How to Use Mockups

Whether you’re working with downloadable PSD files or prefer the speed of online generators, these guides will help you create professional mockups in no time.

Using PSD Mockups (with Photoshop)

PSD mockups offer maximum flexibility and control. They typically use Smart Objects in Adobe Photoshop for easy design integration. Here’s how:

Download & Unzip

First, download the PSD mockup file. If it comes in a .zip archive, you’ll need to extract its contents to a folder on your computer.

Open in Photoshop

Launch Adobe Photoshop (or a compatible editor like Photopea.com) and open the extracted .psd file (File > Open).

Locate the Smart Object Layer

In the Layers panel (usually on the right, or toggle via Window > Layers), look for a layer specifically designated for your design. Common names include:

“Your Design Here”
“Place Artwork”
“Double Click to Edit”
“Smart Object”

This layer will have a small icon on its thumbnail indicating it’s a Smart Object.

Edit the Smart Object

Double-click directly on the Smart Object layer’s thumbnail (the small preview image, not the layer name). This action will open the Smart Object’s contents in a new document tab, typically a .psb file.

Place Your Design

Inside this new .psb document, you might see a placeholder design. You can hide or delete this placeholder layer. Then, place your own design into this document:

Go to File > Place Embedded… and select your design file (e.g., a .png with a transparent background, .jpg, or Illustrator .ai file).
Alternatively, drag and drop your design file from your computer directly into the .psb document window.

Resize (hold Shift to maintain proportions) and position your design to fit the canvas of the Smart Object as desired. Press Enter or click the checkmark in the options bar to confirm the placement.

Save the Smart Object

Once your design is perfectly placed within the .psb document, you MUST save this Smart Object file. Go to File > Save (or press Ctrl+S on Windows / Cmd+S on Mac). After saving, you can close this .psb tab.

View Updated Mockup

Switch back to your original main mockup .psd file. You should now see your design automatically updated and seamlessly integrated into the mockup scene, complete with any perspective, warping, or effects applied by the mockup.

Customize & Export

Many mockups offer additional customization layers for things like product color, background, shadows, and highlights. Explore these to fine-tune the look. Once you’re satisfied, export your final mockup image: Go to File > Export > Export As… (or Save for Web (Legacy)… for older Photoshop versions) and choose .jpg or .png format.

Need Help with Your PSD Mockup?

Struggling with Photoshop or don’t have the software? If you find it challenging to place your artwork into a PSD mockup file, our expert team can help! We offer a service to professionally insert your design into any PSD mockup, ensuring a perfect result.

Get PSD Mockup Assistance

Using Online Mockup Generators

Online mockup generators are perfect for quick results directly in your web browser, no software installation required. Here’s a general workflow:

Choose Your Mockup

Browse our collection of online mockup templates. For example, you can start with our Black Girl T-Shirt Mockup or explore our Online Mockup Generator.

Upload Your Design

On the mockup generator page, look for an “Upload Image,” “Add Your Design,” or a similar button. Some tools also support dragging and dropping your design file (usually .png or .jpg) onto a designated area.

Adjust & Position

Once uploaded, most online tools provide controls to resize, rotate, and move your design on the mockup. Use these to get the perfect placement and scale for your artwork on the product.

Customize Mockup Options

Many online generators allow further customization. You might be able to change the product color, select a different background, or adjust other scene elements. Explore all available options to tailor the mockup.

Preview Your Creation

The tool will typically show you a live preview. Review it carefully to ensure everything looks exactly as you want.

Download Your Mockup

When you’re happy, find the “Download” or “Export” button. Your completed mockup image will usually be saved as a high-quality .jpg or .png file.

Try Our Online Mockup Generator