DTF Printer for Beginners: Top Tips to Make the Right Purchase

Direct-to-film (DTF) textile printing has increased the demand for garment customization. And the demand is too high for a couple of printers to fulfill. The ground is ripe for startups to venture into garment printing and make profits. A quality DTF printer for beginners can help a startup get a firm foothold in the competitive market.

Top Tips for Choosing Your First DTF Printer

1. Print Size and Resolution

Garment printers are available in various sizes, including A3, A4, and large format. If you are a dress designer and want to print your products, buy a smaller, you should buy a large-format machine. 

2. Print SpeedA3 or A4 machine. But if you have plans to start a large-scale printing business

A garment printer is known for its speed. Here’s the breakdown of the print speed of various machines.

• Entry Level: 1-3 sq.m/hour

• Mid-Range: 4-6 sq.m/hour

• High-End: 20-30 sq.m/hour

The print speed also depends on factors like resolution settings. Higher-quality prints involving complex designs take more time. A beginner can start garment printing with an entry-level machine.

3. Color Range and Quality

The latest design DTF printers for beginners come with dual or multi-heads. They offer a wider color gamut with consistent quality. You can opt for an entry-level printer to start your business, but you shouldn’t compromise on color range and quality. After all, the success of your business depends on color production and consistent quality.

4. Reliability and Durability

Epson, Roland, and STS Inks are some of the leading manufacturers of DTF printers for beginners. They maintain high quality throughout their models. The availability of replacement parts at an affordable price is also a reason to buy printers from these brands. If you want to buy your printer from any other brand, keep its reliability and durability in mind.

5. Ease-of-use and User-Friendly Features

Look for beginner-friendly features, like intuitive controls, auto maintenance, and clear instructions. These features can help run your printer at its optimum speed without compromising print quality. The machine will also keep you free from regular maintenance, like printhead cleaning and film feeding.

6. Compatibility

DTF printing involves the use of PET films, inks, and adhesive powder. You should choose a machine that is compatible with third-party supplies. It will allow you greater flexibility in choosing your supplies. However, brands ask printers to buy branded supplies to get a warranty.

7. Cost

Consider the upfront cost and the running cost of a printer before making an opinion on it. However, you can save money on consumables like ink, film, and powder. Bulk buying of supplies could reduce the overall cost of printing in the long run. It is better to have sufficient money in hand to maintain the machine.

8. Support and Training

Choose the DTF printers for beginners that come with quality support and training. For example, you should get comprehensive training on how to run and maintain the machine. After-sales support is also needed for troubleshooting and maintenance. Your first DTF printer should be a one-time investment.