Could I print t-shirts at home? The answer to this question is “YES”. You can buy a DTF printer online and customize your garments at home. You can even start a small home-based business with an affordable printer. If you buy a printer that is compatible with third-party supplies and has automatic features, you can start a small business at an affordable price.
Why DTF makes sense for small businesses?
DTF seamlessly connects the difference between the quality of the garment and the ease of operation. The technology allows the user to print bright, durable to wash prints for cotton, polyester fabrics, and blends, thus enabling the user to support short runs and one-off custom jobs. Additionally, no special pretreatment is needed as in the case of some DTG setups. In a great number of the small brands, such versatility is equated with quicker turnaround, smaller order sizes, and a wider range of products. Industry rundowns and buyer guides show DTF continues to be a top choice for new apparel entrepreneurs. Here’s a detailed guide to help you choose the right garment printer:
1. Start with small batches
It is better to start small so that you understand the basics of garment printing. The DTF LOTUS II MAX Direct-to-Film Printer is the right choice for a small business. Its approximate cost is $6,644.99 and comes with personalized training and support. Its DUAL industrial printheads can print 35 sqft/per hour. The brand also offers a 6-month warranty.
2. Prioritize print quality and resolution
A garment printer is known by its designs. For this reason, seasoned printers always prefer machines that offer a resolution of at least 1440 dpi. You can trust the Roland BY-20 DTF Printer. It can print 25 sqft/per hour at 1440×1440 dpi and produces sharp details, smooth gradients, and vibrant colors. You can check samples before buying. It costs around $9,000 and comes with a one-year warranty.
3. Consider size and output capacity
You need affordable DTF printers for small businesses. You need DTFLine VANTAGE II MAX 14-inch DTF Printer. It measures 31″ x 19″ x 13″ and weighs 72 lbs. It is a plug-and-play machine that can print up to 100 t-shirts per hour. However, the real output depends on the size and complexity of the design. You can buy it for $5,999.99.
4. Ink and Film Compatibility
Garment printers spend a substantial amount on consumables, especially PET films, inks, and adhesive powder. However, you can save some money on consumables by investing in readily available material. For this, you will need a printer compatible with third-party consumables. You can consider DTF MAXi 17″ DTF Printer. It scores high on every factor, from print speed to quality. It is available for $8,399.99.
5. Software and Colour Management
DTF printers require RIP software for printing. While most printers come packed with software, some brands allow downloading third-party software into their machines. You can invest in the DTF 24″ V2 PANTHERA 2×2 printing machine. It has the latest software and other features that help produce sharp prints on garments of all sizes and fabrics. It costs around $11,999.99.
6. Durability and Maintenance
A DTF printer is your investment. If you take care of it, you get a high return in the long run. The DTFLine VANTAGE II MAX 14-inch DTF Printer is the best choice because it needs little maintenance. You even get a quick maintenance kit with the machine. The brand also offers personalised training and support to maintain the machine.
Models & vendor types to consider
Entry/hobby to light commercial: Compact A3/A4 rollers and conversion kits are the cheapest and fine for occasional orders or samples. They require more hands-on care and slower finishing, but lower upfront cost. (Examples appear frequently in starter bundles from online resellers.)
Mid-range small business: Mid-format DTF printers with industrial heads and better white systems are the sweet spot for many small brands. DTG Pro DTF-optimized SureColor family (and hybrid models) are widely recommended for their head reliability, certified inks, and reseller networks. These balance quality, uptime, and support for scaling operations.
Production/high volume: If you plan to print hundreds of garments a week, look at wide-format, roll-to-roll production DTF systems and automated finishing lines. These cost more up front but reduce labor and per-print time. Several industry lists identify higher-end Ricoh, Mimaki, and industrial DTF variants in this tier.
Conclusion
You can choose the best DTF printers for t-shirts from the above-mentioned machines or shop for more options using the blog as a checklist of important factors. A desktop-sized printer with industrial printing capacity can give a good start to your business.
