Good artwork makes a bulk T-shirt order easier to quote, approve and produce. A low-resolution image, unclear print location or last-minute design change can delay approval and create avoidable production questions.
Use this checklist before sending artwork for custom T-shirts, college merchandise, corporate apparel or event teamwear.
1. Send the original artwork file
Send the highest-quality version available instead of a screenshot from a chat or social media post. Vector artwork is useful when available because it can be resized without losing the shape of logos and text.
If the original file is not available, send the largest high-resolution image you have and explain where the design came from. The supplier can then confirm whether it is suitable or needs preparation before production.
2. Check image resolution
Artwork should be clear at the intended print size. An image that looks sharp on a phone may become pixelated when enlarged on a T-shirt.
Share the intended print dimensions or ask for a mock-up at the approximate size. Do not assume that increasing the file dimensions automatically creates better detail if the original image is low quality.
3. Confirm colours
Explain which colours are essential to the design and which can be adjusted if needed. Garment colour, print method and production settings can affect how a design appears.
Check the design on the actual garment colour rather than approving it only on a white screen. Dark garments may need a different artwork treatment from light garments.
4. Specify every print location
Write down whether the design goes on the front, back, sleeve or another location. A chest logo, full-front graphic and large back print are different production specifications.
Include an approximate print size and placement in the brief. A simple mock-up helps everyone understand the intended result before the order is approved.
5. Check small text and fine lines
Small text, thin lines and intricate marks may not reproduce clearly at a small print size. Review the design at the actual intended size and remove details that are not essential.
For college merchandise, check event names, years, department names and sponsor logos carefully. For corporate apparel, check the company name, website address and any small brand message.
6. Decide whether personalisation is required
If the order includes names, numbers, departments or roles, keep the personalisation list separate from the master artwork. This makes it easier to confirm the quantity and check spelling.
Prepare one approved list showing each person’s name, size, personalisation and design version. Avoid treating scattered chat messages as final approval.
7. Ask about the right printing method
The best method depends on artwork detail, number of colours, quantity, fabric, print size and expected use. DTF may suit detailed or multi-colour artwork in some situations, while screen printing may be worth comparing for larger consistent orders with bold designs.
Read our DTF versus screen printing guide for a practical comparison, then ask for a recommendation based on your actual artwork and quantity.
8. Approve a realistic mock-up
Before production, review a mock-up showing the design on the chosen garment colour, at the approximate size and in the intended placement. Check the artwork, spelling, colours, print locations and design versions.
Approval should come from one responsible person. Multiple uncoordinated approvals can lead to different versions being sent to production.
9. Share artwork with the complete bulk-order brief
Send the artwork together with:
- Product type, colour and fit
- Total quantity and size-wise breakup
- Front, back and sleeve requirements
- Personalisation list, if required
- Delivery city and required-by date
- Packaging or sorting requirements
This gives the supplier enough information to recommend a suitable production option and quote the complete requirement.
Common artwork mistakes
- Sending a screenshot instead of the original file
- Approving artwork without checking it on the garment colour
- Leaving print size and placement unspecified
- Changing the design after size collection
- Using different versions of a logo in the same order
- Forgetting sponsor, sleeve or back branding
- Sharing the deadline only after artwork approval
Final artwork checklist
- The original or highest-quality file has been shared
- The artwork is clear at the intended print size
- Colours and garment colour are confirmed
- Every print location is listed
- Small text and fine details have been checked
- Names and numbers have a separate approved list
- The printing method has been discussed
- A final mock-up has been approved
- Quantity, sizes and delivery date are included
Requesting a custom T-shirt quote
Send your artwork with the product preference, quantity, size breakup, print locations, delivery city and required-by date. If the artwork is not yet print-ready, mention that at the start so the supplier can explain the next step.
For broader planning, read our custom T-shirt bulk-order guide before finalising the garment and quantity.
Ready to prepare your order? Share the artwork and bulk-order brief with Alma Mater Store for a practical quote.
Request a custom T-shirt printing quote with your artwork and quantity.