Use this chart for
- Youth center chest and full-front placement checks
- Toddler shirt decal sizing before cutting HTV or vinyl
- Small-batch custom shirts where repeatable order notes matter
Quick placement table
| Area | Starting size | Starting placement | Check before pressing |
|---|---|---|---|
| Toddler center chest | 4.5-6 in wide | About 1.5-2 in below collar | Keep artwork simple because small shirts lose readable detail quickly |
| Youth center chest | 6.5-8.5 in wide | About 2-2.5 in below collar | Compare against shirt width, not age label alone |
| Youth full front | 7.5-9.5 in wide | About 2.5-3 in below collar | Avoid dropping the print too low on short torso blanks |
| Youth left chest | 2.25-3 in wide | About 2.25-3 in below collar | Use a simpler logo than adult staff shirts |
Assumptions and notes
- Youth sizing varies heavily between brands, so measure the blank before pressing.
- Small designs often need thicker strokes than adult artwork.
- Use test paper or a scrap transfer for names, school logos, and detailed graphics.
Common mistakes
- Using adult left-chest sizing on youth shirts.
- Letting a tall design run too close to the waist fold.
- Forgetting that toddler shirts have much less vertical print space.
Download / print actions
FAQ
Should I size by age or by shirt width?
Use the shirt width. Age labels are less reliable than measuring the actual blank flat.
Can I use adult templates for youth shirts?
Use the same alignment idea, but reduce design width and collar drop for youth and toddler blanks.