Procolored DTF Printer 2025: Tips and Recomendations

Start a Small Business T Shirt Printer with Procolored DTF Printer

Are you ready to discover the secret behind the success of thousands of entrepreneurs in the textile world? Today we are going to dive into the DTF printing technique, an incredibly powerful tool that transforms ordinary garments into designs that your customers will love and make you stand out from the competition.

You might be wondering, why is everyone talking about DTF? The answer is simple: because it is fast, versatile and affordable. Imagine having the ability to personalize t-shirts, caps, backpacks, umbrellas or even footwear, without needing to invest in expensive equipment. And the best part is that you can get started from the comfort of your home, using just a household iron and letting your creativity be the engine that drives your business.

What is DTF Meaning​ and how does it work?

DTF printing is a transfer printing method that combines simplicity, quality and incredible versatility. It all starts with a DTF printer (Procolored DTF Printer) that transfers your designs onto a transparent film using CMYK inks. Then, a layer of white ink is applied that acts as a base, giving the colors that covering power that makes them vibrate with intensity. But this is where the magic happens.

While the ink is still wet, a powdered adhesive is sprinkled on top that adheres exclusively to the printed areas. Then, with a touch of heat, the adhesive fuses with the ink and results in a transfer ready to be printed. The most exciting thing about this process is that you can store your transfers until the ideal time to use them.

When you’re ready, simply place it on the garment, apply heat and pressure, peel off the film… and that’s it! Your design will look spectacular, with a professional finish that will leave everyone impressed. That’s how simple and amazing DTF Printer is.

Procolored DTF Printer

This equipment not only makes the process easier, but also guarantees a uniform and high-quality print.
With DTF you have in your hands a tool that is not only revolutionizing textile customization, but also gives you the power to stand out in this world with creativity, agility and practicality.
These are the ideal option if you are looking for superior quality, efficiency and a lower cost per unit. However, the initial investment is around $3,000 USD.

What textiles can I print with Procolored DTF Printer?

DTF is an amazingly versatile technique that allows you to print on virtually any type of fabric that can withstand the time and temperature required for the fusing process.

On average, we’re talking about 160 degrees Celsius for 15 seconds, which opens up an almost unlimited range of possibilities. With Procolored DTF Printer, you can customize materials such as nylon, polyester, cotton, and blends of these fibers. But it doesn’t stop there; it’s also great for natural leather and faux leather, giving you the ability to create amazing designs on products such as backpacks, lycra leggings, wallets, belts, footwear, and many other accessories.

Remember, though, that not all materials are created equal. Printing on cotton, for example, is not the same as working with polyester or leather. Each of these materials may require specific adjustments in terms of application time and temperature to ensure the best results. With Procolored DTF Printer, the possibilities are endless, and your creativity will be the only limit.

How to distinguish a good quality DTF Printer?

As DTF printing continues to grow, more and more suppliers are emerging, offering different levels of quality and prices that can vary widely.

The challenge is that it is often not easy to tell the difference between a quality transfer and a poor one. However, there are several key aspects that can help you identify a good quality DTF Printer. First, look at the colors.

A good DTF transfer should have vibrant, well-defined colors, with no gaps between the printed colors and the white ink that acts as a base. If the colors appear dull or are not well aligned, you are probably not getting a professional result. Second, pay attention to possible stains or excess moisture.

Some transfers can “sweat” during storage, releasing an oily liquid that is often a result of poor manufacturing. Not only does this compromise the quality of your prints, but it can also cause visible stains. Always check that the transfer is clean and free of these imperfections. Another key point is the white ink. It must be strong and opaque.

If the white ink looks too transparent, the colors in your design won’t look vibrant, especially on dark or brightly colored garments. Lastly, evaluate the release when transferring. When heat is applied, the print should easily peel off the film without leaving any residue.

A good DTF transfer should last at least 50 washes before showing visible wear, and with the right materials and proper care, can last over 70 washes before showing signs of wear.

The adhesive is just as important. Although many adhesive powders look similar, their chemical composition varies. The most recommended adhesives are pure polyurethane, as they offer a soft feel, resist stretching without breaking, and even withstand accidental washing in a dryer.

How should I prepare images for DTF Printing?

Preparing your images correctly is essential to achieving a quality print. It all starts with making sure your image is at the highest resolution possible. While it may look acceptable on screen, a low-resolution image will show pixels in print, resulting in an unprofessional finish. Ideally, you should work with a resolution of 300 pixels per inch (PPI).

The next step is to remove the background accurately. Make sure your images have no background, but do it properly. Many people make the mistake of using the “magic wand” tool in Photoshop to quickly remove the background, which often leaves poorly defined edges that will be visible in the final print.

A good tip is to temporarily add a dark gray background layer while you work. This will help you identify any unwanted transparency, stray pixels, or blurred edges. For more precise background removal, consider using advanced tools like Photoshop’s pen, which will allow you to select elements more accurately.

If you’re looking for speed, you can also rely on tools with artificial intelligence. No matter which one you use, always check the details by placing that gray background layer and don’t forget to remove it before saving or exporting your file. Once you have the background removed, clean up the edges and contours.

What is the best heat press for DTF Printing?

DTF printing requires heat and pressure to properly adhere to the textile.
While you can start out using a home iron, if you’re looking for consistent, long-lasting results, investing in a dedicated heat press is the best option.

How to print a DTF transfer?

Printing a DTF transfer correctly is essential to guarantee not only the quality, but also the durability of the print.

The first step is to prepare your garment before transferring. Iron the fabric for about 10 seconds to remove wrinkles and any moisture residue. This will ensure that the surface is completely ready to receive the design and will reduce common mistakes. Once the garment is ready, it is essential to adjust the three key factors: pressure, time and temperature.

