How to build a DTF gang sheet
- Drop your artwork into the tray: transparent PNGs at 300 DPI, sized to the print size you want.
- Set the roll width (22 in is the most common DTF roll), output DPI, gap between designs and outer margin.
- Choose a packing mode: tightest shape nest to save the most film, fast compact grid for speed, or preserve source order when the sequence matters.
- Add team names from a CSV if the order needs them.
- Review the production checks, packed length and film used, then export the panels for your RIP.
Why nesting matters for DTF cost
DTF film and ink are priced by the square foot, so every inch of empty film is money on the floor. Packing by bounding box leaves gaps around round, diagonal and irregular designs; nesting by the actual shape tucks smaller transfers into those gaps. On a sheet of mixed logos and sizes that can mean a noticeably shorter sheet for the same order, and the builder shows the packed length and film used so you can compare.
If you sell gang sheets by length, a shorter sheet for the same artwork is margin you keep. Check the numbers with the DTF cost calculator and your profit margin.
Preparing artwork for a gang sheet
- Use PNG with a real transparent background. White boxes around designs will print as white ink.
- Build each design at its final print size at 300 DPI. Use the DPI calculator to check pixel dimensions.
- Remove stray semi-transparent pixels and drop shadows that won't transfer cleanly. The background remover helps with customer photos.
- Press finished transfers with the right settings from the heat press chart.