How to Prepare a Design File for Fabric Printing
A design file for fabric printing should contain enough real pixels at final size, a defined colour profile and a seamless repeat when repetition is required. Changing only the DPI field does not create detail.
This guide covers technical file preparation rather than visual style. Always confirm the required profile, format and dimensions with the print provider.
What should a fabric printing file contain?
Physical size, pixel dimensions, resolution, colour mode, profile and repeat structure should be clear. File names and versions should prevent the wrong artwork from entering production.
Which details should be checked before delivery?
- Final print width and height
- Actual pixel dimensions
- Colour mode and embedded profile
- Repeat size and direction
- Format, layers and transparency
- Approved version and file name
What do DPI and PPI mean?
PPI describes pixels per inch in a digital image. DPI describes output dot density. Artwork preparation usually depends on PPI and total pixels, although DPI is commonly used as the general term.
Does a higher DPI value always improve quality?
No. Editing the resolution field without adding real image information does not create detail. Excessively large files can also slow transfer and processing without visible benefit.
How are required pixels calculated?
Multiply the final size in inches by the target PPI. Convert centimetres to inches by dividing by 2.54.
Formula: Pixels = (Centimetres / 2.54) × target PPI
A 50 cm design at 150 PPI needs approximately 2,953 pixels. The suitable PPI depends on texture, viewing distance, printing system and detail.
Which colour mode should be used?
The production workflow determines the mode and profile. Some textile RIP workflows process RGB source information, while others request a specific CMYK profile. Do not convert randomly without provider guidance.
Why should the profile be embedded?
An embedded profile defines how numerical colour values should be interpreted. Missing or incorrect profiles can make the same values appear differently between applications.
Which file format should be used?
Select a format from the artwork structure and the provider's accepted workflow. Check compression, transparency, profiles and layer support.
| Format | Typical use | Key check |
|---|---|---|
| TIFF | High-quality raster print files | Compression, profile, layers and size |
| PSD | Layered working files | Linked items, fonts and effects |
| PNG | Limited uses requiring transparency | Profile and true pixel dimensions |
| JPEG | Preview or accepted final files | Lossy compression and repeated saving |
| PDF or AI | Vector elements and technical artwork | Fonts, effects and embedded images |
Is JPEG sufficient for fabric printing?
JPEG may work when prepared at the correct size with low compression, but lossy compression can damage fine edges and flat colour areas. Repeated JPEG saving increases loss.
How is a repeat checked?
Left and right edges, and top and bottom edges, must join without interruption. Test the tile in a larger preview repeated horizontally and vertically.
Which repeat errors should be checked?
- Visible seams or gaps
- Dense motif bands
- Interrupted background textures
- Incorrect repeat dimensions or direction
- Joins damaged after scaling
How should artwork scale be set?
Evaluate scale in centimetres at actual print size, not from screen zoom. Motif size should relate to the product, fabric width and viewing distance.
Why are fine lines and small text risky?
Yarn structure, absorbency and texture affect fine detail more than paper. Test small type, thin outlines and close colour transitions on the intended fabric.
What is the final preflight checklist?
- Compare physical size with pixel dimensions.
- Confirm colour mode and profile.
- Test the repeat in a large preview.
- Check hidden layers, fonts and linked items.
- Use a clear version name.
- Include a small reference preview.
- Approve a sample on the intended fabric.
Frequently asked questions about fabric print files
Is 300 DPI mandatory for fabric printing?
Not in every case. Required resolution depends on final size, texture, viewing distance and artwork detail.
Should artwork be RGB or CMYK?
It depends on the production workflow. Confirm the required mode and profile before converting the file.
How is a seamless repeat tested?
Repeat the tile horizontally and vertically, then check for seams, gaps, dense bands and interrupted textures.