Short answer: Divide the image's pixel width by its intended width in inches to calculate PPI, and check height the same way. For centimetres, divide by 2.54 first. Changing a resolution label does not add original detail; the artwork still needs review at its proposed size and for the intended decoration process.
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Use pixels ÷ inches = PPI
Adobe's printed-image resolution explanation relates pixel dimensions to output size. PPI describes image pixels per inch at that size. People often use “DPI” loosely in artwork requests, but printer dots and source-image pixels are not the same measurement.
| Proposed width | Calculation | Effective image resolution |
|---|---|---|
| 8 inches | 2400 ÷ 8 | 300 PPI |
| 12 inches | 2400 ÷ 12 | 200 PPI |
| 20.32 centimetres | 20.32 ÷ 2.54 = 8 inches; 2400 ÷ 8 | 300 PPI |
| 30.48 centimetres | 30.48 ÷ 2.54 = 12 inches; 2400 ÷ 12 | 200 PPI |
Use the pixels belonging to the artwork you intend to print, not a large mostly empty canvas. Check both dimensions, preserve the intended proportions and account for any crop. These calculations describe resolution; they do not approve the design or prescribe a standard print width.
A new label is not new original detail
Adobe's resizing and resampling guidance distinguishes changing output dimensions from changing pixel data. Upsampling estimates additional pixels. It cannot recover detail that was never captured in the original, even if the resulting file is larger.
Illustrative example: a 600-pixel logo with a 300 PPI label
Illustrative example · Not a documented customer order
A coordinator wants the logo 6 inches wide. The original contains 600 pixels across, so its effective resolution at that width is 600 ÷ 6 = 100 PPI. A metadata label saying 300 PPI does not change that calculation.
The coordinator looks for the original vector logo or a genuinely larger source. If neither is available, they ask about a smaller design or artwork review instead of presenting an upsampled file as newly recovered detail.
Check the process requirements and the image itself
The STAHLS UltraColour MAX specification gives resolution expectations for that product at actual size. That is evidence that requirements are process-specific, not a universal “300 DPI means approved” rule for ANCO.
- Find the original pixel dimensions rather than reading only the resolution label.
- Record the intended width and height with units.
- Calculate the effective PPI after any crop.
- Inspect lettering, edges and compression damage at the intended size.
- Check raster images embedded inside otherwise vector documents.
- Tell ANCO about uncertainty before approving the artwork.
Send dimensions alongside the original file
For ANCO's DTF printing review, supply the best original, the proposed physical size and the garment location. Let the review address fine detail and suitability as well as the numerical calculation.
Identify mixed file contents with the artwork-format guide. Check unwanted rectangles and edge pixels separately in the transparent-background guide.
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.