DTF Transfer Sheets & Films Explained
Nov 3, 2025 • DTF Delaware Team
If you’re new to DTF printing, you’ve probably come across terms like DTF transfer sheets, DTF gang sheets, or DTF films. But what do they actually mean — and how do they fit into the DTF printing process?
This guide breaks it all down in beginner-friendly terms. You’ll learn what DTF transfer sheets and films are, how they’re used, the differences between gang sheets and stickers, and how to choose the right size for adult or youth shirts.
👉 If you’re just getting started, check out DTF Printing 101: The Complete Beginner’s Guide and What Does DTF Transfer Mean? before diving into the details here.
Table of Contents
What Are DTF Transfer Sheets?
A DTF transfer sheet is a special PET film (polyethylene terephthalate) designed to hold printed ink during the Direct-to-Film (DTF) process. It’s where your artwork is first printed before being heat-pressed onto fabric.
Unlike paper or vinyl, DTF film has a smooth, heat-resistant surface that allows the printer’s ink to stay vibrant, durable, and flexible. After printing, an adhesive powder is applied and cured — turning your printed design into a ready-to-press transfer.
In short, DTF sheets act as the bridge between your design and your garment.
Key features:
- Temperature-resistant for high-heat pressing
- Works with water-based pigment inks
- Comes in cut sheets (single design) or roll format for mass production
- Compatible with cotton, polyester, blends, and dark fabrics
What Are DTF Transfer Gang Sheets?
A DTF gang sheet is a large sheet that holds multiple designs — perfect for saving material and reducing waste. Instead of printing each logo or design separately, you can “gang” multiple artworks on one large film sheet.
This makes gang sheets ideal for:
- Small business owners printing multiple customer designs
- Apparel brands producing several shirt sizes or variations
- Print-on-demand sellers who want to batch-print for efficiency
Typical gang sheet sizes include:
- 22” x 24” (small batch)
- 22” x 60” (standard)
- 22” x 120” (large or bulk runs)
👉 For a detailed step-by-step overview of how printing on film works, see How Does DTF Transfer Work? Step-by-Step Breakdown for Beginners.
Pro tip:
Arrange your designs close together with minimal spacing to make the most of every inch of film. Most DTF print providers (including ours) allow you to upload multiple designs per sheet to maximize value and reduce cost.
What Are DTF Transfer Stickers?
The term “DTF transfer stickers” refers to pre-cut DTF transfers that act like peel-and-press stickers for fabric. These are perfect for smaller prints such as logos, patches, or sleeve designs.
Once heat-pressed, the adhesive melts into the fibers of your garment, bonding the design permanently — no cracking, peeling, or fading.
They’re sometimes called:
- DTF logo transfers
- DTF mini transfers
- Heat press fabric stickers
Common uses:
- Branded logos for uniforms
- Hat and tote bag designs
- Sleeve or pocket graphics
If you’re just getting started with smaller designs, DTF stickers are a low-commitment way to test quality before ordering full gang sheets.
How to Use DTF Transfer Film
The DTF film is the heart of the transfer process. Here’s a simple breakdown of how to use it correctly:
1- Print Your Design
Use a DTF printer equipped with CMYK + White inks to print your design in reverse on the matte side of the PET film.
2- Apply Adhesive Powder
While the ink is still wet, sprinkle DTF adhesive powder over the design. Shake off the excess.
3- Cure the Film
Heat the powdered film (using a curing oven or heat press in hover mode) to melt the adhesive powder evenly.
4- Press Onto Fabric
Place the cured film on your garment and heat press at around 300–325°F (150–160°C) for 15–20 seconds, depending on fabric type.
5- Peel the Film
Once cool (or warm, depending on your film type), peel away the PET film — leaving a soft, durable, and vibrant print on your shirt.
6- Final Press (Optional)
For best results, apply a second 5-second press with parchment paper or a Teflon sheet to seal the design.
What Size DTF Transfer for Adult, Youth & Large Shirts?
Choosing the right DTF transfer size ensures your design fits perfectly on your garment. Below are standard size recommendations (in inches):
| Garment Type | Typical Print Area | Common Size |
|---|---|---|
| Adult T-Shirt | 11” × 11” – 12” × 12” | Standard chest design |
| Youth T-Shirt | 8” × 8” – 9” × 9” | Smaller chest area |
| Toddler Shirt | 5” × 5” – 6” × 6” | Center chest print |
| Large Shirt / Oversized | 13” × 16” – 14” × 17” | Full-front design |
| Sleeve / Pocket | 3” × 3” – 4” × 4” | Small accent design |
Pro tip:
Always measure your garment’s printable area before ordering. If you’re unsure, choose a gang sheet and include multiple sizes — it’s more flexible and cost-effective.
Why DTF Sheets & Films Are Revolutionizing Custom Printing
Here’s why DTF sheets are quickly replacing older methods like screen printing or HTV (heat transfer vinyl):
- No weeding or cutting — print and press directly
- Applies to any fabric color or type
- Vibrant, durable prints that don’t crack or peel
- More efficient for bulk orders or multi-design runs
- Eco-friendly — less ink and waste
Whether you’re running a small Etsy shop or managing a high-volume apparel business, DTF transfer films make production faster, simpler, and more profitable.
FAQs About DTF Transfer Sheets & Films
Final Thoughts
DTF transfer sheets and films are the foundation of the Direct-to-Film process — and understanding them helps you get better, more consistent print results.
If you’re ready to create your own high-quality transfers, explore our Custom DTF Transfers or upload multiple designs on our DTF Gang Sheet Builder today.
