FAQ 1：What file formats can I upload to the Custom Lab?

We accept PNG (recommended for logos with transparency), JPG and TIFF (recommended for photos and memes), AI and PSD (Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop files, which we rasterize to 1200 dpi print output). PDF files with embedded images are also accepted. Max file size is 50MB per upload. For best results, upload a PNG with transparent background for graphic designs, or a high-resolution JPG at 300 dpi for photorealistic prints like player faces and meme screenshots.

FAQ 2：What resolution should my design be for custom shirt printing?

For photorealistic DTG direct-to-garment printing, we recommend 300 dpi at actual print size. For a standard 12″ × 16″ front print, your file should be 3600 × 4800 pixels. Files between 150-300 dpi will print acceptably but may show softness on fine details. Files below 150 dpi will trigger a warning in our preview — we won’t block the order, but we’ll show you exactly how the softness will look on fabric so you can decide.

FAQ 3：How accurate is the 3D preview compared to the actual printed shirt?

Our preview is a physics-based simulation, not a generic mockup. It accounts for fabric texture, DTG ink absorption, white underbase opacity on dark garments, and garment drape over the chest. In independent testing, our preview-to-physical accuracy exceeds 95% for color placement and 92% for color value (Delta E < 3.0). The only variable we cannot fully simulate is your monitor’s color calibration — we recommend viewing the preview on multiple devices before approving.

FAQ 4：How does the Squad Order Hub work for custom team shirts?

The captain creates a design using any Custom Lab tool, then clicks “Convert to Squad Order.” This generates a unique, shareable link. Team members click the link, see the locked design, add their own name and number (if the captain allows), select their size using our fit finder, enter their shipping address, and pay individually. The captain tracks all orders in real time on a dashboard. No minimum orders, no cash collection, no leftover inventory. Perfect for custom team shirts no minimum and custom team jerseys 10 pieces or less.

FAQ 5：Can I add just text and numbers without uploading an image?

Yes. Our Text & Number Tool lets you create full designs using only typography and numbering. Choose from 60+ DTG-optimized fonts, set curved paths, add outline effects, and preview exactly how the text will look on ribbed collars and smooth jersey panels. This is ideal for custom jersey with my name orders, fantasy football champion shirts, ironic slogan shirts, and team roster prints.

FAQ 6：Can I upload a photo of a player, celebrity, or meme screenshot?

You can upload any image you own the rights to. For player faces, celebrity images, and popular meme screenshots, we recommend using our built-in comic-style and caricature filters to convert the image into an original illustration rather than a direct reproduction. This helps avoid right-of-publicity and copyright concerns while preserving the recognizable essence. Our system flags known restricted images and provides guidance on parody and fair-use boundaries. See our Upload Guidelines for full details.

FAQ 7：What is DTG printing, and why is it better than screen print for my custom order?

DTG (Direct-to-Garment) uses inkjet technology to spray water-based CMYK inks directly onto fabric, bonding with the cotton fibers. Unlike screen print, which requires a separate physical stencil for every color, DTG handles unlimited colors and photorealistic detail in a single pass. This makes it the only cost-effective method for print on demand upload your own design at 1-piece scale. DTG also produces a softer hand-feel, survives 50+ washes without cracking, and handles gradients and photos that screen print cannot reproduce. Screen print is cheaper at 100+ units with simple 1-2 color designs, but for custom uploads, photos, memes, and small batches, DTG is superior.

FAQ 8：What if I make a mistake in my design or the print doesn’t match the preview?

You can edit and re-preview your design unlimited times before checkout — we only charge when you click “Approve & Pay.” If the physical garment deviates from your approved preview by more than 5% in color or placement due to our production error, we reprint it free under our 30-day quality guarantee. No return required; just send a photo of the issue and we’ll queue the reprint within 24 hours.

FAQ 9：Are the templates free to use? Is there an extra charge for template customization?

All templates are free to browse, customize, and use. You pay only for the garment and the DTG print — never for the design tool or template access. There are no hidden fees for adding text, changing colors, uploading photos into template frames, or combining multiple templates. Premium designer templates (marked with a ★) are also included free; we do not upsell “pro” design features.

FAQ 10：How fast will my custom lab order ship?

Standard Custom Lab orders enter the print queue within 2 hours of approval and ship within 24 hours. Squad Order Hub orders ship within 24 hours of the captain closing the order. Rush Reaction orders (selected at checkout) ship within 6 hours if approved before 2 PM EST. Delivery takes 2-3 business days in the US, 3-5 days to Canada, and 5-7 days to the UK and Australia. You’ll receive a tracking number the moment your package leaves our lab.