Spacing is the small detail that decides whether a gang sheet is easy to cut and press or a frustrating puzzle. Leave too little room and scissors clip the edges of your designs. Leave too much and you pay for empty film.
Recommended spacing
| Between… | Spacing |
|---|---|
| Designs (general) | 0.25"–0.5" (6–12 mm) |
| Small designs under 2" | 0.25" minimum |
| Large designs you will cut by hand | 0.5" |
| Design and sheet edge | 0.25" |
0.5" is the safest default if you are cutting with scissors. If you use a paper trimmer and straight cuts, 0.25" is enough.
Why spacing matters
- Clean cuts. You need room for scissors or a trimmer without touching the ink.
- Clean edges after pressing. A little clear film around each design makes it easier to peel.
- Fewer mistakes. Designs crowded together are easy to mix up and mis-cut, especially names and sizes.
Spacing for text and thin lines
Separate words and fine script lines are printed as individual pieces of ink held only by the film. Keep each word grouped with its design and leave the full 0.5" between different designs, so you never cut through a word by accident.
How to space designs fast
- In design software, add a 0.25" transparent border (or stroke) around each design before you place it, then butt the boxes together.
- Use alignment and distribute tools to keep rows straight; straight rows mean straight cuts.
- In our online gang sheet builder, set the spacing once and let auto-fill place copies for you.
Spacing vs wasted film
On a 22" × 60" sheet, going from 1" gaps to 0.5" gaps can fit an extra row of small designs. That is real money on a big order, but never go below 0.25". Check our sizes and pricing guide to see how many designs fit at each length.
FAQ
What is the minimum space between DTF designs?
0.25" (about 6 mm).
Do I need space at the edge of the sheet?
Yes, keep designs at least 0.25" from every edge of the 22" width.
Will spacing show on the shirt?
No. Only the ink transfers; the clear film around it peels away.
Ready to print? Upload your gang sheet, build one online or order by size. Orders placed by 2 PM PT Monday–Friday (12:30 PM Saturday) ship the same day from our shop in Santa Clara, CA, or pick them up free.
