AI & Canva Creative Guidance

Good ideas grow
through conversation.

From the first thought to artwork we can make. Start where you are, talk it through, and keep the pieces that matter.

← Policies & Guidelines · Production requirements →

The first version is a starting point. You may need a few attempts to find the direction. Talk through what works, what feels off, and why.

Make room for the conversation.

You don’t need a perfect prompt to begin. Talk through what you’re imagining, invite questions, and explore suggestions together. Richer work often develops through that exchange, with each conversation helping clarify the next step.

Share what you like, what feels off, and why it matters. You can ask your AI collaborator to help find the words, compare directions, or workshop an idea before creating anything.

Your context, your collaborator’s suggestions, and Rocket Tees’ production experience each contribute to what takes shape. Leave room for something you hadn’t considered.

Optional: choose your collaborator

Find a fit for the way you work

Choose by the job in front of you.

This is a practical starting guide, not a benchmark or a quality ranking. Style, references, account features, and the individual result matter. Try the same small brief with your preferred collaborator and review what works for you.

Talk it through

I need help finding the idea.

Start a conversation with ChatGPT, Grok, Gemini, or Claude. Ask for questions, a short brief, and two or three directions before requesting artwork.

Generate + explore

I want an illustration or photographic concept.

ChatGPT, Grok, and Gemini have image-generation features. Canva also offers image features. Use references and compare outputs for the style you need; we have not rated one as universally better.

Arrange + preserve

I need exact lettering and matching versions.

Use Canva or another design application to apply the real font, reuse original logos, and arrange editable elements. Ask your AI collaborator to help plan the system and variations.

Simple shapes

I need a simple editable vector graphic.

Claude can create code-based SVG visuals; other conversational collaborators can help write SVG too. This is a different workflow from generating an image. Have RT inspect the actual paths and file before production.

Review + refine

I have artwork but something feels off.

Share the reference and intended use with a conversational collaborator. Ask for a critique or proposed revision before another generation. Check important details yourself.

Production preparation

I need cutting, separations, or stitches.

Bring the master to RT. Vector conversion, color separations, and embroidery digitizing are distinct preparation tasks. A collaborator can help simplify the concept; the result still needs production review.

Compare specific file capabilities below →

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Open the full collaborator capability grid

AI creative collaborators / Compare capabilities

Who can help with what?

Use the collaborator you’re comfortable with. The table distinguishes ordinary image features from extra preparation. Features vary by account and change over time. Reviewed November 10, 2026.

“With an extra step” may mean a separate editing feature, code, integration, or specialist application. It does not mean the downloaded image is automatically ready for RT.

On a small screen, scroll the table sideways to compare collaborators.

Capabilities and production preparation
What you need ChatGPT Grok Gemini Claude Canva
Improve a prompt or plan a design Yes Yes Yes Yes AI writing features
Generate an illustration or image Yes Yes Yes Not standard image generation¹ AI image features
Revise an uploaded image Yes Yes Yes Can review it; image editing needs another application Editing / AI features
Transparent background Supported; check export Background removal supports transparency Confirm actual export; removal may need another application Possible in simple SVG graphics; photo removal needs extra preparation PNG/SVG options; account dependent
Create simple editable vector shapes With an extra step: SVG code² With an extra step: SVG code² With an extra step: SVG code² Can create SVG graphics² Vector elements/export; inspect contents
Accurately vectorize an existing image Use a dedicated tracing/rebuilding workflow. An SVG filename or generated “vector look” does not establish accurate vector conversion. RT must review the result.
Create a production-approved embroidery stitch file Specialist digitizing and production review required. These collaborators can help develop the concept; an image or SVG is not a verified stitch file.
Apply an exact established font Ask for font suggestions; apply and verify the real font in a design application. Generated lettering is not proof of font use. Use the real selected font in an editable text box
Matching designs and style references Can help plan and develop variations. Supply approved references and reuse exact assets; inspect for changes. Reuse original elements and editable layouts
Required production size / resolution Check actual pixel dimensions or vector contents at the intended decoration size. Asking for “300 DPI” alone is not enough.

¹ Claude’s standard chat can analyze images and create code-based visuals; its documentation distinguishes these from photo and illustration generation. ² SVG code can describe real vector shapes, but may contain embedded pictures, text that depends on fonts, or unsuitable detail. This is a separate workflow from the image generator and needs checking.

