If you own an Epson printer and are looking to venture into the world of DTF (Direct-to-Film) printing, you’ve come to the right place. You could save time and money by converting your current printer to its full capacity, which will also increase your printing options. But, which Epson printer can be converted to DTF? We will walk you through the process of selecting the ideal Epson printer for DTF conversion in this post, including helpful information on which models are suitable and why. This guide will enable DIY enthusiasts and company owners confidently start DTF printing.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Printer for DTF Conversion
There are a number of crucial elements to take into account when selecting a printer for DTF conversion. Making the appropriate decision will ensure optimum performance, print quality, and DTF printing process compatibility. Here are the key factors to keep in mind:
- Print Size and Resolution: Consider the printer’s utmost print dimensions and resolution. Larger print areas are often needed for DTF printing, therefore choosing a printer with a wide format or big format printing option is advantageous. A greater resolution also ensures crisper prints with better details.
- Ink Compatibility: Check if the printer is compatible with DTF inks. DTF inks provide good adherence and vivid colors on film since they are especially made for this printing method. Make that the printer is capable of using the exact ink needed for DTF printing.
- Durability and Reliability: DTF printing may need high-volume printing or continuous operation. A reliable printer with a strong build and a good track record will make sure that printing goes smoothly and without problems.
- Media Handling: Think about how well the printer can deal with different kinds of films and media. DTF printing requires transferring ink onto a film, therefore the printer should be able to handle the thickness and size of the film.
- Connectivity and Software Compatibility: The printer should support USB, Ethernet, or Wi-Fi, depending on your needs. Additionally, make sure the printer is compatible with the design and software applications you want to use for DTF printing.
- Cost and Value: Consider the whole cost of the printer, including the purchase price, ink charges, and maintenance costs. Consider the printer’s features, capabilities, and durability to select a budget-friendly and printing-needs-matching choice.
- Support and Resources: Do some research into the availability of technical support, firmware upgrades, and other resources like online forums or communities that may help with the DTF conversion process and any potential difficulties.
By carefully considering these factors, you can choose an Epson printer that is well-suited for DTF conversion, ensuring a smooth transition to DTF printing and maximizing the quality and efficiency of your printing endeavors.
Can You Print DTF on Epson Printer?
Yes, it is possible to print DTF (Direct-to-Film) on certain Epson printers. However, not all Epson printers support DTF printing. To achieve optimum performance and print quality while using DTF printing, the printer must undergo precise changes and adjustments.
You must make adjustments to an Epson printer in order to make it suitable for DTF printing, such as adding a DTF-specific ink system and a unique film feeding mechanism. To improve the printing process for DTF applications, you might want to change the printer’s firmware and settings.
It’s important to note that depending on the printer model and its features, Epson printer compatibility for DTF conversion might change. The Epson SureColor P600, P800, Eco tank 8550, P900, L1800 and XP-15000 are a few well-known Epson printer types that businesses use for DTF conversion.
We strongly advise you to do extensive study, carefully follow the provided instructions, or seek expert help before trying to convert your Epson printer for DTF printing. This ensures that the conversion procedure goes properly and the printer works well for DTF printing.
DTF Conversion Process for Epson Printers
To achieve optimum performance and print quality, converting Epson printer for DTF (Direct-to-Film) printing requires special modifications and changes. Here is a step-by-step tutorial for Epson printers’ DTF conversion procedure:
Getting the Printer Ready
- Before starting the conversion process, make sure your printer is dust- and debris-free. During conversion and DTF printing, this will preserve print quality.
- Gather necessary tools and materials: Gather all the equipment and supplies needed for the conversion, such as the DTF ink system, the film feeding mechanism, the modified cartridges, and any other add-ons necessary for the particular printer type.
Installing Upgrades and Modifications
- Switch over the current ink system with a DTF-specific ink system. This can include taking out the original ink cartridges and replacing them with customized cartridges made for DTF ink.
- Film Feeding Mechanism: To handle DTF films efficiently, you might need to install a customized film feeding mechanism, depending on the printer type. Installing the film feeding mechanism properly requires following the manufacturer’s instructions or recommendations.
