PNG Files Guide and FAQs

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Introduction

PNG files give you creative flexibility for all of your custom DIY, décor, and organization projects! Here’s everything you need to know to get started. Feel free to read the key notes for a quick overview or scroll down for more detailed information.

Key Notes

PNGs are versatile image files that are perfect for:
- Using in a variety of applications and programs
- Easily moving, resizing, and layering elements for custom designs
- Maintaining great image quality and clarity
PNG files often come in ZIP folders that make the images smaller so they can easily be stored or transferred across devices. Extracting the PNGs from the ZIP folder is a simple process that just means restoring it back to its original size and structure so you can use it.
PNGs can have a transparent background, which means the area around the image is see through. This makes it easier to mix and layer images to create custom designs.

Saving and Opening PNG Zip Files

Your PNG files may come in a ZIP folder to keep the files organized and easy to download.
To open a ZIP file:
- Windows: Right-click the ZIP folder and select “Extract All”, then choose where to save the files.
- Mac: Double-click the ZIP folder. It will automatically unzip to a new folder in the same location.
- Chromebook: Double-click to open it, then drag the files out to your “Downloads” or “Drive” folder.
Once unzipped, your new PNG files will be available in the folder you selected. Your PNGs are now ready to be used in your awesome projects!

How to Use PNGs in Some Common Programs

PNGs are image files that work in most programs—like digital stickers you can move, resize, and layer however you’d like!

In PowerPoint or Google Slides:

Open a blank slide deck.
Go to Insert → Image → Then choose the file location where your PNG is saved: Upload from computer OR Drive, etc.
Click on the PNG file you want and then it will appear on the slide.
Move the image by clicking anywhere on it and dragging it to the desired location on the slide.
Resize by clicking and dragging the corners.
Layer images by moving them forward/backward (Right-click → Order)

In Microsoft Word:

Go to Insert → Pictures → This Device
Choose your PNG file.
IMPORTANT! To move the image freely around the page, you must: Right-click over the image→ Wrap Text → In Front of Text
Resize and reposition the image as needed.

In Canva:

Click Create A Design or choose a template from the Templates button on the left side of the screen.
Choose the type of design you would like to create (Presentation, Poster, etc.)
Click “Uploads” in the sidebar → Upload Files → Upload Files (to select the file(s) you want to open) or Upload Folder (if you want to upload an entire folder of PNGs).
Your PNG files will appear in the left sidebar under Uploads.
Select and drag the images you want to use from Uploads into the design.
You can now reposition, resize, and layer the images as needed for your project.

How Can I Use PNGs for My Projects?

Layering and mixing various elements to create custom designs. For example:
- - Placing custom letters on banner pennants for your classroom decor
  - Mixing letters to make custom display titles for classroom areas, bulletin boards, and more!
  - Integrating and resizing your choice elements, such as cutout images, borders, and letters on a single page for easier and more efficient printing.
Scaling elements to your preferred size, so that your project has the visual proportions that are perfect for you.

FAQs: Printing For Best Quality

What printer settings should I use?
- No matter what application you are using to work with your PNG files, I always recommend the following settings for the best print quality:
  - Select “High Quality” or “Best” in your printer settings. If you don’t see these settings after you open the print dialog, try these steps:
    1. After you open the print dialog, click on “More Settings” or “Additional Settings.”
    2. Look for “Print Using System Dialogue,” which you may have to scroll to the bottom to see. Click this option.
    3. Click “More Settings” or look for “Advanced Settings” and you should be provided with options to change the color and output quality.
  - Choose “Actual Size” or “100% Scale” in print options if you want to make sure the design is printed at the scale which you created it.
  - For color printing, make sure to select “Color Printing” instead of “Grayscale.”
Which paper should I use?
- For best print quality and durability, I recommend printing on heavy paper such as cardstock or matte photo paper. Also, consider laminating items that will be reused.

FAQs: Common Issues and Solutions

How can I print double sided pages?
- If your printer supports double-sided printing, select “Double-Sided” or “Duplex” in your print settings. For manual double-sided printing:
  - Print all odd numbered pages first.
  - Flip the stack, and then print the even numbered pages on the opposite side.
Why are my prints coming out blurry?
- Ensure you’re using the highest print quality settings. For best results, download and print directly from your computer instead of using mobile devices.
- Using heavier paper, such as cardstock or matte photo paper, will give sharper more vibrant results than regular printer paper.
- While PNG files are scalable, there is a limit for quality and clarity. Make sure you are not scaling images too large.
Why doesn’t my print look like what’s on the screen?
- Differences in screen brightness, color settings, or paper type can affect print colors. Calibrate your monitor, adjust your printer’s color settings, or try a different type of paper for closer results.

FAQs: PNG File Management Tips

Can I edit these PNG files?
- PNG files on this site are not editable in regard to color and style. However, they are scalable for resizing, and I do offer a variety of color and style options for many of my designs that can be mixed and layered together.
Can I share these files with others?
- PNG files offered on this site are for personal and educational use. If you want to share, please send them a link to this website so they can download it directly.

FAQs: Mobile Device Tips

Can I download PNG files to a mobile device?
- PNG files can easily be saved to your phone’s files, Google Drive, iCloud, or other cloud storage service, like many other common file formats.

Other PNG File FAQs

Why do you offer some designs as PNG files?
- PNG files retain high resolution, ensuring crisp and clear graphics both digitally and in print.
- PNG files support transparency, making them perfect for layering onto other designs or printing on colored or textured paper.
- PNG files are widely supported across devices and software programs.
- Users can easily drag and drop PNGs into projects without needing specialized software.
- PNGs offer flexibility with resizing and cropping.
- PNGs use lossless compression to preserve image quality.
What software can I use with PNG files?
- PNG image files can be inserted into a variety of word processing, presentation, and design programs. Here are just a few popular options:
  - Microsoft Suite (Word and PowerPoint)
  - Google Workspace (Google Slides and Google Docs)
  - Adobe Suite (Photo Shop, InDesign, and Illustrator)
  - Canva
Why does my PNG file have a white background instead of transparent?
- Some older programs (like older versions of Word) do not support transparency. Make sure transparency is supported in the software you are using.
Can I print a PNG file directly?
- You can print a PNG file directly, but I recommend inserting it into a supported software program first to optimize resolution quality and sizing.