Official capability references
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Already have artwork? Start with what you have.

Keep the original file and any source logos or photographs. You may need a check, a precise edit or production preparation rather than a completely new design.

Find the next step for your existing artwork → · Only have a product mockup? →

Stage 01 / Plan the project

Plan the project before the picture.

Do this nextChoose the item, color, placement, approximate size, and production method. If you are unsure about the method, ask RT before polishing the artwork.

A little context early can save a lot of reworking later.

Artwork can look convincing on screen and still need preparation for printing, stitching, or engraving. Some files reach Rocket Tees with unwanted backgrounds, lettering that is difficult to reproduce, or graphics available only inside a product mockup.

These are useful things to plan for. Tell your AI collaborator what you’re making, how it will be decorated, and which details matter before creating the artwork. That shared direction gives the design a stronger starting point—and leaves room to refine it together.

A large shirt graphic, a small embroidered cap, and an engraved gift need different kinds of artwork. Tell your collaborator:

  • The item: what it is, its color, and material if known.
  • The placement: front, back, sleeve, cap, patch, or another area—and approximate width.
  • The quantity: include different garment sizes, names, and versions.
  • The method: screen printing, DTF, embroidery, engraving, or another process.
  • The future: will you need matching items or different wording later?

Not sure how it will be made? Ask Rocket Tees before polishing the design. Product, quantity, material, and budget can help determine the approach.

Choose your production method

Create with the process in mind.

Open the method you need. These are creative starting points; RT confirms the actual item and production requirements.

Screen printing

While creating

Start with an agreed ink-color count, bold readable shapes, and spaces between details. Keep each intended color distinct. Describe the garment color separately from the ink colors.

Watch for

Tiny distress marks, hairlines, photographic shading, and many subtle color changes can complicate preparation. Gradients may require halftones or another production approach; ask RT before committing.

Tell your collaborator

Create flat artwork for screen printing on [garment color], approximately [width], using [number] solid ink colors: [colors]. Keep shapes distinct and lettering readable. Avoid simulated fabric, lighting, metallic shine, tiny fragments, and unintended extra shades. Preserve open areas where the garment should show. Keep the design simple enough to trace or rebuild cleanly if vector preparation is needed.

Before production

RT confirms color separations, usable size, detail, setup, and any vector or halftone preparation.

DTF & transfers

While creating

Create sharp artwork at the intended decoration size, with a real transparent background where needed. Say which white or black areas should print and which should show the garment.

Watch for

Soft transparent glows, smoke, fading edges, tiny floating dots, and unwanted boxes can need cleanup. A color gradient inside a solid shape is different from an edge fading into transparency.

Tell your collaborator

Create artwork for a DTF transfer, approximately [width] on [garment color]. Show the complete design alone, without a garment or scene. Use a genuinely transparent background if supported. Keep the printed shapes opaque and edges clean; avoid soft transparent shadows, glows, and tiny isolated fragments. Keep [intentional white or black details] as part of the design. Provide the largest original output and report its actual pixel dimensions if you can verify them.

Before production

RT checks effective resolution, transparency, fine details, and suitability for the item. A gang-sheet builder arranges the files; it does not repair them.

Embroidery / embroidered caps

While creating

Start at the actual small placement size. Favor substantial shapes, clear gaps, limited solid colors, and short readable lettering. Make a simpler companion design for caps or small chest placements.

Watch for

Thread cannot reproduce every pixel. Tiny text, hairlines, dense textures, and photographic gradients may need simplification. Cap seams and item construction can affect placement.

Tell your collaborator

Develop flat artwork for embroidery on [item and placement] at approximately [width]. Use substantial shapes, clear spaces, solid colors, and readable lettering. Simplify [details]. Avoid tiny decorative text, hairlines, photographic shading, and simulated stitches. This is a design for RT to review and digitize, not a machine-ready stitch file.

Before production

RT reviews the material, usable area, stitch size, and digitizing. A PNG, SVG, or picture of embroidery is not an embroidery program; an existing stitch file may also need adjustment for another item or size.

Cut vinyl / glitter

While creating

Build clear, substantial shapes with manageable gaps and a deliberate number of material colors. Plan real glitter or metallic material with RT.

