We’ve put together a detailed Artwork Guidelines document to help you prepare files correctly for fabric printing.
Following these steps ensures your designs print as expected, avoids errors, and reduces the chance of rework.
The guidelines cover:
File Setup
Dimensions
For repeat designs, crop your file exactly to one repeat tile (no borders, overlaps, or excess design). We’ll duplicate the repeat to achieve your required meterage.
For panels or engineered prints, set up your file to make the best use of the fabric width.
Resolution
We can print files anywhere from 72dpi–300dpi, but for the sharpest results we recommend 300dpi at full size.
Always check your artwork at 100% zoom to avoid pixelation, and request a sample before large runs.
Colour Mode
Files can be set up in RGB or CMYK.
Once you choose, keep it consistent between batches to maintain colour accuracy.
Be aware that RGB files may print differently, and screens often vary from printed fabric — samples are the best way to confirm colours before committing to meterage.
File Type
Save your file as a PDF (minimum Acrobat 1.6).
Repeats vs Panel Printing
Repeats
Crop files to the exact repeat size, with no borders, overlaps, or excess design.
If you’ve created a repeat using Illustrator’s swatch tool, remember to expand it before saving so colour values print correctly.
Panels
Set up panels to make the best yield across the fabric width.
Allow for shrinkage by making panels approx. 2cm larger than the finished size (e.g. 45 × 45cm cushion → 47 × 47cm file).
Add 1–2cm seam allowance if panels will be sewn.
All panel prints are supplied with file name labels on the outer edge for easy identification.
Order extra panels to allow for fabric flaws (holes, joins, loose threads, ladders, dirt marks, etc.).
Mereton covers reprints only if the issue was a print fault. We are not liable for shrinkage, fabric flaws, or costs associated with product construction.
Laser Cutting File Setup
If you’re preparing files for laser cutting:
Apply a 1.5–2mm black outline to every shape that needs to be cut.
Nick marks and notches will not be cut and must be added separately by your workroom.
