Spec
Transparent PNG
A PNG file with a transparent alpha background so only the design prints and the surrounding film stays clear.
Definition
A transparent PNG is a PNG image file with an alpha channel that preserves transparency. Areas of the file with no design content are clear, not white. Transparent PNGs are the preferred submission format for DTF and UV DTF artwork because the production engine prints only the visible design and leaves the surrounding film unprinted. White areas in a transparent PNG print as ink, not as transparency, so the artist must use full alpha (not white pixels) for any background that should not print. Long Island DTF Printing accepts transparent PNG at 300 DPI as the default file submission.
Related Terms
Alpha Channel
The transparency channel in a raster image that controls which pixels print and which stay clear.
Print-Ready File
An artwork file that meets all the technical specifications required to send directly to the production press.
Knockout
An area of a design where the white underbase is removed so the substrate color shows through the print.
DPI
Dots per inch. The resolution measurement for raster images, with 300 DPI as the production standard.