Overview
Your design is only as good as the file you upload.
Treat Pod can produce beautiful, professional-quality printed products — but the key to success is providing the best artwork you can.
Here are our top tips to help you get the best results, avoid common pitfalls, and make your customers happy.
1️⃣ Start with High-Resolution Artwork
✅ Always aim for 300dpi (dots per inch) at the final print size.
- Low-resolution images will appear blurry or pixelated.
- Resizing small images up doesn't add quality — it just makes flaws bigger.
✅ Check the recommended dimensions for each product in our design tool.
Tip: If in doubt, make your artwork bigger rather than smaller.
2️⃣ Use the Right File Types
✅ PNG is recommended for designs needing transparency.
- Ideal for logos, text overlays, or artwork with clear backgrounds.
- No unwanted white boxes around your design.
✅ JPEG/JPG works for photos or designs with solid backgrounds.
- Smaller file sizes but no transparency.
Always export at maximum quality to avoid compression artefacts.
3️⃣ Mind Your Safe Zones and Bleed
✅ Keep important elements (like text or logos) well within safe zones.
- Slight shifts can occur during printing.
- Avoid placing critical details right on the edge.
✅ Use bleed if the product template recommends it.
- Ensures full coverage without unprinted edges.
- Essential for wraps or edge-to-edge designs.
4️⃣ Check for Unwanted Backgrounds
✅ Make sure you remove any background you don't want.
- Transparent PNGs let you control where your design appears.
- Avoid unexpected white boxes on coloured products.
✅ Always double-check transparency in your design software before uploading.
5️⃣ Pay Attention to Colour
✅ Use RGB colour mode for your files.
- Our system handles conversion for print.
✅ Be aware of colour shifts.
- Screens use light (RGB) and can appear more vibrant.
- Printed colours may be slightly less bright.
✅ Materials matter.
- Ceramic, wood, fabric and glass all absorb ink differently.
- Subtle variations are normal.
Pro tip: Avoid neon colours or ultra-bright shades that don't reproduce well in print.
6️⃣ Think About Your Brand Consistency
✅ Keep fonts, colours, and layout consistent across your products.
- This helps you build a recognisable, professional shop.
✅ Consider how products will look as a range.
- Mugs, bags and wall art can all share a cohesive style.
Your brand is more than one design — think about the whole experience.
7️⃣ Always Use the 3D Preview
✅ Our design tool’s preview lets you see your artwork on the actual product.
- Double-check positioning.
- Spot issues like stretching, misalignment or borders early.
✅ Make adjustments before saving.
This step saves time and avoids surprises later.
8️⃣ Test with Samples
✅ Order a sample of your product before offering it for sale.
- Check the print quality in real life.
- Photograph it for your listings.
- Ensure it meets your (and your customer’s) expectations.
This is the single best way to ensure the results are as you imagined them and will delight your customers.
✅ Need More Advice?
If you’re unsure about preparing your artwork or want feedback on your designs, contact our team — we’re always happy to help you get the results you want.