Setting Up the Printer for DTF Printing
- Firmware upgrades: To ensure DTF printing compatibility and access to the newest features and optimizations, check for and install printer firmware upgrades.
- Software Settings: Adjust your computer’s operating system and printing software’s printer settings to comply with DTF printing specifications. To improve print quality, change settings for medium, print resolution, and color management.
Test Prints and Calibration
- Perform Test Prints: After establishing the parameters, test print on DTF film to assess print quality and ink adherence. If necessary, make any modifications to the printer’s settings or film feeding system.
- Calibration: To ensure correct color reproduction and print consistency, calibrate the printer as necessary using the proper calibration equipment or software.
Best Epson Printer to Convert to DTF
When it comes to changing an Epson printer for Direct-to-Film (DTF) printing, several types have shown that they work well and are compatible for this purpose. The following 8 Epson printer types are popular and appropriate for DTF conversion:
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| Image | Epson DTF Convertible Printers | Features | Price |
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Let’s look at the conversion process of a few Epson printers.
How to Convert Epson Printer to DTF?
1. Convert Epson 8550 to DTF
- Gather the necessary materials: Epson EcoTank 8550 printer, DTF ink, DTF film, and DTF transfer adhesive.
- Open the printer and remove unnecessary parts, such as wheels, to prepare it for DTF conversion.
- Fill the printer’s ink tanks with DTF ink. The ink order is typically white, white, cyan, yellow, magenta, and black.
- Download the necessary software, such as CadLink, to configure the printer for DTF printing.
- Perform a print head nozzle check to ensure proper ink flow and quality.
- Load the DTF film into the printer, making sure to place the matte side up (printing side).
- Use the software to print the desired design onto the DTF film.
- After printing, apply the DTF transfer adhesive powder to the printed film by sprinkling it and shaking it to coat the entire image.
- The DTF film is now ready for transfer onto garments or other items using a heat press or similar method.
2. Epson L1800 Conversion
- Remove the small rollers in the printer to prevent ink smudging. It is recommended to remove most of the rollers, except for the ones on the sides that do not affect print quality.
- Use a thin, sturdy tool like a metal spatula to support the roller from below and remove it using long-nose pliers. Repeat this step for all the rollers.
- Create a flat platform for the film to rest on as it comes out of the printer. You can achieve it using materials like cardboard, plasterboard, foam board, plastic, or wood.
- Ensure the built-in waste ink tank does not get overfilled. Drill a small hole in the plastic cover of the waste ink tank and attach a tube (e.g., an old aquarium tube) to redirect the waste ink into a separate container, such as a plastic bottle.
- Fill the printer’s ink tanks with cyan, magenta, white, black, and yellow inks. After starting the printer, it will go through an ink sequence and pump the ink into the system.
- Clean the printer head a few times before starting the printing process.
- Shake the ink bottles gently to prevent settling of the white ink, as it contains titanium. Vigorous shaking may introduce air bubbles into the system, which can cause issues.
- It is not necessary to have a white ink circulation system or special dampers, as long as the printer is used daily and the ink is properly shaken or turned regularly.
- This conversion method is simple and we can do it at home without requiring special equipment or parts. Paying thousands of pounds to companies for the same conversion is considered unnecessary.
- Modified printer can print without leaving any marks, even when the rollers pass over the wet ink.
3. Convert Epson XP-15000 to DTF
- Start by obtaining a brand new Epson XP-15000 printer.
- Remove the two screws that secure the printer casing.
- Install third-party refillable ink cartridges with one-time-use chips or consider using a continuous ink circulation system with multi-use chips or chipless firmware.
- Place the ink colors accordingly, such as CMYK in the respective slots and fill gray and red with white ink.
- Turn on the printer and wait for the print head to start moving.
- Unplug the printer from the power source to unlock the printhead for manual movement.
- Remove the upper roller assembly by unscrewing the two screws to prevent ink smudging during film printing.
- Replace the original complex cartridges with simpler refillable cartridges that use a foam block to avoid issues with white ink.
- In case of any white ink printing problems, apply a few drops of DTF cleaning liquid to the printhead and let it soak for 20 minutes.
