Artwork

GUIDE 01 / FILE PREP + UPLOAD

Good production starts before the file ever reaches a machine.

Use this guide to give Silverjerk the cleanest possible starting point. Better source files mean fewer surprises, faster decisions, and a finished piece that looks intentional.

THE NONNEGOTIABLES

Build the file for the thing it will become.

01

Finished size is real size

Set artwork to the intended production dimensions. Tell us the units and do not rely on a filename alone.

02

Send the strongest source

Native vector or layered files preserve options. A screenshot, thumbnail, or image pulled from social media does not.

03

Name the intended process

DTF, specialty print, cut vinyl, and design work need different kinds of information. Tell us what the file is for.

REQUIREMENTS BY PRODUCTION LANE

DTF transfers

  • Transparent background when no printed background is wanted
  • Artwork at final size; 300 ppi is the preferred raster target
  • Clean edges with no accidental white boxes, halos, or stray pixels
  • PNG for finished transparent raster art; vector or layered source when available
  • Build complete gang sheets at the exact ordered dimensions

Signs + cut vinyl

  • Vector artwork is strongly preferred for cutting
  • Convert fonts to outlines or include the required font files
  • Close shapes, remove duplicates, and simplify unnecessary nodes
  • Identify finished dimensions, colors, substrate, surface, and intended lifespan
  • Do not add cut paths, bleed, or registration marks unless requested

Specialty print

  • Supply the highest-quality original image available
  • Set final dimensions and include bleed only when the finished piece requires trimming
  • Embed or identify the color profile; do not convert blindly between RGB and CMYK
  • Include linked images and fonts with editable layout files
  • Describe the desired paper, finish, viewing distance, and color priority

Design + source files

  • Send editable originals, brand standards, references, and existing assets
  • Explain what must stay, what can change, and what success looks like
  • Identify every required format, size, placement, and production process
  • Include the decision-maker, deadline, and useful budget range
  • Label versions clearly so the latest approved source is obvious

USEFUL FILE TYPES

Send what preserves the most information.

Preferred source: AI, EPS, SVG, PDF, PSD, TIFF, or the native application file with its links and fonts. Finished raster: transparent PNG when appropriate; high-quality TIFF or JPEG for photographic work. ZIP folders containing multiple linked assets before upload.

UPLOAD / THEN IDENTIFY THE JOB

A file in Dropbox is not an order.

Use the file request below for large artwork, then submit the brief or place the matching order. Use the same customer, company, or project name in both places so the handoff is unmistakable.

AFTER CHECKOUT / 3-STEP HANDOFF

Use the order number to tie the purchase to the files.

01 / UPLOADName files OrderNumber_LastName_Project, then send the strongest final artwork.
02 / REPLYReply to the confirmation email with final size, surface, placement, deadline, or anything the order did not capture.
03 / REVIEWSilverjerk checks the artwork, material, dimensions, and production risks before the job moves forward.

DTF gang sheet? If the artwork was uploaded inside the Kixxl builder, it is already attached to that order. Do not upload it twice.

NOT SURE THE FILE WILL WORK?

Do not gamble the production order on a guess.A $25 Production Match Review turns one goal and its artwork into a clear recommendation.
Buy the Review — $25