Custom Art Within Numbers Best Practice


Incorporating custom art within numbers is a distinctive way to personalise your garments. At Reform Clothing, we're dedicated to ensuring that your designs not only meet but exceed expectations. To achieve this, we've compiled a comprehensive guide to best practices for creating custom art within numbers, considering various application methods.

Example: Custom art within the year '25 created for use as a Back Decoration.

Artwork within Numbers Example

Understanding the Challenges

Before diving into the solutions, it's essential to understand the common challenges faced:

  • Art Resolution and Format: Often, we receive art that's either of low resolution or a photo of a hand-drawn piece. Such formats might not translate well onto garments.

  • Fitting Art Within Numbers: Some symbols or elements might not fit seamlessly within the number, leading to multiple editing rounds.

  • Proportionality of Numbers: Hand-drawn numbers can sometimes appear disproportionate or skewed, affecting the garment's overall look and our ability to embroider the numbers onto your custom apparel.

Numbered Artwork Designs - Img 1

Best Practices for Designing Custom Art Within Numbers

  1. Opt for Digital Format:

    1. Creating the art in a digital format ensures clarity, precision, and the best possible rendition on the garment.

    2. If a digital version isn't available, ensure the artwork is coloured using paint (as opposed to pencils, crayons). This is crucial as painted art can be vectorised with solid colours, especially important for embroidery applications where precision and clarity are paramount.

  2. Use Provided Templates:

    1. We will provide template options showcasing years for example "24", "25", and "26" in various font styles. These templates will feature masking capabilities, allowing users to position their digital art seamlessly within the numbers. Once satisfied, the design can be saved as a PNG file and uploaded directly via the Design Lab.

    2. Choose the format that suits you best and get started: Download the template with an included video guide now in .PSD or .AI

  3. Consider the Number's Shape:

    1. Always design with the flow and shape of the numbers in mind. This foresight ensures a smoother integration of the art within the number.

    2. Use the template provided by the Reform team to ensure that numbers are proportionate and the art fits perfectly within.

  4. High Resolution is Key:

    1. Always ensure that the artwork's resolution is high. This guarantees clarity and a sharp appearance on the garment.

    2. Refer to our Upload Logo/Graphics guidelines for more details on resolution requirements. We highly recommend using the template provided.

  5. Understand Application Types: Depending on the garment style choice, your design could be realized through different methods:

    1. Embroidery: This method offers a premium finish, ideal for detailed smaller designs. When designing for embroidery, ensure that your design elements are bold and not too intricate, as they'll be stitched onto the garment. Note that embroidery can only support up to 8 colours, so ensure your design does not exceed this limit.

    2. Heat Transfer Printing: This method is versatile and can capture detailed designs. Ensure your design is clear and doesn't have too many minute details, as they'll be printed directly onto the garment.

    3. Sublimation: Perfect for large, vibrant and intricate designs. When designing for sublimation, ensure your design elements are clear and distinct, as the dye will be infused directly into the fabric.

  6. Consult with Our Design Team:

    1. Our experienced design team is here to assist. Have questions or need expert advice? Contact our design team today.


At Reform Clothing, we believe that every design is more than just a pattern; it's a narrative. Your custom art within numbers is not just a design, but a reflection of your vision, creativity, and identity. By adhering to these best practices, you're not only ensuring a design that stands out but also one that resonates and endures. Ready to get started? Download your preferred templates now in .PSD or .AI


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