Overview 3 of 5
What is it used for?
PNG is used for both digital applications and physical-production workflows.
Digital uses
Common digital uses include:
- Website graphics
- Interface assets
- Screenshots
- Logos
- Digital illustrations
- Transparent graphics
- Product mockups
- Social media graphics
- Digital downloads
- Image overlays
Design and artwork exchange
PNG may be used as:
- A finished raster export
- A design proof
- A client preview
- A production derivative
- A handoff file
- A supporting asset
PNG should not automatically replace the editable source file because it does not inherently preserve editable layers, vector paths, text objects, or other native design structures.
Physical product production
PNG may be used as artwork input for compatible workflows involving:
- Apparel graphics
- Stickers
- Labels
- Decals
- Mugs
- Tumblers
- Ornaments
- Plaques
- Printed cards
- Packaging inserts
- Laser-engraved products
Examples by Production Method
| Production Method | Possible PNG Use |
|---|---|
| DTF | Transparent raster artwork |
| DTG | Raster garment artwork |
| Sublimation | Raster artwork for printing and transfer |
| UV Printing | Raster artwork input where supported |
| Print-and-Cut | Printed raster artwork combined with cut-path information |
| Laser Engraving | Raster image used for engraving where supported |
| Inkjet Printing | General image input |
The exact format, resolution, profile, transparency, or other requirements remain workflow-specific.
Uses where PNG may not be appropriate
PNG is generally not the best choice when the workflow specifically requires:
- Indefinitely scalable vector artwork
- Editable layers or text
- Native vector paths
- CMYK-oriented prepress exchange
- Multi-page documents
- Embroidery stitch data
- 3D geometry
- CNC toolpaths
- Direct machine-control instructions