Delete Background and Vectorize Midjourney Images with Free AI Tools for PoD (Print On Demand)

Introduction

Artificial Intelligence image generators, like Midjourney, create stunning visuals suitable for merchandise and books that can be sold on platforms like Amazon, Redbubble, and Spreadshirt. However, there are two significant challenges when using Midjourney images for Print on Demand (PoD):

Lack of Transparent Background: The images produced do not come with transparent backgrounds, making it difficult to use them directly on colorful merch or shirt designs.
Low Resolution: The images are typically around 1000 pixels by 1000 pixels at 72 DPI. For high-quality merchandise, you need images that are 4000 to 5000 pixels wide at 300 DPI.

In this article, I'll show you how to effectively remove the background and vectorize Midjourney images using free tools. We will utilize Clipping Magic to remove backgrounds and Vectorizer.ai to convert the images into vector format. Finally, we'll use Inkscape to ensure that the exported image meets the proper size and resolution requirements for PoD sites.

Step 1: Generating and Preparing Your Midjourney Image

A prompt for Midjourney to generate T-shirt designs usually targets vector artwork, which features sharp lines and flat colors. It’s beneficial to include specifications like "vivid colors" and a "white background" to facilitate background removal. Here's a typical prompt example:

/imagine prompt: vector artwork, vivid colors, white background, kawaii style, --ar 4:5 --niji5

After generating several images, select your favorite and upscale it for better quality. Download the image, which typically will lack a transparent background.

Step 2: Removing the Background

Visit Clipping Magic to remove the background of your image. This tool usually does a fair job initially, but you might need to make some manual adjustments using green (to keep) and red (to remove) markers to ensure that all desired elements remain, such as whites in the eyes.

Once you’ve adjusted the image to your satisfaction, download the preview. Although the resolution may not be suitable for printing, it will serve as input for the next tool.

Step 3: Vectorizing the Image

Next, open Vectorizer.ai. Upload your background-free image to this platform, which will convert it into a vector format. Once processed, you will have a high-quality, scalable vector graphic ready for use.

Select SVG format for download, which is compatible with many vector graphic editing tools.

Step 4: Using Inkscape for Final Adjustments

Open the SVG file in Inkscape. You can make additional modifications here, such as adjusting colors or removing unwanted elements. To set up your canvas for PoD, create a custom document size targeting 4500 by 5400 pixels at 300 DPI, ensuring dimensional accuracy for merchandising.

Drag your vector graphics into the document and use the grouping function (Command + G) to keep elements together. Lastly, accidentally scaling in Inkscape is done using the Option (or Alt) key, rather than the Shift key as in most design software.

Exporting the Final Image

Navigate to the export option in Inkscape to save your design as a PNG. Ensure that you set the DPI to 300 when exporting to maintain print quality.

After exporting, you will have a high-resolution image that is ready for print on demand!

Keyword

AI Image Generators
Midjourney
Transparent Background
Low Resolution
Clipping Magic
Vectorizer.ai
Inkscape
Print on Demand
Merchandising

FAQ

What AI tools can I use to remove the background from images? You can use Clipping Magic to effectively remove backgrounds from images obtained from Midjourney.
How do I vectorize images from Midjourney? Use Vectorizer.ai to convert your image into a vector format, ensuring it can be scaled without losing quality.
What resolution is needed for Print on Demand merchandise? A size of 4000 to 5000 pixels wide at 300 DPI is recommended for high-quality merchandise printing.
Can I use free tools for editing my images? Yes, tools like Clipping Magic, Vectorizer.ai, and Inkscape are free and can help you edit your images without needing a subscription.
Is it necessary to use vector artwork for T-shirt designs? Yes, vector artwork is crucial for T-shirts as it allows for scaling without pixelation, maintaining quality in printed designs.