By Melissa Donovan
Direct to garment (DTG) and direct to film (DTF) capabilities extend print shop’s offerings with a low-impact investment. The question is whether to spend money for both technologies or just one. Luckily, hybrid solutions truly offer the best of both worlds.
“With hybrid solutions, operators can print directly to cotton and primarily cotton-blend t-shirts and fabrics, as well as print and transfer applications to polyester, cotton/poly blends, and more using DTF, which presents significant expansion opportunities. Both DTG and DTF are ideal for personalized items, and with the addition of DTF, these personalized designs can be transferred to a variety of textile-based products including hats, shoes, tote bags, golf towels, and more,” shares Paul G. Morales, product manager, Professional Imaging, Epson America, Inc.
The May issue of Digital Output discusses hybrid and standalone solutions in more detail, specifically looking at how to find the best option for a print shop, namely based on productivity levels and application intentions. Here we share both hybrid and standalone options from leading vendors in the space.
Epson
Epson offers two hybrid DTG/DTF printers designed to meet specific needs of print shops based on size and output expected.
The SureColor F1070 Business Edition is a complete garment printing system designed for entrepreneurial creators ready to launch or grow their apparel business. The compact, studio-friendly design fits into small shops, garages, or maker spaces, and its transparent viewing panels enhance and display the professional printing process. It features a PrecisionCore Micro TFP printhead with Nozzle Verification Technology coupled with UltraChrome DG2 ink with CMYK+Wh, to reliably deliver vibrant colors and incredible detail. Easy-to-use features include automatic garment height adjustment, innovative touchscreen menu, and an automated maintenance system. With access to the Epson Cloud Solution PORT and robust Epson Garment Creator 2 software, print service providers can translate their creative concepts into tangible, high-quality garments and products.
Purpose-built for both DTG and DTF printing, the SureColor F2270 is designed to bring customized apparel to the market that holds true to the designer’s vision, with minimal waste and environmental impact. It features a new PrecisionCore MicroTFP printhead with Nozzle Verification Technology, and next-generation UltraChrome DG2 ink to deliver vibrant colors and incredible detail at impressive speeds—up to 20 percent faster when printing on dark garments. To support a new level of productivity and efficiency, it includes automatic garment thickness adjustment and robust Epson Garment Creator 2 software. Easy user maintenance features that help reduce downtime include a large 4.3-inch touchscreen interface, quick-load platen, and access to the Epson Cloud Solution PORT that provides live printer monitoring, including production rates and utilization data.
Mimaki USA, Inc.
The Mimaki UJV300DTF-75 printer is the company’s first purpose-built UV-DTF printer, designed to easily produce vibrant, durable transfers including curved or uneven surfaces using a dedicated film system. With stable media handling, next-generation UV inks, and user-friendly operation, it opens up new possibilities for customized goods production.
Polyprint
Polyprint has recently shifted its focus back to supporting small- and medium-sized businesses, offering flexible solutions in both DTG and DTF printing. Its latest release, the Filmjet Mini, is a complete DTF solution designed to make production simple and reliable. It comes as a full package, including embedded PC and RIP software, so customers have everything they need to start printing right away. One of its biggest advantages is that it includes a full warranty—even covering the printheads—giving complete protection of the customer investment. The machine is built with simplicity in mind, making it easy to use while minimizing the risk of user error, which is ideal for growing businesses that want professional results without complicated processes.
PrinterBiz, a DTG-C Company
PrinterBiz sells many brands and models. The easiest to use DTG/DTF hybrid printers are the X2 from DTG-C and the Epson F2270. Both models have technology built into the software to make the switch between technologies easy, and PrinterBiz provides free lifetime training for any machine sold, to ensure customer success.
Roland DG
Roland offers a high-production DTF unit, the TY-300, as well as a desktop DTF printer—the VersaSTUDIO BY-20. Both printers are reliable, easy to use, and deliver high-quality output. Intuitive, feature-filled RIP software is also included at no additional cost. Providers with both short run and large capacity needs will find that Roland offers a DTF device well suited for their specific production requirements.
Ricoh DTG
The Ricoh DTG line up, Ri 1000X/2000/4000, represents the pinnacle of dual-threat printing. These machines allow businesses to print more by combining the soft hand quality of DTG with the high-durability versatility of DTF. Built with Ricoh’s printheads and automated maintenance, these systems are production workhorses that help print providers stop outsourcing and start keeping 60 to 70 percent more profit per order, according to the company.
May2026, Digital Output
