Using AI Tools to Create Custom Designs
What is AI Image Generation?
AI image generators create original images from text descriptions (“prompts”). You type what you want, and the AI generates it. Popular tools include DALL-E, Midjourney, Stable Diffusion, and Adobe Firefly.
Can You Print AI-Generated Images?
Short Answer
Usually yes, but check the specific tool’s terms.
Tool-by-Tool Summary
| Tool | Commercial Use | Print-on-Demand |
|---|---|---|
| DALL-E (ChatGPT Plus) | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Midjourney (Paid Plans) | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Stable Diffusion | ✅ Yes (open source) | ✅ Yes |
| Adobe Firefly | ✅ Yes (paid plans) | ✅ Yes |
| Canva AI | ⚠️ Check licence | ⚠️ Check terms |
| Free/Unknown tools | ⚠️ Verify first | ⚠️ Risky |
Getting Good Results for Print
Resolution Matters
Most AI tools output at 1024×1024 or similar. For printing:
| Print Size | Minimum AI Output |
|---|---|
| 10cm × 10cm | 1024×1024 OK |
| 20cm × 20cm | Upscale needed |
| 30cm × 40cm | Definitely upscale |
Upscaling AI Images
Free tools to increase resolution:
- Upscayl – Free, desktop app
- Real-ESRGAN – Free online
- BigJPG – Simple web tool
- Built-in options in Midjourney or DALL-E
Writing Good Prompts for Print
Be Specific About Style
Instead of: “a cat”
Try: “a cat, vector illustration, flat design, bold colours, clean lines”
Mention Print-Friendly Terms
- “Vector style”
- “Flat design”
- “Bold lines”
- “High contrast”
- “Simple shapes”
- “T-shirt design” or “Print-ready”
Specify Background
- “White background” (easy to remove)
- “Solid colour background”
- “No background”
Common AI Image Issues
Problem: Image has text/words
Fix: Use image editing to remove or replace text, or prompt “no text” or “without words”.
Problem: Weird artifacts/distortions
Fix: Regenerate, or edit out problems in Photoshop/Canva/Photopea.
Problem: Too low resolution
Fix: Use upscaling tools (see above).
Problem: Background isn’t clean
Fix: Use background removal tools like remove.bg or Canva.
Problem: Copyrighted-looking characters
Fix: Don’t use them. If it looks like Mickey Mouse, it’s a legal risk.
Preparing AI Images for Upload: Workflow
- Generate your image with a good prompt
- Review for issues (artifacts, unwanted elements, text)
- Upscale if needed for your print size
- Remove background if you want transparency
- Save as PNG (for transparency) or JPG
- Upload to CustomPrintz design tool
- Preview the mockup before ordering
Legal Considerations
What You Own
Most AI tools grant you rights to use images you generate (on paid plans).
What You Don’t Own
You typically can’t claim exclusive copyright, and the AI model’s training data isn’t yours.
Our Requirements
When you upload an AI-generated design, you confirm:
- You generated it using a tool that allows commercial use
- It doesn’t infringe existing copyrights
- You have the right to print it on products for sale
Tips for Great AI Print Designs
- Generate many, pick few: Create 10+ variations, choose the best.
- Simple prints better: Bold, simple designs look best on products.
- Check at 100%: Zoom in to spot issues before ordering.
- Test with samples: Order one before bulk ordering.
- Keep prompts saved: Record what worked for future designs.
Questions?
Need help with AI-generated designs?
Email: contact@customprintz.shop
Create with AI, print with confidence.
CustomPrintz.shop