09/24/2026
We are getting a lot of AI-generated images to print these days. The tools and the work are amazing and definitely allow you to be more unique and creative. While we love seeing all the amazing artwork you bring in, that doesn't always mean itis suitable for printing.
So, we have guidelines for you to follow as you use whatever AI program you like to generate images.
AI-GENERATED ARTWORK REQUIREMENTS
Planning to have an AI-created image printed large? Please follow these requirements before creating your artwork.
AI-generated images are often created for screens, not large-format printing. An image that looks sharp on your phone may become blurry, pixelated, or distorted when enlarged.
For the best print quality, please use the following specifications.
Finished Print Size Correct Aspect Ratio Minimum Resolution Preferred Resolution
18" × 24" 3:04 2700 × 3600 px 5400 × 7200 px
24" × 36" 2:03 3600 × 5400 px 7200 × 10,800 px
24" × 48" 1:02 3600 × 7200 px 7200 × 14,400 px
36" × 48" 3:04 5400 × 7200 px 10,800 × 14,400 px
36" × 72" 1:02 5400 × 10,800 px 10,800 × 21,600 px
Minimum Recommended Resolution = approximately 150 pixels per inch at final print size.**
Preferred Resolution = 300 pixels per inch at final print size.
WHEN CREATING YOUR IMAGE WITH AI
Please follow these requirements:
1. Create the image in the same aspect ratio as your finished print.
Example: A 36" × 72" print is a 1:2 ratio**. Creating a square image and stretching it to 36" × 72" will distort the artwork.
2. Select the highest-resolution or highest-quality setting available.
If your AI program offers HD, High Resolution, Upscale, 2X, 4X, Enhance, or similar options, use them.
3. Upscale the finished AI image before submitting it for printing.
Most AI programs do not initially generate enough pixels for a large-format print.
4. Download the ORIGINAL image file.
Do not submit a screenshot, Facebook image, text-message image, or image copied from a website. These are often compressed.
5. PNG or TIFF files are preferred.
High-quality JPG/JPEG files may also be accepted. Avoid repeatedly saving a JPG, because each save can reduce image quality.
6. Do not stretch an image to make it fit another shape.
If the image was created as a square, you can't simply stretch it into a 1:2 banner without distortion.
7. For logos, lettering, phone numbers, QR codes, and other important text, vector artwork is strongly preferred.
AI-generated lettering and logos may contain errors or become distorted. Whenever possible, add important text and logos after generating the background artwork.
8. Check faces, hands, lettering, logos, and small details carefully before submitting the file.
Increasing the resolution will make an AI image sharper, but it will not correct mistakes the AI already made.
EXAMPLE AI INSTRUCTIONS
For an 18" × 24" vertical print, tell your AI image generator:
"Create this artwork in a 3:4 vertical aspect ratio. Use the highest available image quality and resolution. Compose the image so no important elements are near the edges. The finished artwork will be printed at 18 inches wide by 24 inches tall."
For a 36" × 72" vertical print, tell your AI image generator:
"Create this artwork in a 1:2 vertical aspect ratio. Use the highest available image quality and resolution. Compose the image for a tall-format large print with no important elements close to the edges. The finished artwork will be printed at 36 inches wide by 72 inches tall."
IMPORTANT
Changing the DPI number alone does NOT improve image quality.
A small 1024 × 1024 image does not become high-resolution simply by changing its setting to "300 DPI." The image must contain enough actual pixels for the finished print size.
ROE Graphics can evaluate your artwork before printing. Additional artwork preparation, rebuilding, cropping, or AI upscaling may be required for files that do not meet these specifications.
Artwork Review & File Prep
- If we can use your artwork as-is or fix it within 10 minutes, there is no charge.
- If we have to rebuild the artwork to make it print appropriately, the cost is $50 per hour of work.
