FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Straight answers for print shops, DTF operators and sellers — each topic links into a calculator or guide so you can act, not bounce.
Image & print size
What DPI should I use for DTF transfers?
Most DTF and apparel print files are built at 300 DPI at the final print size. Lower DPI can look soft; unnecessarily high DPI bloats files without improving press quality.
How do I convert pixels to print inches?
Inches = pixels ÷ DPI. At 300 DPI, 3000 px is 10 inches wide. Always confirm the intended print size before you send a file to RIP software.
Clients send sizes in centimetres — what should I do?
Convert cm to inches first (÷ 2.54), then build the pixel canvas at your target DPI. Do not “eyeball” metric specs into US templates.
DTF, film & production cost
How do I price a DTF transfer honestly?
Add film, ink, powder, labour and waste, then apply markup. Quoting from competitor screenshots without your own cost stack is how shops lose money.
Should I bill film by design area or by sheet?
For single designs, use art area plus waste %. For gang sheets, bill sheet share or per square inch — pick one method and stay consistent so quotes are comparable.
Are heat-press times on PressMath manufacturer settings?
No. They are planning defaults. Always follow your film and powder brand charts, then log what works on your press and platen.
Shop, Etsy & shipping
Why do my Etsy fees look higher than the listing fee?
Transaction, processing, offsite ads and shipping can stack. Model the full checkout path, not only the listing fee.
What is volumetric (DIM) weight?
Carriers often bill the greater of scale weight and (L×W×H) ÷ divisor. Light shirts in oversized boxes get charged as heavy parcels.
How should wholesale differ from retail?
Wholesale must cover your cost plus your margin and still leave dealers room under MSRP. “Half of retail” is a habit, not a formula.
Using PressMath
Do calculators send my numbers to your servers?
No. Formulas run in your browser. We do not store your job inputs. Contact-form messages are the only personal data you intentionally send us.
Can I use PressMath commercially?
Yes — the free tools are for personal and commercial estimating. Results are estimates; verify before production or customer quotes.
Where do I start if I am new?
Open the Resources hub for topic clusters, or jump straight into DPI, DTF cost and print pricing — those three cover most shop questions.
Still stuck?
Browse the resources hub, request a custom calculator, or contact us.