Still envious of others making amazing printed t-shirts with DTF printing? It’s bitter that you don’t have a DTF printer. Now, you can too! Convert your prinprintprinter to DTF.
Before you start, you must ensure your printer is compatible with DTF printing. You can consult your machine manufacturer. If it’s not supported, you may need a new printer to convert.
If everything is ready, buckle up for our conversion journey.
Evaluate your printer for DTF conversion
- Model suitability: The most important thing to verify is that your printer model is compatible with DTF printing hardware.
- Official Support: Find official information or consult the manufacturer for information on whether your printer is DTF convertible.
- Resolution Requirements: It is recommended that your printer has a resolution of 1440 DPI and above to ensure sharp, detailed print images.
- Ink compatibility: Make sure your printer is compatible with DTF ink printing. Incompatibility can lead to damage to the printer and poor print quality.
- Conversion budget: Evaluate how much you can afford to spend on a conversion kit.
Tools and materials required for conversion
Tools
- Screwdriver: removes housing and internal component screws.
- Plastic pry bar: to remove plastic parts.
- Tweezers: to handle springs or snaps.
- Dust-free cloth: cleans dust and ink inside the printer.
- Cleaning Solution: Cleans the print head and internal components.
- Anti-static bracelet: Wear an anti-static bracelet to prevent static electricity from damaging sensitive parts.
- Camera: Record the disassembly process for reference when reassembling.
DTF Conversion Kit
- DTF Ink: Special ink for DTF to ensure vibrant colors in the pattern.
- DTF Transfer Film: Film used for design printing and transfer.
- DTF Powder: Bonding inks and fabrics.
- RIP Software: Specialised software to create and process designs.
DTF Conversion Step-by-Step Guide
- Step 1: Remove the outer cover and disconnect the internal cable.
- Step 2: Remove the ink cartridge, carefully disassemble the print head, and clean it.
- Step 3: Remove the paper feed unit.
- Step 4: Remove the motherboard (if necessary).
- Step 5: Record each step with the camera.
- Step 6: Installing the DTF Print Head (for machines that require a print head replacement).
- Step 7: Install the Continuous Ink Supply System (CISS) or replace the cartridges with DTF-specific cartridges.
- Step 8: Install a heated platen that can withstand the heat required to transfer DTF film.
- Step 9: Install and secure the transfer film holder.
- Step 10: Adjust the printer firmware and software settings for DTF printing.
- Step 11: Perform a test print to ensure that the hardware is functioning properly and the print quality is as expected.
- Step 12: Test for proper reassembly of the printer, replacing all removed covers and components.
- Step 13: Dispose of all old parts and clean up your workspace.
You can likewise refer to this video for DTF conversion for printers.
Solving common problems
After successfully converting your printer to DTF, you may encounter some problems. This section highlights a list of common problems and solutions.
Printhead Clogging
- Regularly clean the printheads with a cleaning solution.
- Keep printing regularly to ensure that the ink in the nozzles does not dry out.
- Choose a high-quality ink with low sedimentation.
- Stir the ink before printing to prevent settling.
Print Quality
- Streaks in printing: Check the ink tubes for air bubbles or insufficient ink. Use the printer nozzle test to find clogged nozzles.
- Inaccurate colors: Ensure that the correct ink is used and that the correct color profile is used.
- Uneven printing: Adjust the height of the print head to ensure that the transfer film unit is correctly leveled.
Conclusion
Printer conversion bit DTF follows these steps.
- Make sure your printer supports the conversion and preparation tool kit.
- Remove the printer, install the DTF components correctly, and modify the ink supply system.
- Secure DTF-specific print software and perform a print test.
Pro tip：
- Keep up to date with the latest DTF printing technology to optimize your printing results.
- Regularly run and maintain the printer, clean the printheads, and replace old accessories to ensure your printing business lasts.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is DTF printing?
DTF is a technique where designs are printed directly onto a transfer film and then transferred to a variety of fabrics using a heat press. To learn more about it, you can read this article, ‘What Is DTF Printing.’
Can I convert any printer to DTF?
No, printers must be compatible with specific modifications and hardware to handle DTF printing.
What types of printers are suitable for DTF conversion?
Inkjet printers with DTF-compliant ink systems are usually suitable. Popular models include the Epson 8550 l1800 P600 P800 printers.
Can I convert a laser printer to DTF?
No, laser printers cannot be converted to DTF.
Can I use regular ink for DTF printing?
No. Specialized DTF inks must be used for printing to ensure print quality.
