Getting Started
What is the Ampersand Shirt Generator?
The Ampersand Shirt Generator is a free online tool that allows you to create custom t-shirt designs in the popular ampersand style. Simply input 4-7 words or names, customize the colors, spacing, and font size, then export a high-resolution PNG file ready for printing on t-shirts, hoodies, or other merchandise.
How do I use the generator?
Using the generator is simple:
- Enter 4-7 words or names in the input fields
- Adjust text color and background color (or keep it transparent)
- Fine-tune line spacing and font size using the sliders
- Preview your design in real-time on the right side
- Click one of the export buttons (SM, MD, LG, or XL) to download your design
Is it really free?
Yes! The Ampersand Shirt Generator is completely free to use. There are no hidden costs, subscriptions, or watermarks on your designs. Create as many designs as you want and download them all for free.
Design Customization
How many items can I add?
You can add between 4 and 7 items to your design. The first four fields are required, and the last three are optional. The canvas automatically adjusts to accommodate the number of items you add.
Can I change the font?
The generator uses Helvetica Bold font, which is the classic choice for ampersand-style designs. This ensures your design has that authentic, professional look. While you can't change the font family, you can adjust the font size using the slider in the "Spacing & Size" section.
What does line spacing do?
Line spacing controls the vertical distance between each word in your design. Lower values create a more compact, stacked look, while higher values spread the words out more. The default is 0.8, but you can adjust it from 0.5 to 1.5 to find the perfect spacing for your design.
Can I use a transparent background?
Yes! By default, the background is transparent, which is ideal for printing on colored shirts. If you want a solid background color, simply uncheck the "Transparent" checkbox and select your desired background color.
What colors should I use for my design?
This depends on your shirt color and personal preference. For light-colored shirts, use dark text (black or dark colors). For dark-colored shirts, use light text (white or light colors). Keep the background transparent for best results. High contrast between text and shirt color ensures your design is readable and eye-catching.
Exporting & File Sizes
What do SM, MD, LG, and XL mean?
These are the export sizes for your design:
- SM (Small): 1500x1500px - Good for web use or small prints
- MD (Medium): 2000x2000px - Standard print quality
- LG (Large): 3000x3000px - High-quality prints (recommended)
- XL (Extra Large): 4500x4500px - Maximum quality for professional printing
What size should I use for printing t-shirts?
For most t-shirt printing services, we recommend using the LG (3000x3000px) or XL (4500x4500px) export option. These sizes provide excellent print quality and are accepted by virtually all print-on-demand services and professional printers. The larger size ensures your design looks crisp and professional on the final product.
What file format does it export?
The generator exports your design as a PNG file. PNG is the ideal format for print-on-demand services and professional printers because it supports transparent backgrounds and maintains high image quality without compression artifacts.
Why does the canvas change height?
The canvas automatically adjusts its height based on the number of items and your spacing settings. This ensures your design has consistent top and bottom padding (100px) while eliminating excess white space. The width remains constant, but the height expands to fit your content perfectly.
Printing Your Design
Can I print this design on a t-shirt?
Absolutely! That's what the generator is designed for. Once you export your design, you can upload it to any print-on-demand service (like Printful, Printify, Custom Ink, or Redbubble) or send it to your local screen printer. Make sure to use the LG or XL size for best print quality.
What print-on-demand services work with these designs?
Our designs work with all major print-on-demand platforms including:
- Printful
- Printify
- TeeSpring (Spring)
- Redbubble
- Custom Ink
- Zazzle
- Spreadshirt
- And many more!
Can I sell shirts with designs I create?
Yes! You have full rights to use the designs you create with our generator for personal or commercial purposes. You can sell t-shirts, create merchandise for your team, band, or business, or use them for personal gifts. The designs you create are yours to use as you wish.
What shirt colors work best?
This depends on your text color choice. Black text works beautifully on white, cream, light gray, or any light-colored shirts. White text looks stunning on black, navy, forest green, or any dark-colored shirts. For the most versatile design, create two versions - one with white text and one with black text.
Design Ideas & Inspiration
Can I use this for things other than t-shirts?
Definitely! While designed for t-shirts, your ampersand designs work great on:
- Hoodies and sweatshirts
- Tote bags
- Posters and wall art
- Coffee mugs
- Phone cases
- Stickers
- Canvas prints
- Pillows
Technical Issues
My design isn't showing up. What should I do?
Try these troubleshooting steps:
- Make sure you've entered at least one word in the input fields
- Refresh your browser page
- Clear your browser cache
- Try a different browser (Chrome, Firefox, Safari, or Edge)
- Check that JavaScript is enabled in your browser
The export isn't working. Help!
If your design won't export, try these solutions:
- Make sure you have at least one word entered
- Check your browser's download settings and permissions
- Try a smaller export size first (SM or MD)
- Disable any browser extensions that might block downloads
- Try a different browser
Does this work on mobile devices?
Yes! The Ampersand Shirt Generator works on all devices including smartphones and tablets. The interface is responsive and adapts to your screen size. However, for the best experience and easier fine-tuning of your design, we recommend using a desktop or laptop computer.
Can I save my design and come back to it later?
Currently, the generator doesn't save your designs automatically. We recommend taking a screenshot or writing down your settings (text, colors, spacing, font size) if you want to recreate a design later. You can also export your design and save the PNG file for reference.
Still Have Questions?
How can I contact support?
If you have additional questions or need help with the generator, feel free to reach out through our contact form or check out our blog for tutorials and design inspiration. We're always happy to help you create the perfect ampersand design!