Whether you're personalizing shirts for your next craft market, fulfilling custom orders, or creating your own brand, getting the placement of your design just right can make all the difference. Misplaced graphics can throw off the whole look - but don’t worry! We've got your back (and front, and sleeve… literally).
Here’s a simple guide to 6 of the most popular t-shirt graphic placements, including recommended sizes and tips for perfect positioning. And remember, these are just guidelines. If you find something that works for you, just do it!
1. Chest Crest
- Standard Width: 8" to 11"
- Standard Height: 4" to 11"
- Placement: Centred, 2.5" to 3.5" down from the collar
Why we love it: This is great for small business logos, team names, and is the go-to placement for most designs. It's a highly visible location and is super versatile for everyday wear.
Tip: The most common mistake is placing the chest crest too low. Use a ruler or t-shirt alignment guide to measure from the neckline and always double-check centring side to side!
2. Full Front
- Standard Width: 12"
- Standard Height: 13" to 16"
- Placement: Centred, 2.5" to 3.5" down from the collar
Why we love it: This bold, eye-catching layout is perfect for larger designs, slogans, or detailed graphics. It fills the shirt without overwhelming it and is great for both adult and youth sizes. You'll often see this used for concert/festival t-shirts.
Tip: Incorporate some empty space in your design for a better feel and breathability. No one wants a big solid rectangle of vinyl on their chest.
3. Left Chest (Crest)
- Standard Width: 3" to 4"
- Standard Height: 2" to 4"
- Placement: Centred 3.5" to 4" from shirt centre, 6" to 7" from shoulder (directly below the collar edge)
Why we love it: A classic, clean look for small logos or monograms. Perfect for uniforms, small business branding, or a subtle custom touch.
Tip: Use a ruler or t-shirt alignment guide to measure from the centre of the shirt (or use the shirt tag as a reference point). On most adult shirts, the design should sit just above the heart.
4. Sleeve
- Standard Width: 3" to 4"
- Standard Height: 2" to 4"
- Placement: Centred, 1" to 2" above the sleeve hem
Why we love it: Sleeve prints are trendy and subtle - great for hashtags, initials, or branding touches. They add personality without stealing the show.
Tip: Use a small pressing pillow inside the sleeve to protect your design from the seam on the back of the sleeve while pressing.
5. Back Crest
- Standard Width: 10" to 12"
- Standard Height: 6" to 12"
- Placement: Centred, 3" to 4" below the collar
Why we love it: This is ideal for sports jerseys, business branding, or large artistic designs. It’s a bold way to make a statement and adds a lot of perceived value to a shirt, when combined with a left chest print.
Tip: This works best on crewnecks or hoodies where the top back area is flat and visible. If using thick material, adjust your heat press pressure accordingly.
6. Upper Back (Yoke)
- Standard Width: 3" to 4"
- Standard Height: 2" to 4"
- Placement: Centred, 1" to 2" below the collar
Why we love it: A favorite among boutique brands and sports teams, this subtle placement is perfect for names, website URLs, or small logos.
Tip: Fold the shirt lengthwise to find the centre, and measure carefully from the collar seam down. This one is easy to misalign if you're not careful.
Bonus Tips for Perfect Placement
- You may need to scale the size and placement of your design up or down for smaller (youth) and larger (2XL-4XL) shirt sizes.
- Invest in a t-shirt ruler
- Always test placement before pressing, especially when trying a new shirt style or size. Does it look right? Most HTV has an adhesive backer to hold your design in place, but if not, use Siser Heat Tape or similar.
Ready to Start Creating?
You can find all the vinyl crafting tools, heat transfer vinyl (HTV), sublimation ink and tools, and direct-to-film (DTF) transfers you need at HFX Vinyl & Craft Supplies. Whether you're making one shirt or prepping for a full craft fair, we’ve got everything to help you bring your ideas to life.
Need help choosing the right vinyl or tools for your next t-shirt project? Reach out — we're happy to help!