DTF printing is more and more popular, and more and more people want to buy DTF printers to start their printing business or sell DTF printers, whatever you want to do with DTF printer, there are something you should know before you buy a DTF printer.
What is DTF printing?
Direct to film (DTF) printing is a process of transferring the patterns onto textile without pre-treatment, it can print on any fabrics and can applied in many fields, such as bags, shoes, clothes, mouse pads, umbrella, etc. Recently DTF printing is widely used in household and business, you should know about what print head your machine adopts, what ink is right for your DTF printer, what RIP software your DTF printer matches? how to do the maintenance, how it works? how long to change the print head, and how to install the machine. Even though it is easily operated the DTF printer, you still need to really know your DTF printer, or you will meet some problems in the work process.
What To know When Buying a New DTF Printer?
Buying a DTF printer is a no-brainer, clearly know the specifics of the DTF printer is complex. Here are somethings you should make sense when making your purchase decision.
Size: It is important to choose a DTF printer that fits your workspace. If you have a small space, you can go with a 12-inch printer. It is also important to note that the size of your DTF printer also has a bearing on the size of garments you can print on.
Software Compatibility: Clearly know what RIP software your buying DTF printer matches, or what system computers matches? should be compatible with the DTF printer you chose to purchase. This is something that you should consider and make sure of.
Power Requirements: DTF printers are electrical components, there need to ensure that they are compatible with your available power supply. The last thing you would want is to short circuit your printer.
G7 Certification: Your DTF printer needs to be compliant with G7 color standards. The reason for this is that all the other consumables and software are designed using the G7 color guidelines. Your printer needs to be compliant to ensure great end-product quality.
Warranty: You need a warranty for your printer. This is important as there is always a probability of a technical fault with your DTF printer as it is with all the other printers. There is a need to ensure that there is a remedy if a problem arises.
How to Heat Press Your DTF Print?
Heat pressing is one of the most important elements of the DTF printing process. It would be easier if you have a curing oven, all you have to do is placing your PET film and adhesive power mix in the curing oven. This is one of the easiest ways to melt the print as you can timely switch the temperature.
If you do not have access to a curing oven, a heating press still work. Just make sure that there is no direct contact between the film and the heat press. Keep 4-7mm distance.
Once the film has been heated, the print can be transferred to the fabric. This is the whole process of DTF printing heating process. The process uses a heat press to transfer the print on the film to the fabric. The process is 15-20 seconds long and is done at an extremely high temperature of up to 170 degrees Celsius.
How To Make Your DTF Prints?
It’s easy to get the final print and create the print. Firstly choose the software that your DTF printer matches. Make sure that you choose the correct dimensions during design. This helps to avoid image distortion, during design transfer.
DTF could print on various fabric material. Non-treated cotton, silk, polyester, denim, nylon, leather, 50/50 blend are all compatible with DTF printing. One thing that is important to ensure that whatever material, you choose can withstand the 170 degrees delicious threshold during curing.
DTF ink and powders should also be compatible with your printer . Consumables have a huge influence on the final product quality.
How To Wash Your DTF Prints?
The DTF print is sensitive to harsh conditions. That is high temperatures and high rpm washing cycles. This means that care needs to be taken during washing. Makes sure that before you wash your garments, they are turned inside out.
Set the washing machine RPM are set to medium, that is 600-800 RPM. It is also important to ensure that the washing temperature is set to between 30-60 degrees Celsius. It is also important to avoid wash periods longer than 1hour.
In terms of detergents, avoid powdered detergents at all costs. The solid granules result in print stress and may result in the print eventually getting damaged. Fabric softener is a straight no. Due to the softener-print interaction; it can be difficult to eliminate bad odor and even dirt. Fabric softeners can also result in accelerated wear of the print. If you want to avoid your DTF print peeling off do not use fabric softener.
In terms of drying, air drying is the best option. Tumble drying is not recommended. During sun drying ensure that the garment remains turned inside out.