Direct to film (DTF) has fundamentally changed the landscape of apparel decoration, providing a versatile way to handle complex designs across a massive range of fabrics. Whether you are a manual shop looking to add a secondary revenue stream or a high-production facility needing to push 400 transfers an hour, the right direct to film printers & equipment make all the difference. At Ryonet, we've got the tools and education that will help your shop succeed, and today we are breaking down the best Direct to Film printing setups to help your business grow.
Choosing the Right DTF Printer for Your Production Needs
Selecting a printer is the most critical decision in your DTF journey. You need a machine that matches your current volume while leaving room for the growth you’re working toward. The OmniDTF Mini Direct to Film (DTF) Printer Package - 13in is an excellent entry-level investment for small businesses or startups. It features a compact tabletop design and a Genuine Certified Epson PrecisionCore i1600 print head, capable of producing up to 20 transfers per hour.
For shops ready to step up, the OmniDTF 14.5 Direct to Film (DTF) Printer Package - 14.5in offers a wider print area and dual print heads to increase speed to approximately 60 transfers per hour. If high-volume production is your goal, the OmniDTF 24 Direct to Film (DTF) Printer Package - 24in utilizes advanced i3200 print heads to deliver 120 full-size transfers per hour, and the industrial-grade OmniDTF Plus Direct to Film (DTF) Printer Package - 36in pushes that to a staggering 400 per hour.
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Understanding the Math: What is a "Transfer"?
Production speeds listed for direct to film printers & equipment considers a "transfer" as a 12x12 inch design. This is the industry standard for a full-sized chest graphic. However, your actual output per hour will fluctuate based on your design size and how you "gang" your artwork on the film roll.
Because DTF printers use continuous rolls of DTF Film, you aren't limited to one design at a time. If you are printing 3x3 inch neck labels or pocket hits, you can "gang" or nest many designs side-by-side across the width of the roll. While a printer might be rated for 120 full-size transfers an hour, that same machine could produce over 800 small transfers in the same timeframe. The mechanical speed of the printer stays the same: your efficiency comes from how you use the printable real estate.
The Power of Hybrid: Epson F2270
If your shop thrives on versatility, a hybrid solution might be the best move. The Epson SureColor F2270 Hybrid DTF and DTG Printer is a purpose-built machine that handles both Direct-to-Garment and DTFilm capabilities. This allows you to support a wider range of materials and uniquely shaped products, from standard cotton tees to polyester performance wear.
Alternatively, the Epson SureColor G6070 DTF Printer is a dedicated wide-format DTF powerhouse with a 35.4-inch print width. It utilizes UltraChrome DF inks that are OEKO-TEX certified for safety and non-toxicity, ensuring your retail-ready results are safe for everyone.
Essential Finishing Equipment and Supplies
Direct to film printing is more than just the printer; your finishing process determines the longevity and feel of your garments. Curing is a time and temperature process that requires precision. The DTF Station Miro 36 Shaker & Supply Bundle - 36in automates the powdering and curing stage, which is essential for consistent film adhesion and durability. This system uses advanced heating technology to efficiently melt powder, resulting in sharper transfers with less waste.
To keep your transfers looking vibrant wash after wash, use premium consumables like Ryonet DTF Film - Hot Peel Roll. This film is designed for a quick release hot-peel process, significantly speeding up your workflow. Pairing high-quality film with OmniPrint Direct Ink: DTF Plus - Ink Set ensures superior white ink opacity and color brightness. We also offer specific liters such as OmniPrint Direct Ink: DTF Plus - White or individual CMYK colors.
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Shop Maintenance for Long-Term Success
DTF printers require regular maintenance to protect your investment and maintain print quality. The OmniPrint DTF Direct Ink Super Cleaner is designed for daily maintenance to prevent buildup in your system. For deeper issues like head clogs, the OmniPrint DTF Direct Ink Super Nozzle Cleaner provides a deep-cleaning formula to keep your nozzles free-flowing. Don't forget that using Printer Cleaning Swabs with non-abrasive tips will allow you to reach delicate parts without scratching sensitive surfaces.
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The Foundation of the Finish: Your Heat Press Setup Matters
You can have the most expensive printer in the world, but if your heat press setup is inconsistent, your transfers will fail. Direct to film printing relies on a precise combination of time, temperature, and pressure to drive the adhesive into the fibers of the garment. Without a professional-grade press, you risk issues like peeling after the first wash or "scorched" fabrics from uneven heating elements.
For shops focused on reliability, the George Knight DK20S Digital Heat Transfer Press - 16x20in with Swing-Away is a industry staple. The swing-away design provides a heat-free workspace for laying out your transfers, ensuring you don't accidentally "pre-cure" the film before the press is closed. If you prefer a smaller footprint, the George Knight DK16 Digital Clamshell Heat Transfer Press - 14x16in offers the same commercial-grade heating accuracy in a compact frame.
High-volume shops often turn to automation to reduce operator fatigue and increase consistency. The Stahls' Hotronix® Fusion IQ® Heat Press, 16x20 features advanced touchscreen technology that allows you to program specific presets for different fabric types, while the Stahls' Hotronix® Air Fusion IQ® Heat Press, 16x20 uses pneumatic pressure to ensure every single shirt receives the exact same force, regardless of the operator. For specialty items like headwear, using a dedicated press like the Stahls' Hotronix® 360 IQ® Cap Press ensures you are heating the crown and the bill correctly without creasing the hat.
Don’t overlook the accessories that keep your workflow moving. Small tools like Stahls' Thermo-Tape are essential for securing small transfers in place so they don't shift when you close the press. If you are working on a standard table, adding a Stahls' Hotronix Heat Press Caddie can make your press mobile and adjustable, which is a lifesaver during long production runs, or for workspace flexibility.
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Integrating DTF into your shop doesn't have to be overwhelming. By starting with the right direct to film printers & equipment, you can streamline your process, reduce manual labor, and focus on what matters most: growing your business. Whether you need a full bundle or essential supplies, we are here to support your production every step of the way.
Ready to upgrade your shop's capabilities? Explore our Direct to Film Collection today and find the perfect fit for your workflow.