Pressure is critical for good adhesion. If your press doesn’t have a digital gauge, set the pressure manually using a piece of paper as a reference. Place it on the base, lower the iron, and adjust the knob until the paper is firm and can’t move. As for time and temperature, for 100% cotton or blends with up to 50% polyester, use 160° Celsius or 320° Fahrenheit for 15 seconds.

This setting is ideal for most cases, although I will explain later how to work with more delicate fabrics such as polyester. Something important to keep in mind are the types of DTF films (Procolored DTF Printer), as there are two main ones: cold release and hot release. Cold release film requires you to completely cool the design before removing the film, making it ideal for heat-sensitive fabrics and offering a matte finish.

Make sure it is completely cool, otherwise you may damage the print. On the other hand, hot peel allows you to remove the film immediately after ironing, which speeds up your work and usually leaves a semi-glossy finish with slightly more vibrant colors.

Always check with your supplier (Procolored DTF Printer) for this information to properly handle the type of film you are using. And here’s a ninja tip that will transform your prints: one of the big secrets to making DTF prints feel much softer and lighter to the touch is to give them a second ironing for about 5 seconds. This small step is key because it allows the print to integrate much better with the fabric, improving not only its appearance, but also the comfort when using it.

You can use a Teflon sheet to achieve a slightly shiny finish or a regular sheet of paper if you prefer a matte finish. Although it may seem optional, this final touch is highly recommended. This is the master detail that will take your DTF printer to the next level in quality and professionalism! On the other hand, if you notice that the transfer is not adhering properly, try gradually increasing the temperature and pressure of the press.

Keep in mind that each supplier may have supplies with different requirements, so it is always helpful to follow their instructions. Some people try to reduce ironing time by increasing the temperature to 180° Celsius, with the intention of applying the DTF Printer (Procolored DTF Printer) in one quick five-second application. However, this is not something I recommend you do.

High temperatures, besides being aggressive, can leave visible marks on clothing and even burn it, especially when working with synthetic textiles. It is always better to prioritize the quality of the print and the safety of the garments by following the appropriate parameters, rather than risk damaging the final product.

How to remove DTF printing if I made a mistake?

If you have made a mistake when printing a design with Procolored DTF Printer, don’t worry, there is always a solution. With the right methods, you can correct the error and save the garment without further complications.

Here are three effective ways to achieve this, from the simplest to a powerful combination of techniques. The first method is using heat. This is ideal for natural fabrics such as cotton, but avoid applying it to synthetic fabrics, as they could deform or burn. Start by applying moderate heat to the back of the print for a few seconds.

While the adhesive is still hot, use a spatula and tweezers to carefully peel off the DTF(Procolored DTF Printer) . If necessary, repeat the process little by little until all residue is removed. Be careful not to overuse the heat, though, as this could damage the fabric. If you’re looking for a more precise method, you can use an adhesive remover like VLR, one of the most effective products for this purpose.

This solvent is designed to dissolve adhesive without damaging the garment. Apply a small amount to the back of the print you wish to remove, wait a few seconds, then use a spatula or tweezers to remove the design. Wipe away any residue with a dry cloth and allow the garment to dry completely before re-wearing.

If you do not have access to VLR, you could alternatively use paint thinner, known in some regions as a “thinner” or acetone, which is easily available. However, this method is less recommended as it can be more aggressive, less efficient and damage certain fabrics. The third method combines the best of the above: the use of paint thinner together with heat.

Apply a little solvent behind the print to soften the adhesive, then use moderate heat to make it easier to remove. Use a spatula and a dry cloth to clean off any residue and leave the garment ready to be reused. It is important to test a small area of ​​the garment before applying any of these methods to ensure that it will not be damaged.

Adhesive remover like VLR is a very useful tool that will allow you to carry out this process efficiently and safely. Don’t forget to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and take all necessary precautions to take care of both your clothes and your well-being. With these solutions, no mistake will be the end of your projects!

Common problems, possible causes and solutions about Procolored DTF Printer

In the world of DTF printing, it is natural that some issues may arise. However, with the right tools and knowledge, you can solve them and ensure flawless results on every garment.

Here I explain five common problems, their causes and how to solve them effectively. A recurring problem is when the white base of the design is out of sync. This is usually due to a poor adjustment on the plotter or Procolored DTF Printer that generates out-of-registration prints.

It’s crucial that your supplier properly adjusts the equipment so that each design comes out perfectly aligned and sharp. Another common challenge is color issues, such as banding, which appears as lines with missing ink or less saturated areas that are not part of the design. This affects the uniformity of the print and its visual appeal.

A good print should always look vibrant, with consistent colors and no fading. Make sure you work with a supplier who takes care of these details. If the print feels heavy, stiff, or lacks elasticity when you touch it, a low-quality or inappropriate adhesive was probably used during the transfer’s production.

The solution is to choose DTF transfers (Procolored DTF Printer) with pure polyurethane adhesive, which guarantee a light, soft finish with excellent elongation capacity, ideal for comfortable and durable garments. When the print cracks, peels off or wears off quickly with washing, there are two common causes. The first is not having applied the time and temperature correctly during the transfer process, which happens especially when using a home iron.

The second is the use of low-quality inks and adhesives. To avoid this problem, choose high-quality materials and follow the transfer instructions. Remember that a good DTF transfer (Procolored DTF Printer) must withstand at least 50 wash cycles before showing signs of visible wear. Finally, if when transferring you notice that residue remains on the DTF film (Procolored DTF Printer) or the print shows defects and stains, this indicates that the film used is not of good quality.