How Do I Upload an Image and Select Multicolor Printing?

Want to print a photograph or full-color graphic on a custom T-shirt? You can upload your own image in Bolt Printing's Design Studio, then choose how you want it printed.

For full-color artwork, photographs, and images with shading or tonal variations, the important step is selecting the rainbow option labeled Multi-color. Follow the instructions below to upload your image, check its print-color settings, and prepare your design for ordering.

When Should I Choose Multi-Color?

Choose Multi-color when your uploaded artwork contains details that cannot be represented accurately using only a few solid ink colors.

Multi-color should be selected for:

• Full-color photographs with many colors and tones.
• Black-and-white photographs that contain different shades of black, gray, and white.
• Artwork with shading, including lighter and darker variations of the same color.
• Gradients or tonal variations where one color gradually changes from light to dark or blends into another color.
• Detailed photographic artwork where preserving the image's visual depth and variations is important.

A simple logo designed to print in one or two solid colors usually does not require Multi-color. In that case, select the individual ink colors you want used for printing.

How Do I Upload an Image and Select Multi-Color?

Step 1: Open the Design Studio and Select Upload

Open the product you want to customize in the Design Studio. Select the available print location where you want your image to appear.

On a computer, select Upload from the tools on the left. On a phone, select Upload from the bottom toolbar.

Need help switching print locations? See our guide to selecting the back and sleeves in the Design Studio.

Step 2: Choose Your Image and Let It Finish Processing

Use the file selector to choose the photograph or artwork saved on your computer or device. Supported formats include PNG, JPG, GIF, SVG, PDF, AI, and EPS.

Allow the upload to finish processing before continuing. The Design Studio detects colors in the image and makes an initial ink selection.

Once the artwork appears, select it to open its editing panel and review the print-color options.

Step 3: Select the Rainbow Multi-Color Option

In your uploaded image's print-color settings, find the rainbow swatch labeled Multi-color.

Select Multi-color when your image contains full color, photographic details, shading, gradients, or tonal variations.

This includes black-and-white photographs. A black-and-white photo can contain many different gray values and shading levels even though it appears to use only black and white.

The same applies to colored artwork. If one color contains several lighter and darker shades, choose Multi-color instead of selecting only the main solid color.

For photographs or images containing many colors, the Design Studio may select Multi-color automatically. If it is already selected, confirm the selection before moving on.

Step 4: Position Your Image and Review the Design

Move and resize your image within the outlined printing area. Make sure it is on the correct side of the garment and positioned where you want it.

Before continuing, check the image, placement, and Multi-color selection together. These are separate parts of setting up your design.

To explain a special request, use Add Design Note. For example: "Please print the uploaded photograph in full color. I have selected Multi-color."

Step 5: Save Your Design or Continue Ordering

When your image and print settings are ready, choose the appropriate next step:

• Starting a new order: Select Buy Now, enter your sizes and quantities, and follow the prompts to add your product to the cart.
• Saving for later: Choose Save & Share and complete the save form. On mobile, this option is available in the three-dot menu.
• Editing an existing cart item: If you opened the item through Edit Design, choose Save Changes to update that item.

Why Can't I Find the Multi-Color Option?

Multi-color is available only on print locations that support the product's full color allowance. Print areas with a smaller color limit, such as restricted sleeve locations, do not show the rainbow option.

Check which print location you have selected. If you are working on a restricted sleeve area, check the available front or back printing options for your product instead.

If you still cannot find Multi-color, contact our team with the product code and the location you want to customize.

Does Selecting Multi-Color Change My Price?

Multi-color is priced as full-color printing, not as one individual ink color. Although it appears as a single rainbow option, it uses the full color allowance for that print location.

Your garment, quantity, decorated locations, and print-color selections affect the price. Review the updated order total after confirming your artwork settings.

Will I Review My Full-Color Artwork Before Printing?

Yes. After you place your order, a production artist reviews your artwork and prepares a digital proof for your approval before production.

Check that your proof shows the correct image, intended colors and shading, placement, and design dimensions. If it does not reflect the artwork you intended, request changes before approving.