You don’t need expensive software to make sellable designs. Pick a tool that matches the style you want to make.
Types of tools
- Browser based design tools. Good for text based designs and layouts. Fast to learn.
- Vector editors. Best for logos, clean shapes and anything that must scale without blurring. Free options like Inkscape exist.
- Raster painting apps. Best for illustrated, hand drawn or textured art. Krita is a free option on desktop.
- Drawing tablets. Useful if you draw by hand. An entry level pen tablet is enough to learn on.
File settings that matter for printing
- Check your print provider’s recommended size and resolution for each product, and design at that size.
- Use a transparent background for shirts and similar items.
- Keep important details away from the edges of the print area.
- Save a master file you can edit later, plus the export you upload.
Licensing
Fonts and graphics need a licence that allows use on products for sale. Free for personal use is not enough.
TREVOR: add the tools and fonts setup you actually use, if you want to share it.
