The DTF Side Hustle: How to Start a Custom Shirt Business on a Budget
In 2025, you don’t need a warehouse or a $20,000 industrial printer to run a successful apparel business. Some of the most profitable custom shirt brands in Dallas are being run by entrepreneurs who focus on one thing: The Hustle.
If you’ve been looking for a business with high margins and professional results, the DTF (Direct-to-Film) model is the answer. Here is how to build your brand using Ink Nest as your production partner.
1. Minimal Startup, Maximum Quality
Most people think they need to spend thousands on equipment to start. While many of our customers eventually buy their own heat press, you don't have to wait until you have the budget to get started.
The Local Advantage: If you are local to the Dallas area, we’ve removed the biggest barrier to entry. When you purchase your transfers from Ink Nest, you can use our professional, commercial-grade heat press right here in our store. You can bring your blank shirts in, press your order using our industrial equipment, and walk out with a finished product ready for your customer.
2. Master the Margins (The Math of a 22x12" Gang Sheet)
The reason a DTF side hustle is so profitable is the Gang Sheet. Instead of ordering one print at a time, you "gang up" multiple designs on a single roll of film.
At Ink Nest, our gang sheets start at just $4.99 for a 22x12" area. The Math of the Hustle:
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A standard 4x4" chest logo is a staple for local businesses and spirit wear.
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On a single 22x12" sheet, you can fit 15 chest logos.
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At $4.99 per sheet, your cost per transfer is just $0.33.
Even if you are printing larger full-front designs, the cost-per-print remains significantly lower than any other professional printing method. Pair a $0.33 transfer with a quality blank, and your profit margins per shirt are unmatched.
3. Speed Up Production with "Ghost Peel"
When you’re running a side hustle, your biggest constraint is time. Whether you are pressing at home or using our pro-grade equipment in-store, you want to get in and out quickly.
That’s where our signature Ghost Peel technology changes the game.
"Our Ghost Peel transfers peel instantly and disappear like a ghost, leaving only the ink behind. No waiting, no cooling—just press, peel, and go."
Because you don't have to wait for the shirts to cool down, you can fly through a 20-shirt order in minutes.
4. Why Partner with Ink Nest?
We aren't just a print shop; we are your Production Department. We use premium ink and premium powder to ensure your customers get a product that won't crack or fade (tested for 50+ washes). Our Dallas-based team checks your files for quality before they hit the printer, so you can sell with confidence.
Ready to Launch Your Side Hustle?
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Local to Dallas? Order your transfers and ask about using our Commercial Heat Press to finish your job on-site.
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Ready to design? Use our [Online Gang Sheet Builder] to layout your gang sheets.
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Got your files ready? Upload your [Print-Ready Gang Sheet File] here.
Address: 2525 Royal Ln. Suite #310, Dallas, TX 75229, United States
Email: sales@inknestshirts.com
Phone: +1 (817) 881-7881
Business Hours:
Monday to Friday: 10 A.M - 5 P.M
Saturday: 10 A.M - 3 P.M
Sunday: CLOSED
