If your design has a background color or full-bleed image, extend it slightly beyond the cut line to avoid unprinted edges.

Borders should be at least 0.125 inches thick to print cleanly.

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8. Double-Check Spelling and Design Accuracy

Our print process is exact to your file. If there’s a typo or incorrect detail in your upload, it will be printed as-is. Always review:

Spelling & Grammar

Logo Placement & Scaling

Correct Colors & Layers

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9. File Size Limits

Maximum file size: 200 MB per upload

If your file is too large, compress without quality loss using PNG/TIFF optimizers.

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10. Final Checklist Before Upload

✅ 300 DPI resolution
✅ Correct size for your intended garment
✅ Transparent background
✅ CYMK color mode
✅ All fonts converted to outlines or rasterized
✅ No hidden layers or unnecessary elements
✅ Proper spacing in gang sheets

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Why These Tips Matter

Submitting a properly prepared file means:

Faster production with no back-and-forth delays

Accurate, vibrant color reproduction

Cleaner edges and sharper prints

A better finished product for your customers