1. Overview
Clipart images are designed for assets used in customization such as logos, graphics, and icons. These images are applied to products (e.g., T-shirts, promotional items) during the design process and must be optimized for both visual quality and print accuracy.
To ensure a seamless customization experience in the Artifi designer, clipart images must follow standardized rules related to format, quality, resolution, transparency, and scalability. Properly formatted clipart ensures correct rendering, accurate printing, and consistent placement across products.
2. When Should You Follow Clipart Image Guidelines?
Clipart image guidelines should be followed in the following scenarios:
- Uploading clipart assets to the library
- Adding logos, and icons for customization
- Creating or importing design elements for products
- Preparing artwork for printing.
3. Image Specifications
Supported File Formats
Preferred formats:
- PNG (with transparent background)
- SVG (for scalable/vector use)
- AI
- Auto-Digitized – EMB files for embroidery
Avoid:
- JPG/JPEG (no transparency)
- Low-quality raster images
Background Requirements
- Transparent background is mandatory
- No white boxes or visible edges
- Clean cutout around the artwork
Image Quality & Resolution
- Minimum resolution: 300 DPI (print ready)
- Recommended size: 500 px or higher
Avoid:
- Pixelated or blurry images
- Compression artifacts
Design Quality
- Sharp edges and clean outlines
- No noise or unwanted shadows
- Proper anti-aliasing (smooth edges)
Size & Proportion
- Maintain original aspect ratio
- Avoid stretching or distortion
- Ensure clipart fits intended placement area (e.g., chest, sleeve)
Scalability
Clipart must:
- Scale without quality loss
- Work for both small and large placements
- SVG/vector format is recommended for scalability or large print areas like the banner or tent.
Layering & Transparency
- Transparent areas must remain clean
- No hidden or embedded backgrounds
- Avoid overlapping artifacts
Content Restrictions
- No copyrighted images without permission
Avoid:
- Offensive or inappropriate content
- Watermarked images
- Poor-quality downloads
Placement Readines
Clipart should be:
- Center-aligned friendly
- Easy to position (front, back, sleeves)
- Maintain safe margins from edges
Naming & Organization
- Use clear and descriptive file names:
✅ Arizona Cardinals.png
❌ image123.png
Organize by categories:
- Icons
- Text
- Logos
- Patterns
4. Common Issues & Troubleshooting
Issue: Clipart appears with white background
Possible Cause:
- Uploaded image is JPG or non-transparent PNG
Resolution:
- Use PNG with transparent background
- Remove background before uploading
Issue: Clipart looks blurry or pixelated
Possible Cause:
- Low-resolution image
- Image is scaled beyond original size
Resolution:
- Use high-resolution (300 DPI) images
- Upload image with minimum 500 px size for smaller print areas and more than 3000 px dimensions for larger prints areas like banners.
Issue: Clipart does not scale properly
Possible Cause:
- Raster image limitations
Resolution:
- Use SVG/vector format for scalability
5. Best Practices & Recommendations
- Always use transparent PNG or SVG
- Maintain high resolution (300 DPI or higher)
- Ensure clean edges and proper cutouts
- Use print-friendly colors
- Avoid distortion or resizing issues
- Test clipart placement in the designer before finalizing
- Prefer vector formats for flexibility and larger print areas.
6. Q&A
Q1: What is the best format for clipart?
PNG with transparent background or SVG for scalability.
Q2: Why must clipart have a transparent background?
To ensure proper placement and avoid unwanted white boxes during customization
Q3: What happens if clipart is low quality?
It will appear blurry, pixelated, and produce poor print results.
Q4: Can JPG images be used as clipart?
Not recommended, as JPG does not support transparency.
Q5: Why is 300 DPI important?
It ensures that the image is sharp and print ready.
Q6: What should be done after uploading clipart?
Test placement, scaling, and appearance in the designer to ensure correct rendering.