Direct To Film (DTF) Printers

DTF (Direct to Film) printing is a full color process where designs are printed onto a special film and then transferred to various textiles using a heat press.

A DTF printer is a specialized printer that prints designs onto transfer films which can be heat-pressed onto fabrics. It typically includes features to handle DTF inks and powders.

DTF printing is ideal for businesses looking to create full color custom apparel, promotional items, and other textile products. It's particularly suitable for small to medium-sized operations due to its versatility, relatively low setup cost, and ability to produce high-quality, durable prints. If you are making 50 to a 100 shirts per week a DTF Printer is the right fit for you.

It's recommended to use your DTF printer regularly to keep the ink system in good condition and prevent clogs. Even if you don't have daily printing needs, running a small print job a few times a week can help maintain optimal printer performance.

1. Design your artwork using graphic design software.
2. Print the design onto DTF film using a DTF printer.
3. Apply adhesive powder to the printed film.
4. Cure the powder-coated film.
5. Heat press the film onto the desired fabric.

Heat Transfer Warehouse offers a wide selection of DTF printers, bundles, and accessories, with high-quality products and reliable customer service. and offer full service equipment consultation

• Clean the print heads and capping stations to prevent clogs.
• Shake the white ink cartridges to maintain proper consistency. (this depends on the ink you are using).
• Check and clean the powder application area.
• Ensure proper ventilation and clean any excess powder from the workspace.
• Keeping your machine tidy and clean is important.
• Cover during periods on non use.

• Ventilation: Proper ventilation is essential. All our ovens come with a fume collector to ensure a safe working environment.
• Handling Powder: Protect your face when handling powder. Think of it like swimming at your own risk—it's your health, so be aware. Just like sawdust is harmless but wearing a mask while sanding is still wise to keep it out of your lungs.

Yes, DTF (Direct-to-Film) printers are capable of printing white ink. This capability is crucial for creating vibrant designs, especially on dark or colored fabrics. The white ink acts as a base layer, allowing the colors to stand out more effectively and will give you the best opacity.

To run a DTF printer efficiently, you need a computer with sufficient power to handle graphic design software, printer drivers, and large print files. Here are the recommended specifications for a computer to run a DTF printer:

• Minimum: Intel Core i5 or AMD Ryzen 5
• Recommended: Intel Core i7 or AMD Ryzen 7 for better performance with design software
• Windows 10 or later, macOS 10.14 or later (check compatibility with your DTF printer's drivers)
• Minimum: 256 GB SSD (Solid State Drive)
• Recommended: 512 GB SSD or higher for faster load times and better overall performance
• Having a computer that meets or exceeds these specifications will ensure a smooth workflow and help you get the best performance out of your DTF printer.

• Entry-Level: Craft Hobby 
  • $3000 to $4000+ depending on accessories 
• Mid-Range: Small Business/Side Hustle
  • $5000 to $12,000+ depending on accessories
• High-End: Business/ Full Production House
  • $12,000 to $30,000+ depending on accessories

If you're not ready to purchase a DTF printer, you can still get custom-printed DTF transfers from Heat Transfer Warehouse, allowing you to enjoy high-quality prints without the initial investment.