Colour & Resolution Guide

What is a colour profile?

A colour profile tells software how to interpret the colour values in your file. sRGB, Adobe RGB and Display P3 are different colour spaces. A missing or incorrectly assigned profile can change how the same image looks.

Export in sRGB

sRGB is a practical choice for artwork uploaded to our website. It helps software interpret the file consistently, but it cannot guarantee a screen-to-print match. Printing still converts the artwork into the colours the inks and material can reproduce.

• In Photoshop, use Export As with Convert to sRGB and Embed Color Profile enabled.
• For an existing Photoshop document, use Edit > Convert to Profile and choose sRGB IEC61966-2.1. Simply assigning a different profile can change the appearance.
• In other software, choose an sRGB export where available. Keep an editable original and check the exported image.

Why can print look different from the screen?

Screens emit light; printed inks reflect it. Screen brightness, viewing light, ink, white backing and the chosen material all affect the result. Very bright RGB colours, subtle dark shades and smooth gradients can be difficult to reproduce exactly.

A Pantone reference or hex code does not guarantee an exact match in process-colour printing. If a logo colour is critical, contact us before ordering and arrange a test on the intended product. Check the physical result before committing to a full run.

Resolution depends on print size

Image resolution is measured in pixels per inch (PPI), often called DPI in print ordering. Printer DPI refers to ink dots. For your artwork, the useful question is how many pixels are available at the size you want printed.

• Logos and text: aim for 300 PPI or higher at the ordered size, or use clean vector artwork such as SVG.
• Photos: 150–200 PPI can be usable, depending on the image and viewing distance; 300 PPI is a better target for close viewing.
• Check both dimensions: do not stretch the image out of proportion to make it fit.
• Changing the DPI number alone adds no detail. Increasing the print size reduces the effective resolution.

AI upscaling may improve a small image’s appearance, but can alter lettering and fine details. Compare the processed version with the original at your chosen size. Use a better source file or a smaller print if detail is missing.

Small text and fine detail

• Judge text at the actual print size. Font size alone does not tell you whether thin strokes and small gaps will reproduce.
• Use clear, medium or bold lettering. Test tiny text, fine lines and isolated dots before a larger order.
• Convert text to outlines in SVG files. PNG text is already stored as pixels.
• Vector shapes can scale cleanly, but embedded photos still need sufficient resolution and imported artwork must be checked.

Special finishes need a physical check

Glitter, holographic and metallic finishes change with light and viewing angle. Reflective materials react to direct light. Neon finishes have a fluorescent appearance; glow finishes need light exposure before they glow in the dark.

A preview shows placement and an approximation of the effect. It cannot reproduce sparkle, reflection or glow accurately. Check the selected product’s description and availability; not every transfer finish has a matching sticker option.

White ink and transparent areas

Standard garment DTF uses a white backing to help colours show on dark fabrics. Colour is normally printed onto the film first, followed by white. After application, the white layer sits between the garment and the colour.

• Fully transparent areas of the approved Standard DTF artwork receive no ink. An opaque white background left in the artwork prints white.
• White details remain part of the print even on a white garment; the printed white may differ from the fabric in shade and texture.
• Soft, partly transparent edges can look different over a white backing. Check cutouts and fades carefully.
• On clear or effect stickers, check the product description for white-ink coverage. Do not assume white artwork will print as opaque white. Contact us before ordering if you need white details or colour to show on a dark surface.

For file formats and a final checklist, see Artwork Preparation.