The best file format for t-shirt printing in Vancouver is usually a vector file, such as AI, EPS, or PDF, because it can be resized to any print size without losing quality. If you don’t have a vector file, a high-resolution PNG (with transparent background) is typically the best alternative for most custom t-shirt printing jobs.
In short:
- Best overall: AI / EPS / PDF (vector files)
- Best non-vector option: PNG (high resolution, transparent background)
- Acceptable (with caution): JPG (only if high quality)
Below is a clear guide so you can send the right file and avoid print delays.
Best option: Vector files (AI, EPS, PDF)
Vector files are the gold standard for professional t-shirt printing because they are made of paths (not pixels). This means your design stays sharp no matter how big it gets.
Best vector file formats for printing:
- AI (Adobe Illustrator)
- EPS
- PDF (vector-based PDF)
Why print shops prefer vectors:
- crisp lines and clean edges
- perfect for logos and text
- easy color separation for screen printing
- best accuracy for scaling up designs
If you have a business logo, sending it in vector format is the fastest way to get a clean, professional print result.
Best for most customers: High-resolution PNG
If you don’t have a vector file, PNG is often the best option, especially for DTF and DTG printing.
Why PNG is ideal:
- supports transparent background
- works great for full-color designs
- easy to use for most customers
For best print quality:
- send PNG at high resolution
- avoid blurry screenshots
- make sure the design is not pixelated
If you send a low-quality PNG, the print may look soft or unclear, especially for small text and fine detail.
PDF files: Great, but only if they are truly print-ready
Many people send a PDF thinking it’s automatically perfect. In reality, some PDFs contain low-resolution images inside.
A PDF is excellent if:
- it’s exported from Illustrator or a professional design tool
- it contains vector artwork
- text is outlined or embedded correctly
If the PDF was created by printing a low-resolution image into a PDF, it won’t improve quality.
JPG files: Only if they’re high quality
JPG files can work, but they come with common issues:
- no transparent background
- compression artifacts
- edges may look rough
- not ideal for logos
If you only have a JPG, make sure it is:
- high resolution
- clean edges
- not compressed from social media
What Vancouver print shops usually need (fast checklist)
To avoid delays, send:
- logo: AI/EPS/PDF (vector)
- full-color artwork: PNG (high resolution)
- text designs: vector preferred, or PNG with large text
If you’re not sure, send what you have and a print shop can confirm what’s usable.
Quick tip: Don’t send screenshots
Screenshots are one of the biggest reasons Vancouver t-shirt printing orders get delayed or come out blurry. They usually don’t have enough resolution for sharp prints.
If possible, always send:
- original file
- exported print file
- or downloadable brand assets
If you want the fastest workflow and the best print outcome, having the correct file format matters more than people think, especially for professional t-shirt printing in Vancouver.
