Great apparel isn’t just design, its design that fits with real production
Artwork Placement & Size Guide
How to design a garment that actually works in production.
Great apparel isn’t just design, its design that fits with real production. Of course, anything is possible but that doesn’t fly with “any” kind of budget and time constraint.
When decorating supplied garments, a helpful analogy is a pizza. What is a pizza? Base + Toppings (sauce and cheese are toppings). A good base is the best way to start, and just like a pizza every topping costs a little extra - and it can be overdone.
Let’s break it down:
Placement
Each placement is effectively a new topping. Separate set up. Separate loading. Separate print. Separate cure.
FRONT = Left chest, right chest, centre chest big front
BACK = Nape, big back
SLEEVES = ...well, sleeves
Note: Feasibility of placement is garment dependant. Zips, Seems, button and other trims dont print well.
Dimensions
The max standard print area is 38cm x 43cm.
The max standard embroidery area is 30cm x 43cm.
Beyond that, it becomes a different job.
To the right, maxxed out print postions.
Mock Ups
Mock Ups are a part of the service we offer and a great to visualise your garment BUT mock ups are not technical drawings, they are… Mock Ups.
Please do not rely on a mockup. Grab a ruler or tape measure and actually see “is this 10cm where I need it?”
Real World Application
Brand / Resale
Aim = something people actually want to wear and represents the right level of value
Typically: balanced / slightly oversized
Mistake: mistaking small for minimal
Events / Promo
Aim = visibility + readability
Typically: bigger prints
Mistake: mistaking aesthetics for functionality
Corporate / Uniforms
Aim = clean + professional
Typically: small chest + subtle options
Mistake: going to big can look tacky
Bands / Tours
Aim = get the fans frothing
Typically: depends on the band
Mistake: not leaving room for margin
Rules of Thumb
Not sure? Go bigger.
Want fashion? Ask us.
Want visibly? Go bold.
Want safe? Left chest.