Printing Planet UK
Ordering custom printed clothing online for the first time can feel daunting. Artwork formats, print methods, size runs, delivery options – there is a lot to think about. This guide walks you through every step of placing an order with Printing Planet UK, from choosing your garment to receiving your parcel, so you know exactly what to expect.
Step 1: Choose Your Garment
Start by browsing the Printing Planet UK shop and selecting a blank garment. Key things to consider:
- Fabric composition – 100% cotton for the softest DTG print; polyester or blends for DTF
- Weight – 180gsm is standard for t-shirts; 280gsm+ for premium hoodies
- Fit – unisex, fitted, oversized? Check the size chart before ordering
- Colour – dark garments require a white underbase for bright prints; factor in cost
If you are unsure which garment suits your project, call our Putney studio on 020 3669 9854. We stock samples from Gildan, Fruit of the Loom, AWDis and Stanley/Stella and can advise on feel and sizing in person.
Step 2: Choose Your Printing Method
Printing Planet UK offers DTF, DTG and embroidery. A quick guide:
| Method | Best For | Minimum Qty |
|---|---|---|
| DTF | Any fabric, full colour, small runs | 1 piece |
| DTG | Cotton, photographic prints, soft hand feel | 1 piece |
| Embroidery | Polo shirts, caps, corporate logos | 1 piece |
| Screen printing | 50+ same design, bold limited colours | 25 pieces |
Not sure which to choose? Read our full guide to choosing the right printing method or ask at checkout and we will recommend based on your design.
Step 3: Upload or Design Your Artwork
You have two options:
Option A: Upload your own artwork. We accept PDF, EPS, AI, SVG and high-resolution PNG files (300dpi at print size). JPEG is accepted but not preferred. For detailed advice on file formats, see our artwork file format guide.
Option B: Use our online designer. Build a design using our text tools, clip art library and colour options directly in the browser. No design experience required. The designer outputs print-ready files automatically.
Artwork setup and minor adjustments are included free with every order. If your file needs significant rework, we will contact you with a quote before proceeding.
Tip: Always supply artwork at the size you want it printed. A logo that looks sharp on screen at 5cm may print blurry if it was only ever saved at 72dpi web resolution. When in doubt, send us the original vector file.
Step 4: Select Your Sizes and Quantities
Use our interactive size guide to select garment sizes. Add each size to your basket separately or use the size-run grid at checkout (for example: S x2, M x5, L x8, XL x3).
Key things to remember:
- Order an extra 5-10% to allow for replacements if items are damaged in transit or worn out before the event
- Mixed sizes within one order are fine and do not attract any extra charge
- We can split an order into named bags for team or group distribution – just note it at checkout
Step 5: Checkout and Delivery Options
| Delivery Option | Cost | Estimated Arrival |
|---|---|---|
| Standard (Royal Mail / DPD) | Free on orders over £100 | 3-5 working days after dispatch |
| Standard (orders under £100) | £5.99 | 3-5 working days after dispatch |
| Express (DPD Next Day) | £12.99 | Next working day after dispatch |
| Same Day London (courier) | £19.99 | Same day if ordered before 10am |
The same-day London delivery option covers most SW, SE, W and central London postcodes including Putney SW15. For more detail, see our same-day printing in London guide.
What Happens After You Order
Within 2 hours: Our artwork team reviews your file and contacts you if anything needs adjusting. Orders placed after 3pm are reviewed the following morning.
Production (2-5 working days): Your garments are printed or embroidered and quality-checked in our Putney studio.
Dispatch: You receive a tracking number by email the moment your parcel leaves us. DPD orders include a one-hour delivery window sent by SMS on the morning of delivery.
Reordering: Fast and Simple
If you have ordered from Printing Planet UK before, reordering is straightforward. We keep your artwork on file indefinitely. Simply call or email with your required quantities and sizes, confirm the blank and colour, and we go straight to production – no file re-upload, no artwork re-approval. Repeat order lead times are typically one to two days faster than first-time orders.
Common Questions
Can I change my order after placing it? Contact us within one hour of placing your order and we will do our best to accommodate changes. Once artwork has been approved and production has started, changes cannot be made.
Is colour matching guaranteed? We match to your supplied artwork file as closely as the print method allows. If precise Pantone matching is required, request it at checkout and we will advise on achievability and any additional cost.
What if something goes wrong? All orders include a quality guarantee. If a garment is misprinted, damaged or incorrect, we will reprint or refund without question.
Ready to place your first order? Head to the Printing Planet UK shop or call us on 020 3669 9854. Our team in Putney is here to help at every step. You might also find these guides useful: