Home › DTF › Is a DTF Printer Worth It? (Print Your Own vs Buy Transfers)
Short answer: A DTF printer is worth it when you print every week: you control turnaround, pay only for film, ink and powder instead of retail transfer prices, and can sell gang sheets to other decorators. If you only press a few shirts a month, buying ready-made transfers is usually cheaper. The break-even is mostly about weekly volume and how much you value same-day turnaround.
| Own a DTF printer | Buy transfers |
|---|
| Up-front cost | Printer, shaker, press (see startup costs) | None |
| Cost per print | Materials only (cost per print) | Supplier price + shipping |
| Turnaround | Same day | 1–5 days shipping |
| Daily upkeep | Yes — maintenance every day | None |
| Extra income | Sell gang sheets to others | — |
Signs it is time to buy a printer
- You order transfers every week.
- Rush jobs are going to competitors.
- Customers ask for one-offs and names you can’t batch.
- You want to sell transfers to other shops.
Start right-sized
The 13" CobraFlex mini suits small shops; the 24" 4-head and Stealth suit production. Ask about our discounts, starter packages and financing.
FAQ
Can you print your own DTF transfers?
Yes — with a DTF printer, film, DTF ink, hot-melt powder, a curing method and a heat press.
How many shirts a week makes a DTF printer pay off?
It depends on your pricing and the payment; most shops that press every week find owning cheaper than buying transfers.
Is DTF printing hard to learn?
The workflow is simple; daily maintenance is the part to learn. We help with setup and training.
Can I finance a DTF printer?
Yes — choose financing when you build your quote.
Talk to the DTF team at Buckets of Ink — Tempe, AZ, since 1981. Ask about our discounts, starter packages and great financing — we'll help you get into your next machine.
Build a quote · Call
(480) 229-7806 · Showroom: 906 S Priest Dr, Suite 101, Tempe AZ 85281 (local pickup + free weekly Phoenix-metro delivery on supply orders).
Related guides: Best DTF printer for small business · What you need to start DTF · DTF gang sheets
