Learn how to prepare logos for sublimation printing, including recommended file formats, image resolution, transparent backgrounds, and artwork effects.
Dye-sublimation printing supports full-color artwork, gradients, and detailed graphics without the color limitations of many traditional decoration methods. However, the quality of the finished print still depends on the artwork provided.
Low-resolution images, unwanted backgrounds, and improperly prepared effects can affect the appearance of a sublimated logo. Using clean, high-quality artwork helps preserve detail and consistency in the finished design.
Vector artwork is generally preferred because it can be resized without losing sharpness. SVG and properly constructed vector PDF files are good options when supported by the upload workflow.
Transparent PNG files are also suitable for logos, provided they have sufficient resolution for their intended printed size.
JPEG files can contain usable artwork, but their lack of transparency and potential compression artifacts make them less convenient for logos placed over colored designs. Simply saving a low-resolution image as a PDF or SVG does not improve its quality or convert it into true vector artwork.
For raster artwork such as PNG or JPEG files, we recommend 300 pixels per inch (PPI) at the intended printed dimensions. This provides sufficient detail for most logos and graphics used in sublimation designs.
The actual pixel dimensions matter more than the resolution setting alone. Enlarging a small image or changing its PPI metadata does not restore missing detail. Vector artwork can be scaled without the same resolution limitations.
Logos placed over jersey colors, patterns, or other design elements should generally have transparent backgrounds. Transparent PNG files and vector artwork allow the underlying design to remain visible around the logo.
A white or colored background included in the artwork may appear as part of the printed design, even if it was not intended. If your logo includes a deliberate background shape, such as a badge or emblem, that background can remain part of the artwork.
Check for unwanted borders, background colors, and excess transparent padding before uploading.
Sublimation can reproduce gradients, shading, and other full-color effects, but their appearance depends on how the artwork is prepared and rendered.
Complex transparency effects, blending modes, and layered artwork may render differently when exported or imported into design software. For predictable results, review the exported artwork carefully and use a high-resolution raster version when an effect cannot be reliably preserved in vector format.
Flattening artwork can help preserve its intended appearance, but it should be done at sufficient resolution and with the correct background or transparency settings. Flattening does not automatically resolve every printing issue.
Individual logos uploaded into the Online Designer do not require their own garment-edge bleed. The Online Designer handles placement within the product's existing design template.
Full-garment artwork prepared outside the Online Designer is different. Designs extending to garment edges must account for the applicable production template, including bleed and construction allowances. For externally prepared full-garment artwork, follow the requirements of the specific product template rather than applying a universal bleed amount to every logo.
For the most reliable results, start with the highest-quality original artwork available. Use vector files when practical, or a high-resolution PNG with transparency when appropriate.
A clean source file makes it easier to position, scale, and reproduce your logo consistently across sublimated products.