DTF Transfer Size Chart for Shirts, Hoodies and Hats

Getting size and placement right matters more than most people expect — a print two inches too low reads as amateur even when the artwork is good. These are the sizes we see most often.

Adult shirts — front and back

Size Typical print width Placement
Adult S–M 10–11" 3" below collar seam
Adult L–XL 11–12" 3" below collar seam
Adult 2XL+ 12–14" 3–3.5" below collar seam

Youth and toddler

Size Print width Placement
Youth S–M 7–8" 2–2.5" below collar
Youth L–XL 8–9" 2.5" below collar
Toddler 5–6" 1.5–2" below collar

Left chest logos

Standard left chest is 3–4 inches wide, positioned roughly 7–8 inches down from the shoulder seam and 4–5 inches in from the centre. A reliable trick: align the top of the logo with the bottom of the collar.

Sleeves and hats

  • Sleeve print: 2.5–3.5" wide, about 1" below the shoulder seam
  • Hat front: 2–2.5" tall on a structured cap — keep clear of seams
  • Hat side: 1.5–2" wide

Hats need a curved or cap-specific platen. A flat platen will not make even contact and the edges will lift.

Hoodies

Hoodie prints usually sit slightly smaller and higher than tee prints, because the pocket takes up the lower area. 10–11" wide, positioned to clear the pocket seam, works for most adult sizes.

How to be sure

Print your design at actual size on plain paper, cut it out and lay it on the garment. It takes two minutes and it is far cheaper than a batch pressed at the wrong scale.

Remember your file resolution

Whatever size you choose, the artwork needs to be 300 DPI at that size. An 11" wide print needs a file about 3300 pixels wide — details in our file prep guide.

Need specific sizes without laying out a sheet? Use DTF Transfers by Size. For volume, see gang sheets.

Back to blog