Segment
DTF printing for textile printing and customization
DTF (Direct to Film) printing prints the design onto PET film using pigment ink, applies adhesive powder, and transfers it to the fabric using a heat press, working on cotton, polyester, and blended fabrics, light or dark, without requiring screens. On TEKNOVA's PRIME DTF Têxtil 60X, with two Epson i3200-A1 printheads and an output of 10 m²/h, a 60 cm linear meter costs R$ 15.14 in media.
DTF solves the main bottleneck of on-demand printing: printing a single piece on any fabric color without screen preparation and without minimum order quantities.
The decision between the 30X and 60X models comes down to volume and artwork width. The 30X handles starter production and smaller artwork; the 60X doubles film width and sustains continuous production with an automatic take-up reel.
Recommended machine
PRIME Textile DTF 60X: on-demand printing
The PRIME DTF 60X prints on 60 cm film with two Epson i3200-A1 printheads and transfers to cotton, polyester, and blended fabrics, on light or dark garments, without screens and without minimum order quantities.
- 10 m²/h production with up to 1440 dpi resolution
- Linear meter of 60 cm at R$ 15.14 in media
- Pre- and post-print heater with independent control
- Front take-up system with dual automatic motors
Technical comparison
| Specification | Textile DTF Printer PRIME 60X | Textile DTF Printer PRIME 30X | PRIME 180X i3200 Sublimation Printer — 2 Printheads |
|---|---|---|---|
| Printhead | 2 x Epson i3200 A1 | 2 x Epson i1600 A1 | 2 Epson i3200 A1 printheads |
| Resolution | Up to 1440 dpi | Up to 1440 dpi | Up to 1440 dpi |
| Speed | Output: 10m²/h (360x10800dpi) | Output: 6m²/h | 4 passes: 44m²/h |
| Price per linear meter of 60cm x 100cm | R$ 15.14 | R$ 15.14 | — |
| RIP Software | Sai PhotoPrint or FlexiPrint | Sai PhotoPrint or FlexiPrint | Sai PhotoPrint or FlexiPrint |
| Power supply | 220V | 220V | 220V |
Sublimation
PRIME 180X i3200 Sublimation Printer — 2 Printheads
1.80 m sublimation printer with dual i3200 printheads.
Explore machineHow to produce a DTF print from file to t-shirt
- Step 1
Prepare the file
Generate the artwork in the RIP in CMYK with a white layer, mirrored for transfer.
- Step 2
Print on film
Print the color layer and white layer onto the PET film.
- Step 3
Apply powder
Cover the wet printed area with adhesive powder and remove the excess.
- Step 4
Cure
Place the film in the heater until the powder forms a uniform coating.
- Step 5
Transfer
Press onto the fabric at the recommended time and temperature, then peel the film.
Frequently asked questions — Textile sector
How much does DTF printing cost per meter?
On the PRIME DTF Têxtil 60X, a 60 cm linear meter costs R$ 15.14 and a 30 cm linear meter costs R$ 7.57, considering media consumption.
Does DTF work on cotton and polyester?
Yes. DTF transfers onto cotton, polyester, and blended fabrics, on light or dark garments, without requiring screens.
What is the output of the DTF PRIME 60X?
Around 10 m²/h in production mode, with two Epson i3200-A1 heads and up to 1440 dpi resolution.
DTF or sublimation: which one to choose?
Sublimation requires light-colored fabric with high polyester content. DTF prints on any color and composition, making it more versatile for uniforms and cotton t-shirts.
What is the difference between textile DTF and UV DTF?
Textile DTF transfers to fabric using a heat press. UV DTF cures via ultraviolet light and produces transfer stickers for rigid surfaces, without a heat press.