Introduction
Are you ready to thrive in the vibrant world of direct-to-film printing? To get started, you must be able to choose the right DTF printer. This initial step is crucial for achieving stunning, superior DTF transfers that last long.
However, with a wide range of options available, it’s nothing short of challenging to identify which printer best caters to your needs. To make things simpler, here’s a guide that will help you to discover more about DTF printers.
Here, you can break down the essential features and printer types you can choose from. You’ll also get to the bottom of the most common DTF printer questions.
Understanding DTF Transfers
Whether you’re new to or seasoned in the digital printing market, you’ve likely heard about DTF printing. It’s hard to miss out on this technique, as it’s one of the hottest methods in the industry today.
So, what is DTF printing anyway? As the name implies, direct-to-film printing is a printing technique involving transfer films. Instead of direct substrate printing, you first print your design on a plastic sheet. The printed film then gets coated with a powder adhesive and then cured. Finally, you run your film on a heat press machine to transfer the design to almost any type of fabric.
DTF printing is so popular as it offers unrestricted freedom for shirt customization. It also provides one of the most vibrant and crispiest transfers you can get, even for complex images.
What to Prepare Before DTF Printing?
So, you must be new to the world of DTF printing. Before you can fully delve into your DTF journey, there are a few things you need to prepare first. Here are the tools and supplies you must have to get started.
DTF printers: The very first tool to invest in. Either go straight for DTF-specific printers or start with a converted printer for a cheaper, dependable alternative.
DTF transfer films: Use high-quality DTF films to avoid compromising your transfer quality and design vibrancy.
DTF powders: You can’t complete your DTF transfer without this supply. DTF powders are key to a durable transfer that lasts longer.
Thermal transfer machines: Heat press machines that make transferring the image from the sheet to the fabric possible.
Drying equipment: Besides the heat press machine, you also need a drying rack and curing oven.
Cleaning supplies: These are consumables vital for cleaning your tools. They include a printhead cleaning solution, lint-free cloth, and alcohol.
Design software: Raster Image Processing (RIP) software that allows you to craft designs freely.Working environment: A dedicated workspace that’s free from contaminants and well-ventilated.
Suitable Printer Types for DTF Transfers
There are a few printer types you can pursue when doing DTF printing. Here are your choices:
DTF printers
Your best option is to invest in DTF-specific printers. These printers are the most suitable option for optimal results. They integrate advanced features that can make production faster and more convenient. The only caveat is that they can be hefty for your pocket.
Inkjet Printers
They are a popular alternative as they can handle water-based inks. They also guarantee high-resolution results. Most converted DTF printers are inkjet printers, too.
Sublimation Printers
You can also opt for a sublimation printer, but you must stick to using sublimation inks. This is perfect if you’re after the DTF sublimation hack. This technique lets you do DTF printing on natural fabrics like cotton.
Factors to Assess When Selecting a DTF Printer
Before deciding on the brand or model, weigh the crucial factors for your next DTF printer. Here are the areas you should focus on to help you land the best printer for your venture.
Suitable Printers
You must use the appropriate printer when printing DTF. Focus on those designed explicitly for DTF printing or can be easily modified for the job. Compare user reviews to narrow your search for a dependable and suitable DTF printer.
Print Resolution
Find printers that can handle at least 1440 DPI (dots per inch) to guarantee your prints are sharp and professional-looking. Print quality is the first thing your customers will check, so invest in a high-resolution printer.
Ink Types
Consider a printer that can support different ink types. DTF inks are water-based and can be pigment, dye, or specialty. If you’re after building a unique brand, you should look for a printer that caters to specialty ink. These inks offer specific effects like cracked, metallic, matte, or fluorescent. These effects are ideal for higher customization opportunities.
Printer Dimensions
Always consider the right size and capacity that will suit your demands. If you’re after bigger designs, start with A3 or larger printers. If you have a small workspace, an A4 printer can be enough.
Print Speed
And, of course, look for a printer that can catch up to the speed of your production. Print speed is an undeniable deciding factor, particularly in the commercial space. Test the printer’s speed specs, often measured in pages per hour (PPH) or square meters per hour.
A faster printer can help you efficiently meet larger orders or deadlines. But guarantee that the printer’s speed does not compromise the print quality. You can’t focus on speed alone and disregard your output’s value.
FAQs
Can inkjet printers be used for DTF transfers?
Yes. Inkjet printers are compatible with DTF printing as long as you modify them. In fact, you can start with a converted inkjet printer if you’re new to DTF. Many hobbyists and small-time businesses opt for converted printers due to their affordability.
To make an inkjet printer DTF-compatible, you must swap its regular inks with DTF inks. This entails draining the old ink and deep cleaning the used printer’s printhead and tank. For a brand-new printer, you can fill it with DTF inks right off the bat, and you’ll be DTF-ready in an instant. You can reconfigure the printer’s settings to suit the exceptional results you’re after.
Can laser printers be used for DTF transfers?
No. Laser printers are not advisable for DTF printing since they work on white toner, not white ink. There’s a significant difference in composition between the two. White toner is a powder-based medium, while DTF inks are water-based. Hence, interchanging the two printers is not possible.
Can I do DTF printing at home?
Yes, definitely. DTF printing is a straightforward process you can follow at home. Making your DTF transfers yourself is achievable with the proper equipment and consumables. Even without a heat press machine, you can transfer DTF designs using a flat iron. It may be tricky but there are many DTF enthusiasts online proving that a hot iron can be a substitute for a heat press for DIY printing.
Is it possible to use a sublimation printer for DTF printing?
You can do DTF printing using thermal sublimation but you also have to use sublimation ink. This is the DTF sublimation hack where you use a sublimation printer and ink to do DTF printing on cotton. After printing on the film, you can follow the remaining steps for DTF transfer. You must still dust the film with DTF powder, cure it, and run it on the heat press machine.
Which printer brands are particularly recommended for DTF transfers?
There are many reliable brands in the market you can pick from. One of which is Linko, a leading manufacturer specializing in DTF and other printer types. They offer complete sets of equipment and consumables for your business.
Is the DTF print quality good?
Yes. You’ll never go wrong with DTF printing if you’re after premium print quality. They’re among the most vibrant and sharpest designs you can get. DTF prints also offer a soft hand feel and work on complex designs for white and colored shirts.
How much does a DTF printer cost?
There are several factors affecting the price of DTF printers. Most often, the printer’s brand and size dictate the cost. But in general, you can shoulder around $300 to $1000 for entry-level DTF printers. More advanced models may carry a price tag of up to $5000. Going after high-end commercial printers means you’re looking at $10,000 or more.
