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Starting a custom apparel or printing business is super exciting—you’re diving into the world of creativity, color, and profit. But once you get past the brainstorming and branding, you’ll eventually hit a very real question: What is the best DTF printer for small business?
If you’re asking that, you’re in the right place. We’re going to break it all down—what DTF printing is, why it’s a game-changer, what to look for in a printer, and a few top recommendations to get your shop up and running.
What is DTF Printing?
Before we dive into the best DTF printers, let’s get on the same page.
DTF stands for Direct-to-Film. It’s a printing technique where designs are printed onto a special film, coated with hot-melt adhesive powder, and then transferred to fabric using a heat press.
Sounds complicated? It’s really not.
Here’s the basic DTF workflow:
- You design your artwork (usually in Photoshop, Illustrator, or similar software).
- Print the design onto the DTF film using a DTF printer.
- Apply the adhesive powder.
- Cure it using a heat press or curing oven.
- Press the design onto your fabric.
Why Choose DTF Printing
Let’s be real—when you’re running a small business, every dollar and minute counts. DTF printing has become super popular because:
- It works on cotton, polyester, blends, and more.
- You don’t need pretreatment like DTG (Direct-to-Garment) printing.
- It produces vibrant, long-lasting designs.
- It’s ideal for short runs and on-demand orders.
- And most importantly, the startup cost is lower than many other professional methods.
So now that you know DTF is worth it, let’s talk about which DTF printer is worth your money.
What is the Best DTF Printer?
Alright, let’s dig into the heart of the matter.
When asking what is the best DTF printer for small business, you’re really asking:
- Which printer balances price and performance?
- Is it beginner-friendly?
- Can it scale with my business?
Here are some of the top contenders in 2025 that tick all the right boxes:
L1800 DTF Printer (Epson-based) – Best Budget Option
If you’re just starting out and don’t want to invest thousands, the Epson L1800-based DTF printers are a favorite among beginners.
Why It’s Great
- Very affordable (~$600–$900 with a basic setup)
- Easy to use and maintain
- Produces high-quality prints
Downsides
- Slower print speed (not ideal for bulk orders)
- Smaller format (A3 size)
Best For: Solo entrepreneurs, hobbyists, and small volume printing.
Epson SureColor F2100 (Modified for DTF) – Mid-Tier Powerhouse
Originally made for DTG, many businesses convert this model for DTF printing. While not officially supported for DTF, it has solid performance.
Why It’s Great
- Excellent color fidelity and print quality
- Reliable and well-built
- Can handle moderate production volumes
Downsides
- More expensive ($3,000–$5,000)
- Might need a bit of tinkering if you’re converting for DTF
Best For: Serious small businesses aiming for top-quality prints.
Procolored A3+ DTF Printer – Best All-in-One Package
Procolored’s printers have been gaining traction for their plug-and-play setups, and their A3+ model is an all-in-one kit perfect for small businesses.
Why It’s Great
- Comes with white ink circulation
- Compact size with large capacity
- Built-in oven available in some bundles
Downsides
- Not as fast as industrial models
- Customer support can vary by region
Best For: Small teams that want a user-friendly, ready-to-run system.
STS Mutoh VJ-628D DTF Printer – Best for Scaling Up
Looking to grow fast and need something robust? The STS Mutoh VJ-628D is a professional-level DTF printer designed specifically for this process.
Why It’s Great
- Made for DTF—no conversions necessary
- Faster printing and wider media size
- Paired with reliable STS inks and film
Downsides
- Higher investment (~$8,000–$12,000)
- Might be overkill for tiny shops
Best For: Small businesses planning to scale and handle large volumes.
What to Look for in a DTF Printer
Here’s your quick checklist before you buy:
Print Size: A4 or A3 might be enough now, but if you want to print large graphics, go bigger.
Print Speed: Don’t ignore this. If you get a rush of orders, speed matters.
Ink System: White ink circulation is a must to avoid clogs.
Software Compatibility: Make sure it works with your RIP software (like Acrorip or CADlink).
Support & Community: Choose a printer that has good customer support or an active user group for troubleshooting.
Step-by-Step Guide
If you’re wondering how to jump in, here’s a quick roadmap:
Step 1: Choose Your DTF Printer
Pick one from our list based on your budget and goals.
Step 2: Set Up Your Workspace
You’ll need space for the printer, curing station (or heat press), and ventilation (powder can be dusty).
Step 3: Install Software & Drivers
Use the RIP software provided (or purchased separately) to prepare your designs for DTF printing.
Step 4: Start Printing
Print a test design. Check for color accuracy, alignment, and white ink coverage.
Step 5: Apply Adhesive Powder
Shake the powder evenly, then cure it using a heat press or curing oven.
Step 6: Transfer to Garment
Use your heat press to transfer the film to your chosen fabric—usually around 320°F for 15 seconds.
FAQs
Q: What is the most affordable DTF printer for beginners?
The L1800 DTF printer is a great starter option, offering quality prints at a budget-friendly price.
Q: Do I need special software for DTF printing?
Yes, you’ll need RIP software like Acrorip, CADlink, or DTF Station’s software, which prepares your files for proper color layers and white ink.
Q: How much does it cost to start a DTF printing business?
You can start for as little as $1,000 if you go the DIY route. A more professional setup might cost $5,000–$10,000 including printer, supplies, and heat press.
Q: Is DTF better than DTG for small businesses?
For many small businesses, yes. DTF doesn’t require pretreatment, works on more fabric types, and offers lower upfront costs.
Q: Can I print on black shirts with DTF?
Absolutely. DTF prints look fantastic on dark garments thanks to the white ink underbase.
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