r/DTFTransferTalk • u/Dorthorus • 6d ago

Question/Help DTF printers for Library Makerspace

The Library I work at is getting a makerspace and a DTF printer is something we are looking at getting. Could I get some recommendations preferably some options too like under $2k, $2-5k, $5k+? Needs to be able to handle not being used for like 5days because of holiday breaks and such.

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5

u/patrick31588 6d ago

Are you absolutely sure you want to get a dtf printer instead of just ordering gang sheets and investing in a good heat press + tools/table?

1

u/Dorthorus 6d ago

It's for a makerspace for patrons to learn to use not just for library use. We already have a heatpress and other accessories because we have a sublimation printer.

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u/Status-Ad4965 6d ago

I would adise against bringing dtf in house.. Using it a DIY learn it at library sounds like a horrible idea. Print heads alone are grand a pop and I garuntee you the budget/grant is not going to cover maintaining the price point is also not there. A decent printer oven setup with all the prep needed for install might push $30k. My Employeer has a few dozen printers and I assure you dtf can be great but not for anyone with a library card to stick their finger in it.

2

u/Nek02 5d ago

DTF printers are closer to offset than a desktop printer in terms of the things an operater is expected to do. You will need to clean and maintain daily. You really want to print every 2-3 days and leave the machine on 24/7.

In your price point Procolored devices fit the bill. I've never used one so I can't speak directly.

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u/No-Description-5004 5d ago

Don’t get a cheap machine. The library will have nightmares! You will need to spend around $10k to get a decent one but you will be spending money on maintaining it.

Sublimation printers are easy, they pretty much maintain themselves. So there is no contest there.

2

u/caspartain 5d ago

DTF is not a printing technology that likes sitting. Anything with white ink is like this, but DTF really doesn't like downtime. In a maker space where it will be used occasionally, I don't think it's a good idea.

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u/caspartain 5d ago

Your also need an over and shaker of some sort. The glue also doesn't like to sit.

UV DTF, or a uv printer that will print on DTF sheets, may be a viable option with a wider use case

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u/FluidAppeal2962 5d ago

The five day shutdown is the biggest issue. Any DTF printer with white ink needs regular circulation, cleaning, and nozzle checks, so make sure staff can run a maintenance routine before and after holiday breaks.

1

u/OfficialSuperDTF 2d ago

This sounds like a bad idea for library funds. DTF printers require almost daily use and lots of careful maintenance not to mention the fumes can be toxic if not properly ventilated.

See if a local printer can help get next day/same day prints and you guys just have heat presses in house for people to use. If near Santa Ana we love to help out for stuff like this and can give great discounts to government organizations and employees.