Artwork Services
We offer artwork services to help you get the best possible print results. At checkout, you can: decline services, opt in to free Basic Optimization, or request Advanced Artwork Services (vectorizing, background removal, halftones, spot colors, and more).
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Why we offer artwork services
Whether you realize it or not, every reputable commercial printer offering outsourced DTF transfers provides some level of artwork services. The reason is simple:
- Most print issues start with the file. In our experience, the majority of customer-care problems related to final print quality trace back to artwork issues (resolution, edges, transparency, tiny details, and file setup).
- Basic QA saves everyone time and money. Catching small issues before printing reduces reprints, delays, and surprises.
- Advanced help exists because not every file is “print-ready.” Some requests genuinely require real design work—and that time, expertise, and software cost money. Every shop draws the “free vs paid” line a little differently, usually based on economics.
Our goal is to help you succeed without turning your print provider into a free, unlimited art department.
AI is the elephant in the room
A lot of services offer a one-click “AI Optimize” button for things like vibrancy, upscaling, and background removal. We don’t, and that’s intentional:
- You can do it yourself instantly. If you like AI tools, you can run your file through your favorite service before uploading.
- AI changes fast. By the time a printer builds and maintains an “AI feature,” something else is already ahead.
- Predictability matters. For physical print, “mostly right” can still be wrong. We’d rather rely on real humans using professional tools for the last-mile prep.
Bottom line: Bring your artwork. We’ll help make it print-ready—without gambling on unpredictable AI edits.
Option 1: Decline Artwork Services (“Print As Is”)
It’s perfectly fine to decline artwork services—many customers do, for great reasons:
- You’re 100% certain the file is exactly what you want
- It’s a repeat order you’ve already approved and love
- You use professional tools (Illustrator / Photoshop) and know your file is production-ready
We do the same for many of our own in-house projects.
Good to know: Even if you decline, we still inspect every file for obvious red flags. If we see something that’s likely to produce a result you won’t be happy with, we may reach out—but we won’t make edits if you selected “Print As Is.”
When declining might not be ideal:
If your file was made in tools like Canva, Kittl, or AI generators, Basic Optimization is often a smart safety net.
If your file was made in tools like Canva, Kittl, or AI generators, Basic Optimization is often a smart safety net.
Option 2: Basic Optimization (Free)
Basic Optimization is free and performed by a human (not AI). It’s designed for minor, common improvements that help avoid preventable print issues.
What Basic Optimization can include (examples)
We don’t list every possible adjustment because it would be endless—but here are a few of the big ones we look for:
- Blurry or dirty edges
Helps prevent unwanted halos or thin white outlines. - Unintended semi-transparent pixels
Transparency can cause unexpected color shifts or edge artifacts. - Ultra-thin details (sub-1pt lines)
Very thin lines can be unpredictable in DTF and during heat application. If we spot details likely to fail, we may clean them up or contact you for guidance.
What Basic Optimization does not include
Basic Optimization is not advanced design work. It does not include:
- Background removal
- Vectorizing / redraw work
- Color removal or color replacement
- Halftone creation or halftone “makeover”
- Major design changes or layout edits
- Any work that could materially change the look of your art
If you need any of that, see Advanced Artwork Services below.
Why we don’t remove backgrounds by default
We want to call this out clearly because it’s one of the most common requests.
Background removal can be simple only when the file is high-resolution and well-built. In real-world uploads, it often turns into garbage in → garbage out:
- Many designs from web tools (Canva/Kittl) or AI outputs aren’t truly high-res or cleanly separated.
- “Auto remove” can chew up fine details, leave fringing, or alter edges in ways you won’t notice until it’s printed.
So we don’t remove backgrounds as part of Basic Optimization by default. If you need background removal, we can absolutely help—just treat it as Advanced Artwork Services so it’s done intentionally and reviewed.
We don’t use AI for Basic Optimization
We love AI. We also know where it causes problems.
- AI can introduce unwanted changes (especially in texture, edges, details, or color behavior).
- It’s usually just as easy for you to run an AI tool as it is for us.
- For printing, consistency and control matter more than novelty.
That’s why real humans using professional tools handle Basic Optimization.
