When customers decide to create custom apparel such as custom t-shirts or custom jerseys, but have no access to a graphic designer, they might pick out a standard artwork available online to use as the design. However, sometimes you might want your custom apparel to feature unique artworks. In this case, you might need to create the design by yourself. Here are a few tips and tricks that might help you in this endeavour, particularly when you are working with image processing software like Adobe Photoshop or Illustrator.
Make sure that you go for high quality artwork
The worst thing that can happen to you is for the custom artwork to look pixelated on the custom apparel. This usually happens when the quality of the image selected in Photoshop or Illustrator is poor. Make sure that the image resolution is always set at 150dpi or more and you will get good results. Just remember that although your artwork might look perfect on the screen of your computer, you need to tweak it and trace its edges, so it doesn’t appear pixelated on your custom t-shirt or jersey.
Choose your fonts carefully
There are thousands of fonts out there to choose from when it comes to creating a unique, personalized artwork. Make sure that you explore a variety of them and find out what can accentuate your branding. For example, if you want a cozy feel to your brand, go for a font that looks like handwriting. Also, you should keep in mind that although hundreds of fonts come for free, some of these fonts require you to pay a small fee to use them in your custom artwork.
Remember to outline and expand
One of the most common mistakes people make when designing artwork for their custom t-shirts is forgetting to outline and expand the artwork elements. Basically, you should keep in mind that not all computers feature the best font you want to use for the artwork, so it is important to add outlines around the text to make sure that the end result is gorgeous. After you've placed the outlines on the artwork elements, you might also want to expand the borders and strokes. This will keep your design proportional at all the times.
Identify the custom colours correctly
When your t-shirts are created, the printers need to match the colours of your artwork so make sure that you identify the ink colours you are using. If you use Illustrator, use the colour swatch tool to identify these colours. Look for the Pantone Matching System colour number to find out the exact colours used in your custom artwork and when you are ordering your custom t-shirts, let the vendor know about these details.
Opt for the right kind of printing method
When printing your artwork on a custom t-shirt, you have several options at your disposal. For example, when it comes to screen printed designs, you might want to lower the amount of colours that your artwork features. This will keep the price of your custom t-shirts lower. On the other hand, if it is paramount for you to have a complex and colourful artwork then you might want to opt for digital printing to obtain the best results possible at the most cost effective price.
Use our "Design Studio" feature to create artwork
If you want an easy way to create print ready artwork for your custom T-shirts or custom sweatshirts, you can also use our newly launched Design Studio to help you create cool artwork for your custom apparel. You are able to upload your own design or use our preset files to help you create interesting artwork. In addition, we can also design a special logo for you if you do not have a basic design and want something more unique.
There you go! As you have learned by now, it isn't difficult to create print ready artwork for your custom apparel. Entripy.com is always ready to assist you at every step of the way, so talk to us if you have more questions.
