This is one of the most frequently asked questions compared to any other questions our customers may ask, especially when they are planning to switch from screen printing to DTF printing. I understand why they want to know the exact printing cost and every potential cost that may occur. They have seen how the digital trend has changed the industry over the years and are eager to catch up. We will share more information about DTF printing costs in detail, and we will do our best to ensure that all our readers understand the various aspects that may generate costs. Let’s start with the consumables.
How does DTF printing work?
It is neccessary to explain the DTF printing process, in canse that you haven’t seen the working flow of the DTF printing. DTF printers is jsut like other inkjet printers or banner printers, the magic that makes DTF printers differnent is the film, powder and the water based ink it print. DTF printing involves printing a design onto PET film (the film with a ahesive coating to help transfer designs) and the film applied with DTF powder. Then, the design on the PET film is heat-transferred to fabric using a heat press.
How much ink and powder does DTF printing take?
Now, let’s test the real dtf ink and dtf powder usage during DTF printing. I prepare a 12″×12“ size t-shirt design, and i will print it and apply the dtf powder on it i will show you the film weight after print and after applied powder, you will see the weight increase and calculate the consumptions of ech item.
We weighed a sheet of blank 12″×12“ DTF transfer film. It was 10 grams.
It became 1.7 grams heavier after printing. 0.9 gram of white ink and 0.9 grams of CMYK ink was used.
And 6 grams weight from powder adding up to a total of 14.9 grams, 3.2 grams of powder applied on the film.
While printing a sample for a Colombian client, he inquired about the ink and powder consumption to print a 12″ × 12″ design. In response, we conducted a test specifically for him. It is not just a test for us, but also a motive that enhances our understanding as a DTF printer manufacturer dedicated to delivering superior printing solutions.
Watch the complete test video below. If you have any questions or would like more information, please feel free to reach out to us.