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The important point here is to keep the file resolution high enough for the image to remain
sharp. It is generally accepted that a file needs to be at 300 DPI at the final size in order for it to
remain crisp.
In garment printing, you can get away with file resolutions of 150 to 300 DPI at the final
size.
You MUST know the actual resolution and size of the image, otherwise you could be working on
a very small file and not know it. If the resolution is not sufficient, enter any changes and click on
Apply. Remember that an appropriate image size should be 150 to 300 DPI.
If the images physical size is too small, resize the image before changing
the resolution.
In Photoshop, go to Image > Image Size. If it says pixels per CM, change this to inches and
then enter the image’s intended final print size. Re-adjust the resolution and make sure that
Bicubic is selected. The physical size should be the final print size.
If you have an image that is very low resolution, your only real choice is to change the image
size and resolution. This is often referred to as “Upsampling.” Photoshop upsamples the image,
but in doing so, it must make calculations where to place the extra pixels and what color to
make the pixels. Images may have softer edges when upsampled, but they will also be less
pixilated! If you can get a higher resolution file from the client, do so. CorelDRAW and Adobe
Illustrator have similar Image Size functions.
Important Point
If the original file is low resolution and not the final size, you need to upsample the file to the
final print size and 150 to 300 DPI (150 is OK for photos and images without hard edges. 300 to
350 is better where there is lettering or sharp edges). Now, you can work on the file and add
type or other elements. It is important to upsample the image first so any additional elements
you add will be at the higher resolution. If you aren’t sure if the image is sharp enough, simply
zoom in on the file. It might look great zoomed out but very soft or jagged when you zoom in. It
will print the way you see it when zoomed in.
Check File Saturation
Quite often customers’ images will be flat and in need of a color boost. Always check the file to
see if it needs a saturation boost by going to Image > Adjustments > Hue Saturation
(Photoshop).
Sharpening Images
Typically, an image can be made sharper. Even if the file came from an agency or large
licensed job, don’t assume that their artist knew your needs. Images that are printed not only get
darker, but also get softer. You must make them as sharp as possible.
Go to Filter > Sharpen> Unsharp Masking (Photoshop). Don’t let the term “Unsharp” fool you.
This term comes from the process camera days and means it only sharpens areas of high
