Short answer: Send the best original artwork you have and explain the intended garment, print size and location. Identify whether the design contains vector shapes, raster images or both. Keep an editable master; exporting a small image into a PDF or SVG does not automatically recreate it as vector artwork.
Part of Artwork, production and ordering. Planning an order? Explore DTF Printing in Calgary.
Identify what is inside the file
Adobe distinguishes pixel-based raster artwork from mathematical vector shapes. Vector shapes can scale without the pixel grid of a raster image, but a design document may contain embedded raster content that still needs a resolution check.
| What you have | Useful next step | Do not assume |
|---|---|---|
| Editable vector logo | Keep the master and send an appropriate delivery copy for review | Every object in the document is vector |
| Original photograph or raster design | Supply original pixel dimensions and intended print size | Changing the file extension adds detail |
| PDF with mixed content | Inspect embedded images and preserve the original document | PDF means the entire design is vector |
| PNG logo | Check pixel dimensions, transparency and edges | Every PNG has a transparent background |
| Screenshot or web preview | Look for the original design or larger source before exporting again | A larger saved canvas restores missing detail |
Adobe's PNG description confirms that PNG supports transparency. That capability does not prove the specific file uses it.
Keep an editable master and a clear delivery copy
- Save the original design with editable text and linked assets intact.
- Name the delivery copy with a version, such as team-logo-v3, instead of several files called final.
- Check whether linked images are included or available to the person reviewing the document.
- If text is converted to outlines, verify the wording first and retain the editable original.
- Remove unintended notes, duplicate designs and background rectangles from the delivery artwork.
- Tell ANCO what is uncertain instead of claiming a file is print-ready from its extension.
Adobe explains that outlining text makes it paths, which removes ordinary text editing. Preserving the master avoids making a future wording correction depend on rebuilding the letters.
Check the source file, intended print size, background, wording and handoff details before requesting review.
Download the artwork checklist (Markdown)No form or email required.
Illustrative example: the PDF contains a small JPEG
The container changes; the image does not
Illustrative example · Not a documented customer order
A coordinator receives a PDF with a logo that is actually a small embedded JPEG. Saving the document as a second PDF leaves the logo's original pixel detail unchanged. Renaming it or placing it inside an SVG document does not redraw the logo as vector shapes.
The coordinator asks for the designer's original logo. If it cannot be found, they send the available file with the proposed print dimensions and ask what review or artwork work is needed before approval.
Send the file with the production question
For DTF apparel printing with ANCO, include the garment, location, dimensions and best available original. File acceptance depends on the actual content and order; this comparison is not a promise that every listed format is accepted by the quote upload field.
Use the resolution calculation guide for raster images. Once the artwork has been reviewed, use the proof-approval checklist to confirm the exact version and placement.
Sources and scope
Manufacturer examples explain specific products and do not confirm ANCO stock, equipment or suppliers. ANCO reviews the proposed garment, artwork and order before confirming suitability.