DTF printing technology has revolutionized the custom printing industry. Its ability to create vibrant, full-colored, and durable designs on a wide variety of materials makes it the first choice for many, from hobbyists to small-scale print businesses. 

However, knowing the associated cost of DTF printing is necessary for anyone who is willing to get hands-on with this method. There are different types of costs associated with each type of DTF transfer setup. A different route of consideration has to be made, whether purchasing pre-printed transfers, investing in an in-house setup, or opting for full-service production of custom printed materials.

At the end of this guide, we believe that you will get a total breakdown of DTF printing costs in detail, which would help you determine the best approach according to your personal needs.

Individual Pre-Printed DTF Transfers

If you need only a small number of transfers for personal use or maybe a small-scale business, opting for pre-printed transfers can be a reliable option. These transfers can be easily found in the market and are priced based on the size of the sheet of each design and the complexity of the pattern to be printed. 

• Small desimarket x”3: These designs can cost from $2 to $4 per transfer, based on the total order value or the vendor you opt for.

• Medium designs (8”x10”): The most popular size for small pieces of apparel costs around $5 - $8 per transfer.

• Large designs (12”x12” or more): The most common size for t-shirts and shirts, which generally costs around $7 - $10 per transfer

• Bulk orders (50+ pieces): Transfers for events such as campaigns or other events can help you print a bulk quantity of the same design, which then drops the cost down to $1 - $5 per transfer

Gang Sheet of DTF Transfers

Gang sheets allow you to fit multiple designs onto a single sheet, reducing the cost per transfer. These designs can then be individually placed on every other piece of material to get the design transferred.

• 24"x24" gang sheet: $20 - $40

• 48"x48" gang sheet: $50 - $80

Printing the DTF Transfers Yourself

Owning your own DTF printer allows you to create unlimited designs, with costs primarily depending on supplies and maintenance.

• Cost per small print (~3”x3”): $0.50 - $1

• Cost per medium print (~8”x10”): $1 - $2

• Cost per large print (~12”x12”+): $2 - $3

Ordering Full Production Printing Services

For bulk orders, full-service DTF providers handle printing and pressing onto garments.

• Bulk orders (50+ pieces): $5 - $10 per unit

• Small batch orders (10-50 pieces): $8 - $15 per unit

• Custom designs with premium materials: $12 - $20 per unit

Although these prices can vary slightly according to the quality of the print you get, they may vary depending on the print quality, ink used, and healing time.

Cost of Pre-Printed DTF Transfers

Cost Breakdown

Purchasing pre-printed transfers is ideal for small businesses or those testing designs before investing in their equipment.

• Material costs: $1 - $3 per transfer

• Ink costs: $0.50 - $2 per transfer

• Labor & markup: $1 - $5 per transfer

Pros of Pre-Printed Transfers

• There is no upfront investment in equipment.

• It is quick and easy to apply.

• The product is high-quality and professionally printed.

Cons of Pre-Printed Transfers

• Higher per-unit cost

• Limited customization options

• Dependency on supplier turnaround times

Costs of Full-Service DTF Production

Full-service DTF production includes the entire printing and application process.

Cost Breakdown

• Printing costs: $2 - $6 per unit

• Labor & overhead: $3 - $7 per unit

• Markup & profit margins: 20% - 50%

Pros of Full-Service Production

• High-quality, professional prints

• Saves time and labor

• No need to purchase or maintain equipment

Cons of Full-Service Production

• Higher cost per print for small batches

• Limited flexibility for rush orders

• Shipping and turnaround time considerations

Cost of Setting Up an In-House DTF Printing Operation

Initial Investment

Setting up an in-house DTF printing operation requires purchasing essential equipment and supplies.

• DTF Printer: $3,000 - $15,000

• DTF Film & Powder: $100 - $500 per batch

• DTF Ink: $200 - $500 per liter

• Heat Press: $300 - $2,000

• Software & Maintenance: $500 - $2,000

Cost Breakdown Scenarios

1. Small-Scale Setup (~$5,000): Basic printer, small heat press, and minimal supplies.

2. Mid-Range Setup (~$10,000): Professional printer, high-quality heat press, and bulk supplies.

3. High-End Setup (~$20,000+): Industrial-grade printer, large heat press, and premium materials.

Example Cost Per Print

Once operational, an in-house setup dramatically reduces per-print costs.

• Small print (~3”x3”): $0.50 - $1

• Medium print (~8”x10”): $1 - $2

• Large print (~12”x12”+): $2 - $3

Pros and Cons of Setting Up an In-House DTF Printing Operation

Pros

• Lower cost per print over time

• Full control over design and quality

• Ability to fulfill orders immediately

Cons

• High upfront investment

• Requires maintenance and technical expertise

• Space and operational costs

Cost Comparison and Decision-Making

Pressing Your Own DTF Transfers vs. Outsourcing to Full-Service Production

Establishing an In-House DTF Printing Operation

For businesses with high-volume printing needs, an in-house operation may be a cost-effective choice over time. However, the initial investment and operational learning curve must be considered. If you have a constant flow of needs to get these DTF prints, you can boost your margin by around 20–50% compared to pre-printed DTF transfers.

Choosing the Right DTF Printing Approach for Your Business

The best approach depends on your business size, budget, and printing volume:

• Hobbyists & Small Businesses: Pre-printed transfers or gang sheets

• Medium-Sized Brands: Combination of pre-printed transfers and a small in-house setup

• Large-Scale Production: Full in-house DTF printing or outsourcing bulk orders

Remember that cost might be an important aspect, but it's not the only one. Thus, we suggest having a detailed study of your needs before getting started with any of the methods, especially if you are a fresher willing to enter the custom printing industry.

Conclusion

There are DTF and many more technologies for custom printing these days, and cost is one of the most crucial factors in determining which of those you would opt for, especially if you are considering it from a business perspective. Get into the industry only after getting the in-depth knowledge of each component related to the cost of the transfer. 

Visit us at We Must to find out more about the other related technologies and print techniques. Ready, get set, Print!

Frequently asked questions 

1. What is the cheapest way to start DTF printing?

The most cost-effective way to start is by purchasing pre-printed transfers or using gang sheets until you scale up.

2. How long does a DTF print last?

With proper care, DTF prints can last 50+ washes, making them durable and long-lasting.

3. Can I use a regular printer for DTF printing?

No, DTF printing requires specialized printers that can handle DTF inks and films.

4. What is the best DTF printer for small businesses?

Entry-level options like the Epson L1800 or modified DTF printers are excellent for small businesses looking to get started.

5. Is DTF better than screen printing?

DTF is more versatile for small-batch, multi-color prints, while screen printing is more cost-effective for high-volume orders.