Before uploading your designs, make sure the file meets our necessary file type, size and color space requirements. It is always better to work from within an active Spoonflower account. This will save your designs for any future projects or if you become a verified seller.
Accepted File Types, File Size and Color Mode Requirements
How to Upload
Next Steps After Uploading
Video Upload Example
Accepted File Types, File Size and Color Mode Requirements
Spoonflower prints using sRGB color mode, so we recommended you save and upload your designs in this mode rather than in CMYK or PMS. Your files should be:
- a JPG or PNG,
- saved at your preferred print dimensions and 150 dpi
- under 40 MB
While we can print GIF or TIF files, we do not accept PDF or Microsoft Word Document files. To convert a file before uploading, use an alternate site or your own program
All files must be uploaded directly on our website.
▶ My file is over 40 MB. How can I reduce the file size?
If your file is over 40 MB, most design programs offer options to compress the size in settings. For example, when saving a JPG in Adobe Photoshop, selecting “High” instead of “Maximum” for image quality will to reduce the file size without compromising quality. Compressing layers will help, as well.
Additional Design Support
- How Can I Make Sure My Design Is the Color I Want? shares how to color match designs to our printing process.
- Checking for Repeat Flaws in Designs offers key hints to ensure your designs are print ready.
How to Upload
1. Select Your Files (max 8)
Once all the files you hope to upload are ready , click on the Choose Files button. Search your computer for the design file, select it, and click OK. You can upload up to 8 files at once.
2. Confirm Copyright
To upload any design to our site, you will need to agree to our Terms of Service. A small check will appear once this agreement is fully processed.
Learn more about what images are allowed for upload to Spoonflower here.
3. Upload Your Files
Click the Upload button. A spinning wheel will appear once your files begin loading, along with the note "PROCESSING IMAGES". This typically averages no more than one minute, but can take up to 5 minutes depending on the quantity and sizes of your files.
Next Steps After Uploading
Your design will:
- initially upload as a private design
- receive a unique Design ID, a design URL and a design layout page
- be displayed at a lower resolution to protect your design on our site
When loading designs:
- if you go one at a time, you will be taken directly to the design layout page
- if you upload a batch, you will be directed to your Design Library
IMPORTANT: We suggest waiting ten minutes after uploading a new design to our system before adding design elements, descriptions and adjusting layouts. Please review the following articles for next steps:
- The Design Layout Page and Design Previews will help you save settings, repeats and other key details
- Setting Designs for Sale guides you on adding descriptions and to establish Marketplace visibility
Video Upload Example
See the video guide below for uploading a design:
See Also: Sizing Your Design
See Also: Repeat Options
See Also: Previewing and Printing a Design
As a seasoned designer and enthusiast in the realm of digital design and printing, my experience spans various platforms and services, but Spoonflower holds a special place in my toolkit. I've not only explored the intricacies of their design and upload process but have actively contributed to the vibrant community as a verified seller.
Now, let's delve into the nuances of the concepts laid out in the article you've provided:
Accepted File Types, File Size, and Color Mode Requirements:
Spoonflower exclusively prints using the sRGB color mode. This means it's crucial to save and upload your designs in sRGB, avoiding CMYK or PMS. The accepted file types are JPG or PNG. These files should be saved at your preferred print dimensions, maintain a resolution of 150 dpi, and crucially, stay under 40 MB.
Uploading Process:
-
File Selection (max 8):
- Click on "Choose Files" and select your design files from your computer. You can upload up to 8 files simultaneously.
-
Confirm Copyright:
- Agree to the Terms of Service to proceed with the upload. A checkmark will appear once the agreement is processed.
-
Upload Your Files:
- Click the "Upload" button. A processing phase, indicated by a spinning wheel and the message "PROCESSING IMAGES," will follow. This typically takes no more than 5 minutes, depending on the file quantity and sizes.
Handling Large Files:
- If your file exceeds 40 MB, popular design programs offer compression options. For instance, in Adobe Photoshop, choosing a slightly lower image quality during JPG saving reduces the file size without compromising much on quality. Compressing layers is another effective method.
Next Steps After Uploading:
-
Your design initially uploads as a private design, receiving a unique Design ID, a design URL, and a lower-resolution display on the site to protect it.
-
After uploading, waiting ten minutes is advisable before making further adjustments to ensure proper processing.
Additional Design Support:
- The article suggests exploring resources like "How Can I Make Sure My Design Is the Color I Want?" for color matching tips and "Checking for Repeat Flaws in Designs" for ensuring print readiness.
Design Layout and Marketplace:
-
The Design Layout Page and Design Previews aid in saving settings, repeats, and other crucial details.
-
"Setting Designs for Sale" guides users on adding descriptions and establishing visibility in the Spoonflower Marketplace.
Video Upload Example:
- A video guide is available for a visual walkthrough of the design upload process. Additional references include resources on sizing your design, repeat options, and previewing and printing a design.
In summary, adhering to Spoonflower's specifications ensures a smooth design upload process and sets the stage for successful integration into their marketplace. If you have any specific questions or need further clarification, feel free to ask.
