
From Blank Tees to Bold Designs: The Ultimate Guide to Epson Direct-to-Garment DTG Printers
If you've ever dreamed of turning your artwork into a wearable masterpiece or launching your own custom t-shirt business, you're in for a treat. The world of garment printing has evolved dramatically over the past few years, and at the heart of this transformation is Epson’s SureColor® F-Series. These Direct-to-Garment (DTG) and Direct-to-Film (DTFilm) printers are changing the game, making it easier than ever to bring vibrant, professional-quality prints to life on fabric.
Whether you're a seasoned print shop owner, a fashion startup, or a creative entrepreneur looking to expand your offerings, Epson’s lineup delivers cutting-edge tech, industry-leading reliability, and breathtaking print quality. From bold graphics on cotton tees to photorealistic details on hoodies and tote bags, these machines are built for versatility and performance.
But not all printers are created equal—and that’s where we come in. In this guide, we’re diving deep into the Epson F-Series lineup to help you navigate the options, understand what makes each model unique, and discover which printer fits your business goals best. We’ll also introduce you to Epson’s latest innovations like the SureColor F3070 Hybrid DTG/DTFilm Printer and the SureColor G6070 35" DTFilm Printer, which are opening up new creative possibilities for apparel decorators around the world.
Let’s explore how these Epson printers blend artistry, speed, and reliability into one powerful package—and why the SureColor F-Series might just be your next favorite business partner.
What is Direct-to-Garment (DTG) Printing?
Let’s break it down: Direct-to-Garment (DTG) printing is like having an inkjet printer for your t-shirts—seriously! Instead of printing on paper, you’re printing directly onto fabric, most often cotton. This technology allows you to create incredibly detailed, vibrant, full-color designs straight from your computer and onto the garment, all in just a few minutes.
Here’s how it works in simple terms: you load your garment (usually a t-shirt or sweatshirt) onto the printer’s platen, pre-treat it if necessary, and then let the printer do its magic. The ink is sprayed directly into the fibers of the fabric, bonding with it to produce a soft, long-lasting design. Unlike heat transfers or vinyl, DTG doesn’t sit on top of the shirt—it becomes part of it.
Now, you might be wondering how DTG compares to something like screen printing, which has been around for decades. Screen printing involves pushing ink through a mesh screen and requires a different screen for each color. It’s fantastic for large runs of simple, one- or two-color designs. But here’s the thing: screen printing can get really expensive and time-consuming when you need just a few shirts or a design with lots of colors.
That’s where DTG shines. It’s perfect for:
Short runs – Need just 10 shirts for a small event? No problem.
Personalized designs – Print a different name or graphic on every shirt.
Full-color artwork – Bring complex illustrations, gradients, and photographs to life without extra setup costs.
Because DTG doesn’t require screens or excessive prep, it gives businesses and creators a ton of flexibility. You can fulfill one-off orders, handle last-minute jobs, or offer fully custom merch—all while keeping production fast and efficient.
In short, DTG printing has opened the door for small businesses, artists, and entrepreneurs to get creative and go-to-market without the big upfront costs of traditional printing methods. It’s easy, colorful, and ready for whatever your imagination can come up with.
[ Learn More about the EPSON Direct-to-Garment DTG Printers ]
What Makes Epson DTG F-Series Printers Stand Out
In the fast-paced world of garment decoration, your equipment can either make or break your business. That’s why Epson didn’t just design a printer—they engineered a complete ecosystem that simplifies production, boosts quality, and helps you scale effortlessly. The SureColor F-Series isn’t about doing things the traditional way; it’s about doing them smarter, faster, and more brilliantly.
At the heart of these printers is Epson’s proprietary PrecisionCore® printhead technology, which delivers incredibly sharp details, smooth gradations, and vibrant colors with remarkable consistency. You’re not just printing a t-shirt—you’re producing a gallery-quality piece that just happens to be wearable.
One of the biggest advantages of the F-Series is its use of UltraChrome® DG and UltraChrome® Pro inks, which are specifically formulated to adhere to fabric beautifully and stand up to multiple washes without fading or cracking. That means your designs stay bold and eye-catching, even after your customers have worn them again and again.
Then there’s the workflow—which, if you've ever used traditional screen printing or heat transfers, is a total breath of fresh air. With Epson’s DTG and DTFilm solutions, you can go from digital artwork to printed garment in just minutes, with minimal setup and cleanup. This makes on-demand printing, short runs, and even one-offs incredibly cost-effective.
Let’s not forget about the integrated software. Epson’s Garment Creator or Edge Print software lets you preview and adjust your artwork with precision—fine-tuning white ink layers, color vibrancy, and print placement. Whether you're optimizing for a dark cotton tee or experimenting with film transfers, Epson gives you the controls you need to perfect every piece.
