Decide what someone should see when they pick up the mug
A mug is curved, so a design can look different depending on how it is held. Start with the view that matters most. Do you want one illustration, the same artwork on both sides, two different designs or a scene that continues around the mug?
For a personal gift, think about the recipient as well as the occasion. A recognisable pet, a favourite hobby or a meaningful place can give you a stronger starting point than a crowded collection of unrelated details.
Sketch a rough layout before generating anything. Mark where the main picture belongs and where you want a name or short message. You do not need to make the sketch polished.
Generate a picture that leaves room for personalisation
Describe the subject, style, colours and arrangement. Ask for standalone artwork rather than a photograph of a finished mug. Leave names and important wording for a separate editing step so you can check and change them easily.
Try this prompt, then adapt it to your idea:
Create a cheerful illustration of a black and tan dachshund wearing a small red bandana, sitting beside a pair of muddy walking boots. Use a clean storybook style with warm colours and clearly defined shapes. Keep the dog and boots together in a compact composition. Leave clear space underneath for a name to be added later. Show only the illustration, without a mug, lettering or product photography.
Choose a version that still reads clearly when viewed small. Check paws, eyes, collars and other recognisable details before preparing the file.
AI artwork prompts to make your own
Start with the prompt for your mug option. Replace the bracketed idea, style and colours, then copy it into your preferred image-generation tool. This prepares a starting brief, not an approved print file. Nothing you type here is sent to Wotta Mug or an AI service.
Check the size yourself. The pixel references below are calculated from Wotta Mug's recorded dimensions at 300 pixels per inch and rounded to the nearest pixel. An AI tool may not honour them. Setting a resolution label does not add image detail; check the downloaded file and confirm the final template and placement with us.
White-bodied mug: a landscape artwork template
For all-white mugs and white-bodied mugs with coloured interiors and handles. Full template: 225 × 97.5 mm, including clearance. Pixel reference: 2657 × 1152 px at 300 ppi. Reserve 25 mm at each side beside the handle. This is not a claim that the whole template is printable; final placement still needs a proof.
You can also select the text and copy it manually. Add exact names, dates and business logos separately so they can be checked.
Black-bodied mug: artwork for its white panel
The black-bodied mug has one white panel, 197 × 87 mm, centred opposite the handle and wrapping around both sides. Pixel reference: 2327 × 1028 px at 300 ppi. These are panel dimensions, not confirmed safe print boundaries. Ask us to confirm margins before preparing the final file; do not use the white-mug template.
Only the white panel is the design reference. This prompt does not establish the panel's safe margins or guarantee a correctly sized AI output.
Before sending the result, check for invented details, unwanted words and soft edges. Keep the original download and use reference material you have permission to reproduce. Ask us to check your artwork with your quote.
Check the downloaded image before enlarging it
The pixel dimensions determine how much image information you have available. Changing a file's resolution label does not add detail unless the image is resampled. A common preparation target is 300 pixels per inch at the intended print size, subject to the production requirements. Adobe explains print dimensions and resolution.
Keep the original downloaded artwork. If you enlarge it, inspect the result for soft edges or altered details. Send the original reference photo separately when likeness matters.
Use the right template for your mug
Confirm the template before building a finished wrap. The white-bodied and black-bodied Wotta Mug options have different artwork areas, so do not apply one layout to both. Keep important details clear of the handle area and check placement in the final proof. See mug options and placement guidance.
Use the 3D mug preview to explore placement. It accepts PNG, JPG and WebP images. Keep your original artwork separately: the saved mock-up shows your idea, while the artwork and print placement still need checking before production.
Send the artwork with the details that matter
Include the original artwork, your preferred mug option, quantity, exact wording, delivery postcode and any required date. For a group order, supply one checked list of names and explain what changes on each mug.
Supply photos and branding you have permission to reproduce. Use the original business logo rather than asking AI to recreate it.
Before approving the proof, check:
- Names, dates and spelling against your supplied wording.
- The recognisable details in people or pets.
- Image placement and cropping from each intended view.
- Which parts of the design vary between mugs.
Get help with your mug design
You do not need to solve every artwork issue before contacting us. Send your idea and tell us whether you want help creating or preparing the design. Artwork scope and any design charges are agreed with your quote.