Option 3: Advanced Artwork Services (Quoted as needed)
If you need anything beyond minor optimization—like:
- Vectorizing or rebuilding art
- Spot color creation / cleanup
- Advanced color tuning or brand matching guidance
- Background removal (intentional, reviewed)
- Halftone creation or refinement
- Converting an AI concept into a clean, print-ready design
…reach out using our help widget.
Sometimes we can knock out small requests quickly at no charge. Other times the request requires real production time, and we’ll provide a quote before proceeding.
How to choose the right option
When you upload your artwork, you’ll see a clear choice to:
- Decline artwork services
- Optimize for free Basic Optimization
Request Advanced Artwork Services via our help widget
If you’re unsure, the safe default for most customers—especially those using Canva/Kittl/AI—is Basic Optimization (Free).
One last note: consent matters
We inspect every file. If something needs true “design work” or could change your artwork’s intent, we’ll contact you first. We’re here to protect your vision—not reinterpret it.
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What People Are Saying
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"With Dmandprints, I’ve increased my business by over 30%, while saving both time and money. Their quality, service, and attention to detail have been outstanding—highly recommended!"
Essential Tips for Quality DTF Printing
Our guides are perfect for both beginners and seasoned print professionals. Discover valuable tips for creating artwork, mastering heat press techniques, and more. These resources ensure you achieve the best quality final product.
What Makes Dmandprints Different
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Q & A
Common Questions
Here are some quick questions and answers we frequently get about DTF prints and DMandPrints. We've placed them right here on the home page for your convenience!
Do you really think you have the best prints in the world?!
Do you really think you have the best prints in the world?!
Mmm... we think they’re pretty great—and we work relentlessly to keep making them better. It’s a bold claim (maybe even a little cocky), so we’ll let the results speak for themselves.
Do you sell printed garments?
Do you sell printed garments?
No, we only sell the prints.
You can purchase your own garment and a heat press to apply the heat transfer prints to your own garments. Our customers are typically small, medium and large screen printers that want to offer heat transfers as an alternative to their standard screen printing process.
Is Gang Sheeting Necessary for Your Artwork?
Is Gang Sheeting Necessary for Your Artwork?
There is no need to gang sheet your artwork.
We charge only for the actual print area. Our image processing system automatically removes any unnecessary transparent space around your image to accurately calculate the print area for our per-square-inch pricing.
Gang sheeting not only costs you time but can also cost you money. We can only trim transparent space around the edges of your artwork. If you create a gang sheet yourself, you might introduce unprinted space that increases the total square inches, leading to higher costs.
Summary
The easiest and most cost-effective way to get your prints is to simply upload your artwork. We'll handle the gang sheeting for you, saving you both time and money.
Are DTF prints better than traditional screen printing?
Are DTF prints better than traditional screen printing?
It's not a matter of being better or worse; DTF (Direct to Film) printing is simply an alternative to traditional screen printing. Both methods have their own unique advantages.
DTF heat transfers feel similar to screen-printed shirts and can often be more durable. Additionally, DTF printing allows for unlimited colors in a single print, providing flexibility for intricate and colorful designs. On the other hand, screen printing is well-loved for its ability to produce vibrant, long-lasting prints, especially in bulk.
Choosing between the two methods depends on your specific needs and preferences.
What types of fabrics can DTF prints be applied to?
What types of fabrics can DTF prints be applied to?
DTF prints can be applied to a variety of fabrics, including cotton, polyester, blends, leather, and even some non-textile materials.
Are DTF prints durable?
Are DTF prints durable?
Yes, DTF prints are known for their durability and can withstand multiple washes without fading or peeling.
Do DTF prints feel heavy or stiff?
Do DTF prints feel heavy or stiff?
No, DTF prints have a soft feel and do not add significant weight or stiffness to the fabric.
Can DTF prints be used for detailed and colorful designs?
Can DTF prints be used for detailed and colorful designs?
Yes, DTF prints are excellent for detailed and colorful designs, providing vibrant and high-resolution results.
Is DTF printing cost-effective for small batches?
Is DTF printing cost-effective for small batches?
Yes, DTF printing is cost-effective for both small and large batches, making it ideal for custom and limited-run designs.
Can I create DTF prints at home?
Can I create DTF prints at home?
While it's possible with the right equipment, most people prefer to use professional services for higher quality and ease of use.