DTFORDER / CONTENT STANDARDS
CONTENT.
STANDARDS.
Clear expectations for the artwork we print. Understand which designs meet our standards, which may need changes, and which we cannot accept.
For custom apparel, DTF transfers, UV stickers and other custom printed products.
Creative expression.
Clear boundaries.
DTFOrder supports bringing groups and communities together using custom apparel. We appreciate the impact a unifying focal point can have on building relationships among people.
We understand that people have diverse perspectives as communicated through the custom designs they create. However, we must balance our customers’ goals and freedom of expression with the potential negative impact on others and the general public.
We use the following standards to clearly communicate what DTFOrder will, may, or will not print when creating custom products.
DTFOrder uses a set of content standards to set clear expectations about what will be printed. We use a color-coded, stoplight system to identify the types of content that meet our standards.
DTFOrder content categories are listed below. These descriptions provide general guidance and are not intended to be exhaustive. The ultimate decision on design approval rests with our content standards team.
Content we will not print.
DTFOrder will not print designs when we are reasonably confident that they:
- Violate the intellectual property rights of others (see intellectual property policy)
- Constitute libel, fraud, or other illegal activity
- Encourage violence or abuse against people or groups
- Constitute or include hate speech
- Encourage hate or harassment of private individuals
- Promote, feature, or encourage the use of hard drugs
- Feature explicit sexual content or nudity of a non-artistic/health/medical nature
- Include sexually suggestive images or text involving children
- Promote, feature, or encourage underage drinking, smoking, or marijuana use
These restrictions apply to the complete design, including its wording, imagery and symbols.
Content that needs a closer look.
DTFOrder may not print or may require changes to designs that:
- Include defamatory statements
- Encourage hate or harassment of public figures
- Dehumanize people or encourages violence
- Include vulgar or lewd content
- Feature sexually suggestive content including images of an artistic/health/medical nature
- Focus on violence, including events, terms, or images
- Promote, feature, or encourage illegal activity
- Promote or defend criminal or alleged criminal acts
- May inspire harm or violence
Appropriate content.
Authorized artwork.
DTFOrder will print designs that:
- Use language and images suitable for people of all ages
- Are unlikely to offend others
- Support intellectual property rights by using legally authorized content
All applicable content rules still apply. Content acceptance is separate from whether a file is correctly sized, clear enough or otherwise ready for production.
Make sure you have
the right to use it.
Know where your artwork came from.
Use artwork you own, artwork covered by a suitable license or permission, or content you can otherwise lawfully use. Keep the documentation that supports your intended use.
Finding an image online, purchasing a digital download or crediting its creator does not, by itself, establish permission for every printing or resale use.
Check the permission details.
- Your intended use: confirm that permission covers the products and purpose involved.
- Third-party elements: check logos, photographs, illustrations and other protected content within the design.
- License conditions: read any limits on commercial use, merchandise or quantities.
- Supporting records: keep the relevant license, written authorization or ownership details available.
Questions About Content Standards & Printing?
If you have any questions about your design, whether it meets our standards for printing or how it may need to be adjusted, please contact one of our DTFOrder representatives using our contact information.
Share the complete design.
Send a clear copy of the artwork, including its full wording and imagery. Include your order number if you have already placed an order.
Explain what needs review.
Tell us which part you are unsure about, what the design means, and how it will be used. Include any relevant permission or license details.
Discuss the next step.
Our team can explain whether the design fits our standards or may need changes. If you revise it, share the updated artwork for review.
Know where your design stands.
Does uploading artwork guarantee it will be printed?
No. A file upload does not override these standards. The final decision on content approval rests with DTFOrder’s content standards team.
Can a yellow-category design still be accepted?
Possibly. The wording, imagery and context may need review, and changes may be required. A design that also meets a red-category restriction will not be accepted on the basis of its yellow-category context.
Can I use artwork I found online or bought from a marketplace?
Check the rights and license for your intended use. Access to a file or a purchase receipt does not necessarily include permission to reproduce it on merchandise. Review the applicable terms and keep any authorization available.
What if my artwork is artistic, educational, health-related or medical?
Include that context when you contact us. The existing standards place certain artistic, health and medical imagery in the review category. Context helps our team assess the design; it does not guarantee acceptance.
Do these standards apply to UV stickers as well as apparel?
Yes. These are content standards for custom printed products, including DTF transfers, UV stickers and custom apparel. Each product also has its own file preparation and application requirements.
Can the team help me understand what to change?
Contact us with the complete design and explain your question. Our representatives can help clarify the applicable standard and whether adjustments may be needed before the design can be accepted.