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When it comes to custom apparel, whether you already have a business or are planning to start one, you likely have heard about DTF printing. DTF (direct-to-film) is gaining momentum as one of the best printing techniques for customizing t-shirts, hoodies, bags, etc.
This is the ultimate guide to DTF printing, which stands for 'direct-to-film', a much more modern approach than screen printing or heat transfer vinyl, allowing you to transfer vibrant designs from special film onto fabric using heat and pressure. The results are long-lasting, rich in detail and colourful. But the best part is that DTF Printing applies to all fabrics, including cotton, polyester, blend, and dark colours.
However, to begin with this, you need an ideal DTF printer. This blog will discuss the top DTF printers for custom apparel businesses in 2025, particularly for small to medium businesses.
1. Epson L1800 – Budget-Friendly Starter
If you’re just getting into DTF printing, the Epson L1800 is a great option. It’s affordable, reliable, and widely used in the DTF community.
Why it’s good:
- Great print quality for beginners
- Easy to modify for DTF printing
- Works well for small orders and trials
Keep in mind: It’s slower compared to high-end models, so it’s best for low to medium workloads.
2. Epson SureColor P600/P700 – Pro-Level Quality
Epson is known for its color quality, and the SureColor P600 or P700 models deliver professional results. These printers are widely used by serious custom apparel businesses.
Why it’s good:
- Vivid color output
- Good for detailed and complex designs
- Compatible with a wide range of DTF inks
Keep in mind: You may need to convert or modify it for DTF use. It’s a little pricier but worth it for better performance.
3. STS VJ-628D – True DTF Printer (No Modification Needed)
If you want a printer built specifically for DTF, the STS VJ-628D is a great choice. It’s a professional-grade DTF printer that comes ready to use—no modifications needed.
Why it’s good:
- Ready to use out of the box
- Faster printing speed
- Works with STS DTF inks and films
- Great for medium to large orders
Keep in mind: It’s more expensive but designed for serious business use.
4. L1800 DTF Printer with Shaker – For Growing Businesses
Some DTF printers come as a full setup with a powder shaker and curing unit. This helps automate the process and saves time.
One popular combo is:
- Epson L1800 DTF Printer
- Auto Powder Shaker
- Curing Oven
Why it’s good:
- Speeds up production
- Less manual work
- Great for bulk orders
Keep in mind: Takes up more space and costs more than a basic setup, but it’s great if your business is growing fast.
5. Procolored A3 DTF Printer – Compact & All-in-One
This is a newer option that many small business owners love. The Procolored A3 DTF printer is compact, efficient, and designed for ease of use.
Why it’s good:
- Built-in white ink circulation
- Compact design for small spaces
- Easy maintenance
- No need for external modifications
Keep in mind: It’s good for medium workloads, but not ideal for heavy industrial use.
Final Tips Before You Buy:
- Always check reviews from real users to understand how the printer performs in the long run.
- Make sure to buy compatible DTF inks and films for the best results.
- Don’t forget to invest in a good heat press—it’s just as important as the printer.
- Consider future upgrades. If you expect your business to grow, choose a printer that can handle more orders over time.
Wrapping up
Choosing the right DTF printer depends on your budget, order volume, and business goals. Whether you're just starting out or scaling up, there’s a DTF printer out there that fits your needs.
DTF printing is changing the game for custom apparel businesses—and with the right setup, your designs can stand out, last long, and bring in happy customers.
