Beginner’s Guide to Creating a Flawless Gang Sheet

Ordering a DTF gang sheet is one of the most practical and affordable ways to get your designs ready for printing. In this read, we’ll discuss some tips for creating your own gang sheets—no experience required—that don’t require touch ups.

You don’t need to be a very technical person to create a gang sheet, nor do you need advanced, expensive software. Gang sheets are something anyone, from beginners with no experience to pro illustrators, can make. Read along to find out how.

What is a gang sheet?

Before we start, it’s important we clarify what a gang sheet exactly is.

The DTF printer prints designs on long rolls of film, with a standard width of 22 inches and a length of however much is needed. To optimize space, it’s best to try to fit as many designs as possible into one sheet. This sheet is called a gang sheet.

This is why when creating your digital gang sheet on your device, you should set the width of your sheet to 22 inches, reflecting how the sheet will look in real life. This allows you to make the best use of the space you have available.

Devices and Software

We always recommend using a laptop or computer to create your gang sheet. You can also use an iPad—it all depends on what you’re comfortable with. Generally, laptops or computers are easiest to navigate.

However, we don’t recommend using your phone to create a gang sheet. The smaller screen decreases visibility and makes software harder to navigate.

There are many different software options when it comes to gang sheets. Which one you use depends on your preferences and experience level.

Canva

One of the easiest software to use for creating gang sheets is Canva, a graphic design platform that is accessible to beginners and professionals alike.

Even if you’ve never used any graphic design software, or never made your own gang sheet, you can use Canva—it’s easy to learn. For an in-depth tutorial on making a gang sheet in Canva, check out our video or instructional blog.

Although Canva tends to be more appealing to beginner designers and might not offer the more sophisticated and advanced feel of other platforms, it’s still a great option for making gang sheets.

Adobe Illustrator

Adobe Illustrator is an industry-standard design tool used by professionals. It’s more complex than beginner platforms like Canva, but it offers powerful features and precision for those who are more experienced in design.

If you're already comfortable with Illustrator, it can be a great option. But if you're new to design software, it might feel overwhelming and has a steeper learning curve.

Zizo DTF Build a Gang Sheet Tool

Another platform you can use is our very own “Build a Gang Sheet Tool,” available under “DTF Transfer” or “UV DTF Sticker” on our website, or through the link provided.

These are just a few examples—feel free to use any other tools that work similarly!

General Tips

Once you decide which platform you’d like to make your gang sheet on, it’s important to follow a few steps. Here are some key takeaways:

• Use the correct sizing: Set width to 22 inches; height as needed.
• Remove backgrounds: Make sure unwanted backgrounds are removed from your designs. Use Canva Pro’s background remover or tools like remove.bg.
• Don’t overlap designs: Zoom in to check spacing. Leave space for cutting.
• Download at high resolution: Export your sheet at 300 DPI or higher (Canva: PDF Print or PNG at 3x+).

Gang Sheet Creation Checklist

• ✔️ Canvas set to 22 inches wide (inches as the unit)
• ✔️ Backgrounds removed
• ✔️ No overlapping designs
• ✔️ High resolution export (300 DPI+)

That’s all!

Creating a gang sheet might sound intimidating at first, but with the right tools and a few simple guidelines, anyone can do it. Whether you’re designing your first shirt or preparing bulk prints for a small business, following these steps will help you get clean, professional results.

Remember, you don’t have to be a graphic designer to make something great. Start with the software you’re most comfortable with, stick to the correct sizing, keep resolution in mind, and don’t be afraid to experiment.

If you ever get stuck, we’re here to help! Check out our tutorials, or try our Build a Gang Sheet Tool for a super easy, beginner-friendly way to get started.