Frequently asked Questions

Get the most out of your Mockups!

General Questions

What are mockups?

Mockups are great showcases for any kind of branding or design. They are pre-created image templates that make it easy to seamlessly insert your own content into. Add your logo to letterheads, app designs to displays, messages to signs or advertising to the outsides of a bus. Mockup World features a large number of clean as well as photo-realistic mockups. You’ll find something that suits your needs, guaranteed!

How does Mockup World work?

Mockup World handpicks the best free mockups that designers and agencies have put online – it works as a link directory! The site does not host any resources itself but works as a curated directory that always links back to the original item to give the creator full credit. That’s why hitting the “download” button at Mockup World will always redirect you to the original source.

Why do people offer free mockups?

Most freelance designers and agencies offer free mockups to increase their online visibility. These kinds of goodies allow for stunning free advertising! Interested? You can submit your mockup, too!

Why don’t you feature 2D or completely vectorized mockups?

Mockup World is specialized in photo-realistic resources; so mostly mockups that are based on real photos. They transport a natural image and put your content right into a specific context.

Do you offer custom mockups?

As of right now: no. But there are plenty of freelancer designers out that that will be happy to help you. You can also check platforms like Fiverr.

How can I stay in touch with Mockup World?

Please use the contact form to write in. Also: Sign up for our newsletter which won’t disappoint you, since it delivers freebies and other great design resources right to your inbox. You’ll find the signup-box at the bottom of every page. You may also follow Mockup World on Facebook and Twitter.

Using Mockups

What software do I need to work with PSD mockups?

Adobe Photoshop would be ideal, but there are other options: Graphic design software like Photopea are free and work right in your browser. Interested? Here’s a video tutorial on how to use Mockup World with Photopea.

I don’t own Photoshop. What do I do now?

Please check the answer above. And well, you always have the option to purchase Adobe Photoshop! You can also make use of freelancer platforms like Fiverr or online mockup generators like Placeit that allow you to create individual showcases in seconds – right in your browser!

Which Adobe Photoshop version do I need to use the mockups?

You will have to use Adobe Photoshop CS or later.

How do I use mockups? How do I add my own content?

You can add your own content in a few simple steps:

Open the PSD file in Adobe Photoshop (or another capable design software).
Look for the smart layer/object labeled “Replace me” or “Add content here” and double-click it.
A second image (PSB) will appear that you want to drag and drop your content into.
Save and close the PSB file.
Voilà!

There are also numerous video tutorials on how to use mockups you may want to check out. Here’s a great clip to get you started:

What’s a PSB file?

PSB stands for “Photoshop Big” and is usually the file you insert your own content into. These files basically extend your PSD file so you can add extra information to the image. You can find more on that here.

Can I use the mockups for print as well?

It depends on two things: Please make sure that the mockups come with the right license. For a good printing result please also consult with your print service if the resolution is sufficient (300 dpi is recommended).

Who can I ask for help if I got a question on a specific mockup?

Please refer to the author of the item. Most download pages also offer comment sections – so you might want to ask there.

Availability

How come that this “free” mockup needs to be paid for when I visit the linked page?

Sometimes specific mockups become very successful on the web. That’s when some designers or agencies decide to go premium with the item. Since they don’t inform Mockup World about the change, the mockup will still show up in the directory. You can help keep the catalog clean by reporting the item. Thank you!

I get a 404 error after being redirected. What now?

Alas, there’s not much you can do. The designer has probably decided to remove the item or changed its location to an online marketplace. You can help keep the catalog clean by reporting the item. Thank you!

I bought this mockup and I’m not happy with it! I want a refund. What now?

Mockup World does not sell any premium items. Please check the purchase receipt and contact the marketplace you bought the item from.

Licenses

Can I use the free mockups for private and commercial projects?

Mockup World makes sure that each item added to the collection is explicitly described by its author as freely usable in private and commercial contexts. However, sometimes the creators may change the license without informing Mockup World – so please double-check the license on the final download page before using the mockup in your projects. It is your responsibility to respect the creator’s wish!

What is CC (Creative Commons) and how does it work?

Creative Commons licenses give every person in the world a free, simple, and standardized way to grant copyright permissions for creative works. Example: Some licenses require an attribution and can be used in commercial contexts, but won’t allow derivates. Others allow full unrestricted use of an item. If you want to learn more, check out the full list of available CC licenses.

Do I have to add an attribution when I use a mockup?

It depends on the creator’s decision. Most of them don’t insist on getting credits, some require an attribution or a link back to the original source. Please check the final website where you download the item for any information on that.

Submitting Mockups

I created a stunning mockup, is there a way get featured by Mockup Word?

First of all: Awesome. And, yes! Please use the submit form to send in your item. Please make sure:

You unmistakably own the copyright for your work.
You don’t submit a hotlink for the download file directly (like using a Dropbox link), but rather link to your website or Dribbble or Behance profile where you offer additional information about the item.
You don’t use ad-serving links for downloads.

Please note: Mockup World does not feature mockups of websites that are solely specialized in offering mockups.

Do I attach my work to a license?

It is your choice, but to avoid any conflicts in the future it is strongly recommended! Make clear, what users are allowed to do with your mockup and in which contexts they may use it. The best way to do that is to choose a Creative Commons license. Here’s a full list of available CC licenses.

My mockup did not get featured on Mockup World. Why?

You were probably missing some of the requirements (see above). Additionally, Mockup World does look for a certain quality standard.