How to Prepare Image for Screen Printing
Preparing an image for screen printing means converting it to flat, spot-color vector artwork with separated color layers. Follow these steps to create files that any screen printer can use.
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Preparing an image for screen printing requires converting it to flat, spot-color vector artwork. Screen printing uses physical stencils — one per color — so your file must be broken into clean, separate color layers with no gradients or photographic shading.
Step 1: Vectorize the image. Upload your PNG, JPG, or logo file to the Logo Vectorizer.
Step 2: Simplify the color palette. Screen printing works best with 1–6 spot colors. In Inkscape or Illustrator, reduce the artwork to your target color count by merging similar shades. Each unique fill color becomes one screen.
Step 3: Separate into color layers. Arrange each color as a separate named layer or group in the SVG or AI file. Name each layer by its Pantone or spot color — this helps the print shop set up the press correctly.
Step 4: Convert gradients. Replace any gradient fills with flat colors or halftone dot patterns. Most screen printers cannot cleanly reproduce gradients in spot-color printing.
Step 5: Add an underbase for dark garments. Create a white fill layer slightly larger than the design to prevent the shirt color from showing through the ink.
Deliverable: an SVG, PDF, or AI file with named color layers, flat fills, and no transparency or gradient effects. Submit your file at the final print dimensions with color names labeled.