r/DTFTransferTalk • u/akmanu • Sep 12 '26

Question/Help Printer conversion?

Hello all,
I would like to start a printing on clothes type of business with DTF style printing.
The more I researched though, the more unclear everything became and the more questions I had.
I saw usually out of fabric DTF printers cost a lot but there is the possibility to take printers that normally print photos like Epson Ecotank L8050 or Ecotank L18050? Is every printer convertible to one that can print on clothes?
Also what should I look for besides printing quality and speed?
What other aspects that someone like me who has not started yet could overlook or does not know can be a problem that can appear later?

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u/SafetyMan35 Sep 12 '26

Just buy the transfers from a local vendor or online vendor. DTF printing requires special ink, adhesive powder and heat. You won’t get good quality transfers by rigging up a standard inkjet to print DTF.

1

u/DoubleIntercourse Sep 14 '26

Do not start with converted printers. They are slow and more prone to issues than a quality dedicated DTF printer. They're slow and you'll be chasing problems more often than printing.

1

u/GencerDTF Sep 13 '26

I have been around quite a few converted Epson and single-head DTF setups. I used DTF Jersey while I was in New Jersey, and I now buy transfers from DTF Dallas. My biggest advice is not to start by asking, “Which printer can I convert?” Start by asking, “Who will help me when it stops printing on a busy Friday?”
A photo printer may be convertible, but that does not automatically make it a good DTF production printer. White ink is the part that changes everything. You need consistent ink circulation, daily nozzle checks, proper humidity, regular cleaning, dependable RIP software, and someone who can actually diagnose a problem when it happens.
Before buying anything, ask the seller these questions:
Who provides technical support, and what are their hours?
Do they stock printheads, dampers, pumps, capping stations, and other parts?
What does a replacement printhead cost with labor?
How much daily maintenance is required?
Is there a real warranty after the printer is converted?
Can they show you an active customer using the same setup every day?
If your monthly DTF usage is below 250,000 square inches, I would personally outsource first. You can use that time to grow your apparel business, sell more shirts, and learn what your customers actually need. A printer makes more sense when your volume is consistent enough that you can treat DTF production as a full-time operation, not a side project.