Watch for

Tiny loose pieces are difficult to cut and remove from the surrounding material. Blended photographic colors and a drawn glitter texture do not become physical glitter vinyl.

Tell your collaborator

Develop a simple cut-vinyl design for [item] at [width], using [number] material colors. Use clear, substantial shapes and readable lettering. Avoid shading, gradients, tiny loose dots, and complex distressed texture. Show flat artwork, not a product mockup. The intended physical finish is [plain / glitter / metallic, to confirm with RT].

Before production

Cutting needs suitable vector paths. RT confirms material, detail, layers, and any tracing or rebuilding required.

Laser engraving

While creating

Identify the actual material, finish, shape, and engraving area. For a simple logo, use strong contrast and clear shapes. For a photograph, keep the best original and ask RT about photo preparation.

Watch for

Full-color artwork does not mean full-color engraving. Fine shading, tiny detail, and simulated wood or metal effects may not translate to the real surface. Do not assume every engraving needs vectors.

Tell your collaborator

Help plan engraving artwork for [material/item], within [width and height]. The subject is [logo / text / photograph]. Develop a clear design without simulated material texture or a staged product. Identify details that may be lost at this size. Ask what RT needs before deciding whether to prepare vector outlines, solid shapes, or a raster photograph.

Before production

RT confirms raster versus vector preparation and how the material will reproduce the design. Cut lines need suitable paths; photographs can require a different preparation workflow.

Sublimation / specialty products

While creating

Start with the exact product and its decoration template when available. Plan the shape, orientation, wrap, seams, and space for important content.

Watch for

A rectangular image may not fit a tapered, curved, or wraparound area. Product base color and coating affect results. White areas may rely on the product surface; confirm with RT.

Tell your collaborator

Plan artwork for [specific product] using [template or confirmed decoration area]. Keep important text and details away from seams, handles, joins, and edges as appropriate. Create the artwork alone, separate from any product preview. Ask RT to confirm the template, base color, material, and any bleed or safe-area requirements before finalizing.

Before production

RT confirms the blank, coating, template, dimensions, printable area, and export. Do not mirror artwork or add bleed unless RT requests it.

View RT’s artwork requirements →

What must stay exact?

Identify logos, names, faces, vehicles, mascots, and other details that must remain accurate. Say whether a reference is inspiration or something that must match. Keep original photos and logos; generated versions can change important details.

For an existing logo, create supporting artwork around it and add the original logo afterward when possible. Describe any real glitter, metallic, raised, or engraved finish separately—a picture of the effect does not specify the physical finish.

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Before creating: plan for future wording and matching items.

If you will need new names or slogans later, choose an established font and apply the actual font as editable text. Record its exact family, style, source, spacing and effects. Generated lettering may be a drawing rather than a reusable font.

Keep approved visual examples, colors and original logos or mascots together. Say what must stay exact and what may vary. Plan simpler companion artwork for small placements.

Fonts, custom lettering & a prompt to try → · Build a reusable creative reference →

Need a different way forward? Explore detailed refinement guidance →

Stage 02 / Create & refine

Let your collaborator help with the prompt.

Do this nextCopy the planning prompt, fill in what you know, and talk through the missing details. Create and refine the artwork by itself.

Describe the idea in your own words. Ask questions before asking for an image. Copy a starting point below, replace the brackets, and build from there.

Begin with a plan

Help me turn my idea into a clear artwork prompt before creating any images. I’m making [item] in [color/material], with the design on [placement] at approximately [width]. The method is [method, or unsure]. My idea is [describe it]. I will need [one design / matching designs / different names]. Ask me important missing questions, then summarize the plan and write an improved prompt for me to review. Identify anything Rocket Tees should confirm. Start with the artwork by itself; we’ll create a product mockup after the master artwork is approved.

Prompt: create a clean master image

Using our agreed plan, create the complete artwork by itself, viewed straight on, with space around every edge. No shirt, person, product, fabric folds, staged scene, or simulated embroidery. Use [colors] for [item color], with [transparent background / intentional background]. Keep [exact elements] unchanged. Use clear shapes and detail suitable for [method and size]. Tell me which requested file properties you can actually provide and which need another preparation step.

Prompt: workshop a revision

Here is my best saved version. Keep [elements] unchanged. I like [details] because [reason]. Change only [specific change]. Before generating, explain your proposed adjustment and anything it may affect. Let’s preserve the approved version separately.

