Artwork Guidelines
Raster images are made up of individual pixels, and have a resolution (such as 72 dpi or 300 dpi). Typical examples of raster images include photographs and images created for websites. Most designs created in Photoshop are raster.
Vector images are a stored set of data points, which the computer understands as an image. Vector images are infinitely re-sizeable - they will never appear blurry or choppy when enlarged. Typical examples of raster images include logos, illustrations, and type.
Most business logos are designed in a vector format, so please contact your designer if you're unsure. Vector images will be saved in a vector-compatible format, such as PDF, EPS, CDR or AI. Please note that these formats also support raster images, so having a file saved in these formats does not necessarily mean that it is vector.
Screenshots and downloads from internet searches are raster.
When we design artwork for you, we design them as a master vector file. The file source is used for all decorating methods.
We can re-create your raster file into a vector file for a fee.
Usage
Raster files created at the size they will be printed, can result in good image output when we are printing direct to garment items.
Raster files can also be used as a reference for setting up the creation of a master embroidery file.
All other decorating methods require vector files.
Using Trademarks
A trademark cannot be used without permission from the owner.
Such logos are characters from Disney, Marvel, Children's TV shows; NHL and NFL team logos etc. We will NOT print without an official permission letter from the owner for your specific project.
Understand the Parody Exemption
Both copyright law and trademark law allow the use of parody as an exemption to infringement. This is significant when it comes to shirts and logos because it means that you can use a logo that parodies an existing logo without being accused of copyright or trademark infringement. You would need to alter the original logo to such an extent that it is clear to anyone who sees the altered logo that you are engaged in parody or satire. For example, you could alter the Apple logo to include worms poking their heads out of the bitten apple. That would clearly indicate to your audience that this is a parody of the iconic Apple logo. But you have to be careful, because if the altered logo is too similar to the original logo, you could be accused of creating a copyright infringement shirt.