The best part? Epson printers are built like tanks. They're designed for high-volume use without sacrificing reliability. Features like auto platen height adjustment, clog detection, and built-in maintenance routines mean you spend less time troubleshooting and more time creating.
In short, what sets the F-Series apart is a perfect blend of tech, reliability, and artistry—a rare trifecta in the print world.
The SureColor F & G Series Lineup at a Glance
Epson’s SureColor F-Series includes a range of models tailored for different production needs—from small shops doing custom t-shirts to large-scale operations printing hundreds of garments or film transfers per day. Here's a closer look at what each model brings to the table:
SureColor F1070 Hybrid DTG/DTFilm Printer
The newest kid on the block, the F1070 is a compact, affordable solution for startups and boutique shops. It’s a hybrid printer that can handle direct-to-garment (DTG) printing as well as direct-to-film (DTFilm) workflows. That means you can easily switch between printing directly on cotton t-shirts or creating film transfers for polyester, blends, or difficult substrates.
Despite its small size, the F1070 is no slouch. It uses UltraChrome® DG2 ink with white ink capability, has an intuitive touchscreen interface, and includes an enclosed design with interior lighting for better dust control and print visibility. Think of it as the gateway to professional results without the hefty footprint.
SureColor F2270 Hybrid DTG/DTFilm Printer
This model is where performance steps up a notch. The F2270 offers faster print speeds, higher resolution, and enhanced automation features like auto platen height adjustment and a built-in maintenance station. It's also a hybrid unit, giving you the flexibility to produce both DTG and film transfer prints.
With its improved ink delivery system and wider color gamut, the F2270 is built for growing businesses who want to keep up with demand while delivering consistently high-quality prints. Plus, its new UltraChrome® DG2 ink provides better color vibrancy and wash durability than ever before.
SureColor F3070 Hybrid DTG/DTFilm Industrial Printer
The F3070 is an industrial beast designed for high-volume production environments. If you're pumping out hundreds of garments daily, this model is your new best friend. It features dual PrecisionCore printheads, a bulk ink system, and automatic garment height adjustment, which together create a powerful platform for non-stop production.
It also supports hybrid DTG/DTFilm workflows, so you’re not limited to just one application. This machine is all about efficiency, speed, and scalability—ideal for custom apparel companies, large fulfillment centers, or anyone serious about making money in the garment business.
SureColor G6070 35" DTFilm Printer
Looking to go full-send on DTFilm production? The SureColor G6070 is a dedicated 35-inch Direct-to-Film printer built for high-output film printing. Unlike the hybrid models, this one is designed purely for roll-based film applications, making it perfect for decorators who use transfers on polyester, nylon, or difficult fabrics.
With its 6-color UltraChrome ink set, automated media handling, and advanced drying and curing systems, the G6070 delivers high-opacity white, razor-sharp detail, and brilliant color vibrancy. It’s ideal for companies expanding into all-over prints, athletic wear, or promotional apparel.
Choosing the Right DTG Printer for Your Business
So, which Epson SureColor printer is the best fit for you? That really depends on where you are in your print journey—and where you want to go.
If you're just starting out, maybe running a small Etsy shop or launching your own apparel brand from a garage or spare bedroom, the SureColor F1070 is your ticket in. It's compact, affordable, and built with beginners in mind—but still delivers the professional results your customers expect. It's also a hybrid model, so you can experiment with DTG and DTFilm without needing two different machines. This gives you flexibility right out of the gate, which is huge when you’re still figuring out your niche or testing new products.
Now, let’s say you’ve got a few customers already and the orders are picking up. You’re ready to invest in faster speeds and better automation. Enter the SureColor F2270. This one’s a workhorse for growing shops. It prints quicker, handles more jobs with ease, and gives you tighter quality control thanks to features like automatic platen adjustment. You also get improved white ink circulation and waste reduction, which helps lower operating costs over time.
But maybe you’re not just growing—you’re scaling. We’re talking fulfillment centers, custom merch companies, or print-on-demand businesses working with big-name clients. If that’s you, the SureColor F3070 is your powerhouse. Built for industrial volume, this model is optimized for long production runs, with dual printheads, large ink tanks, and near-continuous printing. It's the printer you turn to when you need speed, volume, and rock-solid consistency—without the downtime.
And then there's the SureColor G6070, a bit of a different beast. This one’s all-in on DTFilm. It’s not designed for direct-to-garment, but instead focuses entirely on producing transfer films at 35 inches wide, ideal for everything from oversized shirt prints to team uniforms, polyester jackets, tote bags—you name it. If you're doing a ton of film transfers or want to move away from DTG for specific substrates, this is the printer that takes you there.
