Direct-to-Film (DTF) Printing: By Size or Gang Sheet?

When diving into Direct-to-Film (DTF) printing, one crucial decision is whether to order transfers by size or in gang sheets. Each method has its pros and cons, depending on your budget, order volume, and design requirements. This guide will help you understand the differences and choose the best option for your apparel projects.

Why Choosing the Right DTF Transfer Matters

DTF transfers are loved for their flexibility, vibrant results, and affordability. However, how you order them—by size or gang sheet—can affect your costs, efficiency, and even the types of designs you can print.

Making the right choice means:

· Saving money on larger orders

· Reducing wasted transfer space

· Printing more designs per sheet

· Scaling your t-shirt business effectively

What Does “By Size” Mean in DTF Transfers?

When you buy DTF transfers by size, you pay based on the dimensions of each design. For example, a 10x10 inch transfer will have a different price than a 12x16 inch transfer.

Advantages of Ordering By Size:

· Predictable Pricing: You know exactly how much each design will cost.

· Ideal for Simple Orders: Perfect for single designs, logos, or straightforward orders.

· Beginner-Friendly: Easier for those who don’t want to manage complex layouts.

Disadvantages:

· Not Cost-Efficient for Small Designs: If you have multiple small designs, this can be expensive.

· Wasted Space: You might pay for unused DTF film space if your artwork doesn’t fill the dimensions.

Example: A small business printing one logo for team uniforms would benefit from buying DTF transfers by size.

What Is a Gang Sheet in DTF Printing?

A gang sheet is a large sheet where multiple designs are placed together, such as a 22x60-inch sheet. You maximize the sheet area by filling it with as many different graphics, logos, or artwork pieces as possible. 

Advantages of Gang Sheets:

· Cost Savings: More economical when printing multiple designs.

· Flexibility: You can mix designs of different sizes, logos, or art on one sheet.

· Less Waste: Every inch of the sheet can be used effectively.

· Great for Bulk Production: Ideal for small businesses launching new collections.

Disadvantages:

· Requires Careful Layout: Misalignment can occur if not planned properly.

· Slightly Complex for Beginners: More setup is needed compared to ordering by size.

Example: An apparel brand printing multiple t-shirt designs for a new collection would use gang sheets to maximize efficiency.

Comparing By Size vs Gang Sheet

Here’s a quick comparison to help you decide:

When to Choose By Size

· Printing a one-time custom order (like a sports team logo).

· Testing a new design with a single sample print.

· Working on small personalized gift orders.

For this option, check out Custom DTF Transfers by Size—ideal for straightforward designs where precision and simplicity matter.

When to Choose Gang Sheets

· Running an apparel business with multiple designs.

· Printing different logos or graphics for one event.

· Saving money by fitting many orders onto one sheet.

To maximize efficiency, explore DTF Gang Sheet Transfers—perfect for bulk runs and creative projects.

How to Optimize Your Choice

Whether you choose by size or gang sheets, success depends on preparation:

· Always design at 300 DPI resolution.

· Export files in PNG with a transparent background.

· Plan gang sheet layouts carefully (leave safe margins).

· For by-size transfers, fill the entire area with your design to avoid wasted space.

Common Mistakes Beginners Make

· Ordering by size for multiple designs, wasting money.

· Poor gang sheet layouts that overlap or cut designs.

· Using low-resolution files that blur when enlarged.

· Forgetting to remove white backgrounds from logos.

Avoiding these mistakes ensures your transfers come out sharp and professional.

Which Option Is Better for You?

It depends on your goals:

· Hobbyists or One-Time Prints: size is easier and predictable.

· Growing Apparel Brands: Gang sheets save more money and time.

In many cases, combining both options makes sense. Start with by size to test designs, then switch to gang sheets once you scale production.

Conclusion

Choosing between DTF transfers by size or gang sheet depends on your needs. By size is simple, predictable, and beginner-friendly, while gang sheets offer efficiency, savings, and flexibility for bulk runs.

In 2025, apparel creators who understand these options can maximize profits and minimize waste. Whether you’re testing your first design or launching a clothing line, knowing how to choose the right DTF transfer gives you the freedom to create without limits.