Pause before another generation: ask “What might become difficult to reproduce at this size?” Use the answer to prepare questions for RT. Your collaborator’s review is a starting point; RT confirms production suitability.

Refine one decision at a time.

Explain what you like and what should change: “Keep the illustration, remove the outer border, and make the lettering readable at three inches wide.” Preserve your best version before editing. Check the result rather than relying on an assurance that it was fixed.

Keep the parts you like while editing → · Ways forward when the conversation loops →

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Stage 03 / Check & save the master

Approve, save, and protect the master.

Do this nextCheck the standalone artwork and actual file quality. Save an approved master before final product previews.

Your master is the approved artwork by itself. Keep the highest-quality original and any editable source. A product mockup is a separate preview.

  1. Check the design at the intended size. Read every name, date and number. Inspect important details, layout, shapes and colors.
  2. Check the real file. Confirm sufficient pixel dimensions or suitable vector artwork, complete edges and genuine transparency where needed. View it over light and dark backgrounds. Keep intentional white or black printed areas.
  3. Save the approved master separately. For example, TeamName_Back_MASTER_v03.png. “Locked” means preserving that file unchanged; a prompt alone cannot guarantee this.
  4. Keep previews separate. For example, TeamName_Shirt_MOCKUP_v03.jpg. If the artwork changes, save a new master and update related previews.

File labels do not verify quality. “300 DPI,” “HD,” “vector style” and “print-ready” are not checks of actual file contents. RT still reviews suitability for the process, product and final production proof.

Copy a prompt: confirm the approved master

Before we create any mockups, summarize the approved wording, colors, layout, proportions, and elements we must preserve. Identify any unresolved artwork or file-preparation issue. Do not generate a new image. I will save the approved artwork separately as the master, and all future previews should reference that file.

Compare versions and check your result → · Understand size, resolution & enlargement → · Check transparency and edges →

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Stage 04 / After the master is approved

Now see it on the product.

An early rough preview can help explore placement or contrast. Keep it separate as a concept; finalize and save the standalone master before making final product previews. A mockup must never be your only artwork file.

Do this nextAttach the approved master and describe the product and placement. Keep that master unchanged and compare the preview against it.

Attach the approved master and describe the actual product, color, placement, and intended decoration size. Keep the master file separate and unchanged.

A conceptual mockup helps communicate an idea. Compare it with the master: image editing can change lettering, proportions, small details, or color. For exact placement, use the original asset in a layout or ask RT to prepare the production proof.

Copy a prompt: preview the approved artwork

Use the attached approved master to create a conceptual preview on [product/style/color], at [placement and approximate decoration size]. Preserve the artwork, spelling, proportions, and colors as closely as possible. Do not redesign it or add new elements. Keep the original master separate. If you cannot apply the artwork without changing it, explain that limitation before proceeding. This is a concept preview; RT will confirm the final production proof.

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Understand SVG files, tracing and vector options in more detail →

Stage 05 / Prepare & send

Using Canva? Keep it editable.

Canva can help combine artwork, apply real fonts, and arrange a layout. Keep the editable design as well as the final download.

Canva setup & download checklist
  1. Set the intended size. Ask RT about the decoration area before designing a wrap, patch, or unusually shaped item.
  2. Use the best original images. Small web images remain limited even on a larger canvas.
  3. Add changeable wording as text. Save the exact font names and styles.
  4. Keep product previews separate. Download the design itself for production.
  5. Choose the export with RT. Transparent PNG, SVG, and PDF serve different needs. Some options depend on your Canva account.
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Stage 05 / Your handoff

Send the pieces that help us help you.

Do this nextSend the master artwork, mockup, exact wording, and project details. Tell RT which version is final and what still needs preparation.

  • The original artwork download and any editable source you have.
  • The mockup separately, labeled as a preview.
  • The item, color, quantity, placement, and intended decoration size.
  • Exact wording, font details, and approved references.
  • A clearly identified final version and anything you still need help preparing.

Check every name, date, number, edge, and important detail in the final download. Tell us which areas should be transparent and which colors should be reproduced.

You don’t have to solve every artwork problem yourself. These steps help preserve your idea and give us a better place to begin.

Let’s make something of it → Review production requirements↑ Back to the five stages