Should You Use Custom Gang Sheets or PreMade DTF Gang Sheets for Your Business?

When operating a printing business, or simply starting out, you have likely encountered two common terms: custom gang sheets and PreMade DTF Gang Sheets. They are both groundbreakers when it comes to the decoration of apparel. However, the question is: Which one is the best for your business?

Let's dive into it step by step.

What Exactly Are Gang Sheets?

Before we get into the custom vs. premade debate, let’s quickly understand what gang sheets are.

A gang sheet is basically a big sheet of film where you place multiple designs together. You print together various logos, graphics, or text on a single sheet instead of printing a single design. Next, the patterns are printed out on a DTF (Direct-to-Film) and then prepared to be heat-pressed onto apparel.

Why is this useful? Because it saves you time, money, and material. Instead of wasting extra space on individual sheets, you fill one length up with everything you need in one go.

The Basics of DTF Transfers

DTF transfers are hot in the custom apparel industry for a reason. They give sharp, vibrant prints that last. And pressing them onto apparel is straightforward:

• Set your heat press to 280–300 °F
  
  

• Press for 8–10 seconds
  
  

• Peel and you’re done!
  
  

That’s it. No mess, no long wait times. Just quality prints that feel soft and look professional.

Why Custom Gang Sheets Make Sense

Let’s talk about customization first.

When you order custom gang sheets, you’re in control. You upload your own designs, arrange them the way you want, and make sure the sheet is filled with graphics that matter to you. This is a huge win for businesses that deal with multiple logos, seasonal designs, or small-batch orders.

Here’s why they’re great:

• Flexibility: Add different sizes of the same design. Or mix totally different designs. Your sheet, your rules.
  
  

• No wasted space: Fill every corner with artwork. That means more value for your money.
  
  

• Perfect for branding: Small businesses love custom gang sheets because they can test new designs without ordering huge runs.
  
  

The only downside? It takes a little more time to set up. You need to upload, arrange, and double-check your designs before ordering. But for many, that extra step is worth it.

The Case for PreMade DTF Gang Sheets

Now, what about ready-to-go designs?

PreMade DTF Gang Sheets are exactly what they sound like. Instead of uploading your own designs, you pick from pre-designed sheets. These are perfect for people who want fast results without the hassle of arranging files.

Benefits include:

• Speed: No waiting around. The designs are already set up.
  
  

• Consistency: You know exactly what you’re getting, with no surprises.
  
  

• Great for beginners: If you’re just starting, premade sheets take away the stress of design setup.
  
  

On the flip side, you lose some freedom. You can’t change the design or resize elements. What you see is what you get.

Which One Is Better for Your Business?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. It depends on your business goals.

• If you run a custom shop where customers constantly bring their own logos, slogans, or artwork → custom gang sheets are your best friend.
  
  

• If you run an online store with trendy, repeatable designs → PreMade DTF Gang Sheets save time and keep your workflow simple.
  
  

• If you’re experimenting or just starting out → mix both. Use custom sheets for unique client orders and premade ones to test out markets or keep inventory stocked.

Real-World Example

Imagine you run a small apparel shop. A local gym approaches you for shirts with their logo, but they also want a motivational slogan on the back. With custom gang sheets, you can place the logo, the slogan, and even a few size variations on one sheet. Boom, you’re ready to press.

Now, let’s say you also sell trending t-shirts online with funny quotes. Instead of designing from scratch, you grab PreMade DTF Gang Sheets with ready-to-press quotes. No design work, no delays, just press and sell.

See the difference? Both options have a role, depending on what you’re doing.

What About Cost?

Cost is often the deciding factor.

Custom sheets can be more cost-effective because you control what’s printed. You’re maximizing space. Every inch of the sheet has value.

Premade sheets, while faster, may include designs you don’t always use. That could mean wasted prints. But for businesses selling popular designs, premade options can actually save money by cutting down design and setup costs.

Quality: Is There a Difference?

Good news, there’s no major difference in print quality. Both custom and premade gang sheets deliver sharp, vibrant colors. Both last long when pressed correctly.

The key is the provider. Not all companies deliver the same level of consistency. That’s why choosing the right partner matters.

Why Armor Ink?

This is where Armor Ink comes in.

We specialize in both custom gang sheets and premade designs. With our online builder tool, you can easily create sheets filled with your own graphics. Or, if you want something quick, our ready-to-press designs are available anytime.

Our sheets press at 280–300 °F for 8–10 seconds, giving you professional-quality results with minimal effort. Plus, we pride ourselves on fast turnaround times and reliable shipping. Whether you’re running a side hustle or managing a large apparel brand, we’ve got your back.

The Final Word

So, should you choose custom sheets or premade? The truth is, you don’t always have to pick one. The smartest businesses use both. Custom sheets for client orders, PreMade DTF Gang Sheets for quick wins, and inventory.

At the end of the day, it’s about balance. Your business needs might change month to month. The good news is, with the right partner like Armor Ink, you’ve got options that fit every stage of growth.

FAQs

Q1. What are gang sheets in DTF printing?

A gang sheet is a large film that holds multiple designs together. Instead of printing one logo at a time, you place many designs on a single sheet, which saves time, money, and material.

Q2. What’s the difference between custom gang sheets and premade ones?

Custom gang sheets let you upload and arrange your own designs. Premade sheets come with ready-to-press designs that you cannot edit. The choice depends on whether you need flexibility or speed.

Q3. Are custom gang sheets more cost-effective?

Yes, in many cases. Since you control the layout, you can fill every inch of the sheet with useful designs. This reduces waste and gives you more value for your money.

Q4. When should a business use PreMade DTF Gang Sheets?

Premade sheets are ideal when you want quick results. They’re great for beginners, trending designs, or shops that sell popular apparel without needing custom artwork.