- Move the printhead all the way to the left, allowing easy removal of the roller assembly.
- Make sure to use rip software compatible with the printer, such as Acrylic 10 or EK Rip Studio, which support this model.
- Enjoy the excellent print quality and faster printing speed compared to other printers like Epson L1800.
- Note that the printer has some drawbacks, such as an awkward paper feed that may bend the film and difficulties accepting transparencies or thick paper.
- Consider disassembling the printer to address the paper feed issue, and explore options to bypass the built-in ink tank by drilling a hole and attaching an external waste ink line.
- Keep in mind that as a newer model, this printer requires a newer version of rip software, which might be more expensive.
4. Epson P600 to DTF
- Begin by turning the printer around and removing four screws located on the back.
- Slide out the component that comes out easily after removing the screws.
- Identify two tubes running from the capping station and remove the clamps holding them in place.
- Obtain tubing and a white tip (T-tip) of the appropriate size. Insert the tubing onto the existing tubes.
- Run the tubing to a waste tank or an empty bottle to collect the ink.
- Remove the pizza rollers by opening the front tray and pushing the gray lever until it goes down. This allows easier access to the inside of the printer. Push down on the rollers until they pop out and remove them all.
- Replace the ink cartridges with refillable ink cartridges. One set of cartridges should be filled with a cleaning solution, and the other set with DTF inks.
- Perform an ink charge by using the Epson P600 adjustment program. Open the adjustment mode, go to ink charge, and select the initial ink charge option. This will clean the printhead and the ink lines.
- After completing the ink charge, insert the second set of ink cartridges containing DTF inks. Perform nozzle cleanings and checks until satisfied with the results.
- If an error message regarding the ink pad being full appears, download the WIC Reset software to reset the ink pad.
- To prevent head strikes during printing, use small foam pads to keep the printhead elevated and prevent it from hitting the ink. Install these foam pads strategically to ensure smooth movement of the printhead.
Is It Possible To Convert A Laser Printer To DTF?
No, it is not possible to convert a laser printer to DTF (Direct-to-Film) printing. Inkjet printers are utilized for DTF printing, although laser printers employ a different printing method.
For DTF printing, ink from special DTF colors is put on a film, which is then put on the chosen material. Using a laser beam and toner cartridges, laser printers employ heat to transfer pictures to paper.
Inkjet printers include the ink system, film feeding mechanism, and other changes needed for DTF printing. The parts or mechanisms required to support DTF printing are not present in laser printers.
If you’re interested in DTF printing, look into Epson inkjet printers that support DTF conversion.
What Are The Benefits Of Converting Epson to DTF?
Savings: DTF printing does not need the usual screen printing settings, which include chemicals, emulsion, and screens. This can save a lot of money in terms of supplies and work.
Versatility: You can create prints on a variety of substrates using DTF printing, including textiles, plastics, ceramics, and more. It lets you make different kinds of goods and print on different kinds of surfaces.
High-Quality Prints: DTF printing enables high-resolution prints with vibrant colors and intricate details. It offers a smooth and reliable ink transfer onto the substrate and improves color accuracy control.
Faster Turnaround: Since DTF printing does not need screen preparation or drying time, manufacturing turnaround is sped up. Businesses that need fast printing and delivery of customized items might benefit from this.
Small Batch Printing: DTF printing is ideal for small to medium-sized print runs. Without a screen setup or a minimum order quantity, it enables the cost-effective printing of small quantities.
Customization and personalization: DTF printing lets you customize and personalize each print, so you can make designs that are one-of-a-kind and fit your needs. Variable data printing is possible, enabling the addition of unique names or numbers to items.
Durability: When done right, DTF images last a long time and don’t get ruined when they get wet. They are durable enough to endure many washings and retain their quality and color brightness over time.
Eco-Friendly: DTF printing removes screens and screen preparation chemicals, reducing waste. This makes it a printing choice that is less harmful to the environment.
Disadvantages of Converting printers into DTF
While converting printers to DTF (Direct-to-Film) printing can provide a number of advantages, it is important to consider the potential drawbacks and difficulties associated with the conversion process. Here are some drawbacks to consider:
Warranty Voidance: Modifying your printer for DTF printing could invalidate the manufacturer’s warranty. You’re liable for repairs or replacements if you alter the printer’s ink system or other parts.
