Use Our DTF Transfer Size Chart to Avoid Common Printing Mistakes
At American discount and retail stores that specialize in apparel with manufacturing flaws, incorrect DTF transfers are common. The garments may look fine on the racks and shelves; however, trying them on is a different story. You can avoid these situations with the right DTF transfer size chart and a few printing tips.
Transfer Size Chart for Standard Shirts
This DTF transfer size chart is for t-shirts and polo garments.
| Garment | Placement Location | Recommended DTF Size (W x H) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard T-Shirt/Polo | Full Front | 10.0" – 11.5" W 11.0" – 13.0" H | This is the standard "go-to" size for most designs. |
| Standard T-Shirt/Polo | Full Back | 11.0" – 12.5" W 14.0" – 16.0" H | Maximum size for standard prints. |
| Standard T-Shirt/Polo | Left Chest | 3.5" – 4.0" W 3.5" – 4.0" H | The logo placement is usually aligned with the shirt breast pocket. |
| Standard T-Shirt/Polo | Back Collar (Tag) | 2.5" – 3.0" W 2.5" – 3.0" H | This replaces the neck label, and it usually features branding, size, and garment care information. |
| Standard T-Shirt/Polo | Short Sleeve | 3.0" – 4.0" W 2.0" – 3.5" H | It is often placed one or two inches above the hem. |
| Standard T-Shirt/Polo | Long Sleeve (Linear) | 2.0" W 14.0" – 18.0" H | This is for linear prints down the arm, like text, logos, and illustration. |
| Tank Top | Full Front | 9.0" – 10.0" W 12.0" – 14.0" H | Try using narrow prints to avoid awkward placement near the armhole curvature. |
Transfer Size Chart for Oversize Shirts
This DTF transfer by size chart is for oversized hoodies and t-shirts.
| Garment | Placement Location | Recommended DTF Size (W x H) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oversize T-shirt | Full Front | 12.5" – 14.0" W 14.0" – 16.0" H | The increased size is to maintain balance on larger shirt areas. |
| Oversize T-shirt | Full Back | 13.0" – 15.0" W 15.0" – 18.0" H | This is the maximum print area for the largest garments. |
| Oversize Hoodie | Full Front | 11.0" – 12.5" W 11.0" – 13.0" H | You should position it above the pocket pouch. |
| Oversize Hoodie | Full Back | 13.0" – 15.0" W 16.0" – 18.0" H | Ideal maximum size for thick hooded garments. |
| Oversize Hoodie | Left Chest | 3.5" – 4.0" W 3.5" – 4.0" H | The logo should remain legible, without overwhelming the chest area. |
| Oversize Hoodie | Front Chest | 9.0" – 10.0" W 4.0" – 5.0" H | This is for smaller graphics placed above the pocket. |
Transfer Size Chart for Youth/Kids Shirts
This chart includes baby garments.
| Garment | Placement Location | Recommended DTF Size (W x H) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Youth (XS - M) | Full Front | 8.0" – 9.0" W 9.0" – 11.0" H | Similar to a Center Chest size on an adult shirt. |
| Youth (XS - M) | Full Back | 10.0" – 11.0" W 11.0" – 13.0" H | Should be proportional to the Full Front size. |
| Youth (XS - M) | Left Chest | 2.5" – 3.0" W 2.5" – 3.0" H | Scaled down from the adult Left Chest to remain proportional. |
| Toddler (2T - 4T) | Full Front | 6.0" – 7.0" W 6.0" – 8.0" H | Must avoid touching the neckline or shoulder seams. |
| Infant/Baby (0-24M) | Full Front | 4.0" – 5.0" W 4.0" – 5.0" H | Must be tiny due to the limited garment area. |
Transfer Size Chart for Accessories
This chart is for accessories like canvas bags and caps.
| Garment | Placement Location | Recommended DTF Size (W x H) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Canvas Bag | Tote/Backpack | 9.0" W 9.0" H | Use 9"x9" as a safe square maximum. |
| Cap | Front | 3.0" – 4.0" W 2.0" – 2.5" H | Fixed by the hat panel; requires a cap heat press platen. |
| Cap | Back | 3.5" W 1.0" H | Best for text or a very small logo above the adjustment strap. |
How to Measure a Perfect Size for DTF Transfer
It comes down to determining the garment, design locations, and measuring the actual printable area. Then, refer to the DTF charts above to follow the industry standards. Using a visual mock-up is crucial before firing up the xTool DTF Apparel Printer; you want to print the final design at the right size on paper, cut it, and place it on the smallest and largest garment or accessory. A pro-tip involves pinning the paper design and modeling it; this may require more than one model for various garment sizes.
DTF Transfer Placement Guide
The charts herein are based on industry standards. To make them work for you, ensure the garments are smoothly flat and use an alignment ruler, which can be a t-square, to determine the exact placement.
With t-shirts and polos, you want to align the ruler with the collar to find the vertical center line. Use the chart measurements to guide the top of the transfer, line up the center mark, and check for centering. Generally, the top edge of the design should be placed two fingers down from the bottom of the collar.
Tips for Applying DTF Transfers
Beyond following the correct DTF sizes for shirts, you want to check your printer's heat settings according to the fabric. If you run it too hot on polyester and other synthetics, the fabric may scorch, and the dye may bleed. Eliminate moisture before transferring.
Remember that your peeling motion should be slow, smooth, and controlled. If you get stubborn edges that lift, try raising the print area. To avoid ghosting, apply a layer of heat-resistant tape before pressing.
After the initial pressing and peeling, you can cover designs with Teflon sheets or parchment paper before pressing again for 5 to 10 seconds. This helps to secure the edges and cure the adhesive.
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