Direct to Film (DTF): 2025 Clothing Labels

Every year, I love adding a date to the things I make. It’s a simple way to look back on my projects and remember not just what I was working on, but what life was like at the time. It helps me see how much I’ve learned and how my skills have grown over time. Here are the labels I put together for 2025—looking forward to what they’ll mark this year.

This Year’s Designs

Download

This year’s labels are 2″ wide by 0.95″ tall. I have 8 different versions and 9 copies each for 72 labels for the year. Click the button below, which will open a tab to Gumroad where you can download the Adobe Illustrator and exported PNG file:

Helpful Tips

How to Export the File

• Choose File > Export > Export As.
• Select a location for the file, and enter a filename (e.g., Description-LengthxWidth-Copies.png [2025NeckLabels-22×12-1pcs.png]).
• Select the PNG file format Save As Type (Windows) or Format (macOS).
  • Select Use Artboards in the Export dialog box.
  • Select All.
• Select Export.

PNG Export Options

• Set the Resolution to High (300 ppi).
• Set Anti-aliasing to Type Optimized (Hinted).
• Unselect Interlaced.
• Set the Background Color to Transparent.
• Verify the PNG file is 22 inches by 12 inches, has a transparent background, and generally looks like the screenshot just above.

How to Apply Labels

• With your iron at 300ºF, pre-press your garment for approximately 7 seconds to remove excess moisture. I have a small Cricut EasyPress Mini set to Medium.
• Next, place your clothing label on your garment and press again for 7-10 seconds with heavy pressure.
• Let the clothing label cool for 10-15 seconds, and at the same time, wipe it down with a microfiber cloth around the edges of the label.
• While the label is warm but not hot, grab a corner of the film and peel.
• Flip the film around, lay on top of the clothing label, and press again for 7 seconds.