To prepare a logo for t-shirt printing in Vancouver, you should provide a clean, high-quality file that can be printed at the correct size without pixelation. The best option is a vector logo file (AI, EPS, or PDF). If you don’t have vector files, you should send a high-resolution PNG with a transparent background.
A properly prepared logo helps you get:
- sharper prints
- better color accuracy
- faster turnaround time
- fewer back-and-forth revisions with the print shop
Below is a practical checklist you can follow.
Step 1: Use the best file format (vector is ideal)
The best logo formats for t-shirt printing are vector files:
- AI (Adobe Illustrator)
- EPS
- PDF (vector-based)
Vector logos can be resized to any print size without losing quality. This is especially important for sharp edges and clean text.
If you don’t have vector files, use:
- PNG (transparent background, high resolution)
Avoid if possible:
- screenshots
- copied logos from websites
- low-resolution JPG images
Step 2: Make sure the logo is high resolution
Even a great logo will look bad if it’s low resolution.
Minimum recommendation:
- 300 DPI at final print size
If you’re not sure, ask the shop what print size they recommend, then export your file at that exact size.
Step 3: Keep the background clean (transparent is best)
For most t-shirt printing jobs, your logo should have:
- transparent background
- no white square behind it
That’s why PNG is preferred over JPG.
If your logo has a background color, make sure it’s intentional and matches your design.
Step 4: Choose correct colors (and provide brand colors if needed)
Color issues are common in printing when customers only send an image without guidelines.
To get consistent results:
- provide brand colors (HEX/RGB)
- provide Pantone codes if you have them
- send a reference image of how it should look
This helps reduce surprises when you print uniforms, merch, or repeat orders.
Step 5: Outline fonts (very important for logos with text)
If your logo includes text (business name, slogan, etc.), the safest approach is to convert the text to outlines.
Why?
- fonts may not match on different computers
- missing fonts can change your logo shape
- outlines keep the design consistent
Most designers can export an outlined logo quickly.
Step 6: Decide print placement and size
Before printing, you should confirm:
- left chest logo (small)
- full front logo (large)
- back print
- sleeve logo
Also confirm:
- print width in inches
- whether you want centered or aligned placement
This avoids rework and makes sure the final shirts look professional.
Step 7: Send the full package to the print shop
For faster production, send these together:
- your logo file (AI/EPS/PDF or PNG)
- target print size
- shirt color
- quantity and size breakdown
- deadline
A Vancouver print shop can usually start production quickly if everything is clear from day one.
Preparing your logo properly is one of the easiest ways to improve print quality and avoid delays, especially when ordering t-shirt printing in Vancouver.