Technical expertise Necessary: Technical expertise and abilities are normally needed to convert a printer to DTF printing. It requires disassembly, installation, and printer settings. Without knowledge or competence, conversion may be difficult or provide unsatisfactory outcomes.
Limited Printer Compatibility: For select printer types, such as some Epson printers, DTF conversion possibilities are more easily accessible. DTF printing could be difficult or impossible with other printer brands or models due to a lack of conversion resources.
Potential Print Quality Problems: DTF printing depends on the correct settings for the printer, film feeding, and ink. Poor conversion or printer calibration can lead to ink smearing, variable print quality, and poor color accuracy.
Cost of Modifications: Upgrading a printer to print DTF may need the purchase of extra components such DTF ink systems, altered cartridges, film feeding mechanisms, and calibration equipment. These expenditures and conversion time and effort should be considered.
Upkeep and troubleshooting: DTF printing could need regular upkeep and troubleshooting. Clogged printheads and film feeding issues might need extra maintenance and downtime for troubleshooting and repairs.
Limited Support and Resources: DTF printing is a very specialized technology compared to conventional printing techniques. Compared to conventional printing technologies, DTF-related difficulties may have less resources, tutorials, and community assistance.
Conclusion | Convert Epson Printer to DTF
In conclusion, switching to DTF (Direct-to-Film) printing saves money, improves print quality, and speeds up production. However, voiding warranties, technical skill, printer compatibility, and print quality difficulties are possible downsides.
It is important to carefully consider the printer type, the change method, and each person’s printing needs. Converting an Epson printer to DTF should be based on study, advantages and downsides, and accessible resources and assistance.
FAQs
No, not all printers can be easily converted to DTF. The conversion process is typically more common and available for certain printer models, such as select Epson printers. It’s important to research and identify compatible printer models and available conversion resources before proceeding.
Yes, the manufacturer’s warranty voids if you alter your printer to print DTF. Altering the ink system or other components usually voids warranty coverage, leaving you liable for repairs or replacements.
Yes, converting a printer to DTF printing often requires technical knowledge and skills. It involves disassembling parts, installing modified components, and adjusting printer settings. If you lack experience or expertise, seek professional assistance or consider purchasing a dedicated DTF printer.
Some challenges include limited printer compatibility, potential print quality issues if the conversion is not executed accurately, the cost of modifications and additional materials, the need for regular maintenance and troubleshooting, and the limited support and resources available compared to mainstream printing methods.
Reverting the printer back to its original state may not be feasible or straightforward after DTF conversion. It is crucial to thoroughly consider the conversion process, potential irreversible modifications, and the impact on the printer’s functionality before proceeding with the conversion.
For certain printer models, DTF conversion kits or instructions are indeed available. However, depending on the exact printer brand and model, these kits may not be readily available or compatible with all printers. We advise you to do some study and find the right conversion tools for your particular printer model.
The decision depends on factors such as your budget, printing requirements, technical expertise, and long-term plans. If you are uncertain about the conversion process or lack technical skills, purchasing a dedicated DTF printer that is designed and optimized for DTF printing may be a more suitable option.
While it is possible to achieve high-quality prints with a properly converted printer, dedicated DTF printers are specifically designed for this printing method and may offer more optimized features and functionalities. However, with the right modifications, calibration, and settings, a converted printer can produce satisfactory DTF prints.
Epson SureColor P600
Epson SureColor P800
Epson Ecotank 850
Epson L1800
Epson SureColor P700
Epson SureColor P900
Epson XP-15000
Ashley Wang is a skilled sales manager with knowledge in DTF printing. She presently works for ShenLan Digital, a reputable DTF printer maker. Ashley is the best person to offer advice on selecting the most suitable DTF printer because she has tested a lot of them. She launched DTFPrinterSchool to educate individuals and organisations about DTF printing technology, providing her expertise and observations on the most recent advancements in the sector. Ashley is an invaluable resource for businesses and individuals wishing to invest in DTF printing technology because of her expertise and experience in the industry.