Before sending artwork for bulk custom T-shirts, gather the original design file, intended print dimensions, garment colour and a list of every branding position. Keep names and numbers in a separate checked file. Tell the supplier what is final and what still needs guidance so the artwork can be assessed against the garment and proposed production method.

This checklist is for Indian college committees, company teams and event organisers preparing a design handover. It focuses on file readiness and approval, not on choosing a supplier or promising a particular printing result.

The Alma Mater answer

Send the highest-quality original artwork available, not only a screenshot. Identify the garment, print locations, intended dimensions and personalisation. Ask which file format and image detail are needed for the selected process. Check the final version, spelling and layout before approval; a digital mockup alone does not establish physical print feel or exact finished colour.

Need your design assessed alongside an order requirement? WhatsApp Alma Mater your artwork status and bulk T-shirt brief. Include the quantity, garment preference, delivery city and required-by date.

1. Gather original files, not just screenshots

Send the original editable artwork or the highest-quality export available. Vector artwork can preserve the shapes of logos and lettering when resized. A PDF can contain vector elements, raster images or both, so the file extension alone does not establish that the artwork is suitable.

If the only available file is a PNG, JPEG or screenshot, share it honestly and ask whether it needs preparation. Converting a low-detail image to another format does not automatically restore missing detail. Keep inspiration references separate from the artwork intended for production.

2. Check detail at the intended print size

An image that looks sharp on a phone can appear pixelated when enlarged across a garment. Share the intended dimensions if known and ask the supplier to assess the file at that size. Image resolution is meaningful in relation to the output size, not merely the number written in an export setting.

Do not assume increasing file dimensions creates new detail. Ask what image quality is required for the actual process rather than applying one resolution rule to every design. If the file is unsuitable, discuss options before approving a production specification.

3. Identify each front, back and sleeve placement

Label every position separately, even when the same logo appears more than once. A small chest mark and a large back graphic are different requirements. Specify approximate dimensions and alignment where known, and note any uncertainty that needs discussion.

A reference mockup can explain your intention, but it should not be the only production information. Ask how the design will be positioned on the proposed garment and how size variation will be handled. Do not assume every seam, pocket or sleeve area is suitable for the intended artwork.

4. Explain colours and backgrounds clearly

State the garment colour and which design colours are essential. Ask how any brand-colour reference will be interpreted for the proposed process. Screen appearance, fabric surface and decoration method can affect the finished appearance.

If the artwork has transparency, confirm whether the background is intended to remain unprinted. If it has a white or coloured rectangle behind the design, explain whether that is part of the artwork. Review the design against the chosen garment colour rather than only on a white screen.

5. Check text, fine lines and linked assets

Review spelling, batch years, department names, sponsor marks, websites and any small lettering. Check the artwork at the intended dimensions. Fine lines or tiny text that look clear when zoomed in may not be suitable at the final size.

For editable files, ask whether fonts should be embedded or converted to outlines and whether linked images need to be included. Keep an editable master for your committee or company. Follow the supplier's handover requirements instead of assuming that every recipient can open the original design application.

6. Keep personalisation in one checked list

Separate individual names, numbers, roles or department versions from the shared master artwork. Use one file linking each personalisation entry to the correct garment size and version. Check duplicate entries, blanks, spelling and the total quantity.

Nominate one coordinator to consolidate corrections. Scattered chat messages should not become competing final instructions. The bulk size-collection guide helps organise the garment list alongside the artwork.

7. Ask for an artwork-specific production recommendation

Share the actual garment, quantity, design, placements and expected use before selecting a method. Fine details, gradients, fabric surface and branding area can affect suitability. Do not assume one method is universally cheapest or best.

The DTF versus screen printing guide provides comparison context. Ask which options apply to your file and garment, and confirm any artwork-preparation charges or limitations before committing.

8. Approve one final version

Ask what mockup or sample arrangements are available, including timing, charges and what each reference represents. A digital mockup can communicate layout and wording, but it does not establish garment fit, fabric feel or exact physical decoration.

Keep one final artwork version with the approved garment specification, quantity, size breakdown and personalisation list. Nominate the person authorised to approve it. Ask how later changes would affect cost or timing rather than assuming revisions remain possible after production has progressed.

A final artwork handover checklist

• Original or highest-quality available files are included.
• References and final artwork are clearly distinguished.
• Garment colour and intended dimensions are stated.
• Every branding position is identified.
• Colours and background intentions are explained.
• Spelling, years, fine detail and linked assets have been checked.
• Personalisation is in one approved list.
• The proposed method and file requirements have been discussed.
• The final artwork version and approver are identified.

Copy this artwork enquiry message

Hello Alma Mater, we are preparing artwork for bulk T-shirts.
Organisation and occasion:
Expected quantity:
Garment preference, colour and fit:
Artwork attached: original file / export / reference only
File preparation guidance needed:
Front/back/sleeve positions:
Approximate dimensions, if known:
Essential colours and background instructions:
Names, numbers or separate versions:
Size breakdown status:
Delivery city and postcode:
Required-by date:
Please confirm artwork suitability, any preparation requirements or charges, quote inclusions and order-specific delivery feasibility.

Frequently asked questions

Is a PDF always print-ready?

No. It can contain different kinds of content. Ask for the actual file to be checked at the intended output size.

Can I send a screenshot?

You can share it to explain the idea, but do not assume it is suitable for production. Include the original file if available.

Will changing the resolution setting fix a blurry logo?

Not automatically. Changing a setting does not restore missing detail in the original image.

Can I send a design-tool link?

Ask what the supplier can access and which export is required. Check permissions and provide the necessary file rather than relying on an inaccessible link.

Do I need a different file for every print position?

Identify each position and its dimensions clearly. Ask how the supplier wants the artwork organised for the selected process.

Can I request a quote before artwork is final?

Yes. Mark the design as provisional and ask which decisions need to be finalised before quotation confirmation and production approval.

Send artwork with the full order brief

Alma Mater Store serves Indian college, corporate, team and event requirements with pan-India delivery. WhatsApp Sumathi at +91 76191 68045 with your artwork status, quantity, garment preference, delivery city and required-by date. For the broader ordering sequence, use the bulk T-shirt ordering guide.