What Size Photo File Does Gelato Need for Shirts?

Photographic Requirements for Gelato Shirt Production

Gelato, a renowned print-on-demand service, sets specific image file requirements to ensure optimal print quality and satisfaction for its customers. Understanding these requirements is crucial for designers and individuals seeking to create high-quality custom shirts.

Optimal Image Size and Resolution

• Minimum Resolution: 150 pixels per inch (PPI)
• Recommended Resolution: 300 PPI
• Minimum File Size: 1 MB
• Recommended File Size: 5 MB

It's important to note that higher resolution images generally produce sharper prints. However, file sizes also increase, so it's advisable to strike a balance between resolution and file weight.

Supported File Formats

Gelato supports the following image file formats:

• JPEG (.jpg)
• PNG (.png)
• TIFF (.tif)
• PSD (.psd)

Color Mode

CMYK Color Space: Gelato operates in the CMYK color space, commonly used for print production. It's essential to convert images to CMYK before uploading to avoid color discrepancies.

File Naming Conventions

For efficient processing, Gelato recommends naming image files as follows:

[Product Name]-[Image File Name].[File Extension]

Example:

MyCoolShirt-Front.jpg

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Low Resolution Images: Using low-resolution images will result in pixelated or blurry prints.
• Incorrect Color Mode: Uploading images in RGB color space may lead to incorrect color reproduction.
• Excessive File Size: Extremely large files can slow down the design process and potentially cause errors.
• Unsupported File Formats: Uploading files in unsupported formats can prevent proper printing.
• Incorrect File Naming: Improper file naming can make it difficult to identify and locate specific images.

How to Resize and Optimize Images for Gelato

1. Choose an Image Editing Software: Select an image editing software such as Adobe Photoshop or Canva.

2. Resize the Image: Use the "Image Size" or "Resize" function to adjust the image dimensions to meet Gelato's requirements.

3. Convert to CMYK: If the image is in RGB color space, convert it to CMYK using the "Image Mode" or "Color Space" option.

4. Save the File: Save the optimized image in the desired file format and resolution, as per Gelato's guidelines.

FAQs

1. What happens if I upload an image with lower resolution than recommended?

Lower-resolution images may print with visible pixelation or reduced sharpness.

2. Can I use vector images for Gelato shirts?

Yes, you can upload vector images in SVG or EPS format. However, it's essential to ensure vector elements are optimized for print.

3. What is the maximum file size Gelato accepts?

Gelato's maximum file size varies depending on the product and printing method. It's generally around 20 MB for digital printing and 50 MB for other methods.

4. How can I check if my image meets Gelato's requirements?

Upload your image to Gelato's design studio and use the "Check Image" feature to verify its quality.

5. Can Gelato provide professional image editing services?

Gelato offers professional image optimization services for an additional fee. Designers can request this service through their Gelato account.

6. What if I have additional questions about image specifications?

Gelato's customer support team is available to assist with any queries or concerns regarding image requirements.

Conclusion

Meeting Gelato's image specifications ensures that your custom shirt designs will be printed with exceptional clarity and vibrancy. By adhering to these guidelines, designers and individuals can create high-quality shirts that meet their expectations and the standards of Gelato's print-on-demand platform.