[ Learn More about the EPSON Direct-to-Garment DTG Printers ]
Epson DTG & DTFilm Printer Comparison Chart
Choosing the right Epson garment printer can feel overwhelming, especially with all the different features, sizes, and use cases. To make things easier, here’s a side-by-side comparison of the top models in Epson’s DTG and DTFilm lineup:
Feature |
SureColor F1070 |
SureColor F2270 |
SureColor F3070 |
SureColor G6070 |
Print Type |
Hybrid (DTG + DTFilm) |
Hybrid (DTG + DTFilm) |
DTG Only |
DTFilm Only |
Target User |
Beginners / Small Businesses |
Growing Shops / Small to Mid Businesses |
High-Volume / Enterprise |
DTFilm Specialists |
Print Speed (Light Garment) |
Moderate |
Faster |
Very Fast (Dual Printheads) |
High-speed Film Production |
Max Print Area |
10" x 12" approx. |
14" x 16" approx. |
16" x 20" |
35" wide roll-fed |
Ink Type |
UltraChrome DG2 Ink |
UltraChrome DG2 Ink |
UltraChrome DG Ink (bulk) |
DTFilm-specific Pigment Ink |
White Ink Support |
Yes |
Yes (Improved circulation) |
Yes (Large capacity tanks) |
Yes |
Automation Features |
Entry-level |
Auto Platen Height Adjustment, White Ink Management |
Auto Maintenance, Dual Printheads, High-capacity tanks |
Roll-to-Roll operation |
Ideal Use Case |
Startups, Custom Shirts, Etsy Sellers |
Boutiques, Growing Brands, Print Shops |
Large-scale Print-on-Demand Fulfillment |
Film Transfers, Sportswear, Oversized Graphics |
Footprint |
Compact |
Medium |
Large Industrial |
Medium/Large |
This chart is a quick snapshot of how each model fits into the bigger picture. Whether you’re creating bold fashion pieces, branded uniforms, or exploring film transfers for unusual materials, Epson has a solution tailored to your specific workflow.
Each model has been designed with precision, color fidelity, and user experience in mind—so the real question is: What kind of print business do you want to build?
Workflow, Software, and Ease of Use
Let’s face it—buying a powerful printer is only half the equation. The other half? Making sure it works with you, not against you. Thankfully, Epson's DTG and DTFilm printers aren’t just built for performance; they’re designed with a smooth workflow in mind. Whether you’re a seasoned print pro or just starting out, these printers are surprisingly intuitive.
Epson Garment Creator Software is at the heart of this ease-of-use philosophy. It’s bundled with each SureColor DTG/DTFilm printer and gives you complete control over your print settings. Need to adjust white ink density for a darker shirt? Want to fine-tune image placement? It’s all in there. The software lets you preview jobs before printing, saving both ink and garments from unnecessary waste.
For those using the F2270 or F3070, the experience gets even more streamlined. The touchscreen displays on these printers offer quick access to maintenance routines, ink level monitoring, and print job status—all in a clean, user-friendly interface. And let’s not forget remote monitoring capabilities for the F3070, which is a lifesaver for high-volume shops managing multiple machines or operating during extended hours.
The F1070, aimed at smaller setups or home-based businesses, is incredibly plug-and-play. With minimal setup time and straightforward operation, it’s perfect for entrepreneurs who want professional results without needing an IT department.
On the DTFilm side, the G6070 takes workflow to a new level with roll-fed film handling, optimized drying for film stability, and compatibility with industry-standard RIP software. That means faster film production, fewer alignment issues, and crisper transfers when it’s time to heat press.
From quick maintenance access to intelligent ink circulation and user-friendly print management, Epson has nailed the balance between power and simplicity. So whether you’re customizing ten shirts or ten thousand, you’ll spend less time troubleshooting and more time printing things people love to wear.
Cost of Ownership & Return on Investment (ROI)
One of the biggest questions when investing in a DTG or DTFilm printer is: Will it pay off? The answer with Epson’s SureColor F-Series lineup is a resounding yes—especially when you consider the balance between performance, ink efficiency, and long-term reliability.
Let’s start with the ink system, a major cost driver in any garment printing operation. Epson’s UltraChrome DG2 ink (used in the newer models like the F2270 and F3070) is designed not only for vibrant output but also for maximum efficiency. You’re getting more prints per liter of ink, which keeps your per-garment cost low—especially important when fulfilling large orders.
The F3070 Hybrid is built for serious production. With bulk ink tanks instead of cartridges and automatic maintenance features, it minimizes both material waste and operator time. For businesses running hundreds of shirts per day, these features can save thousands of dollars annually in labor and consumables.
On the smaller side, the F1070 offers a very accessible entry point. Its compact footprint, low power usage, and beginner-friendly operation mean that entrepreneurs and small businesses can start generating revenue without a massive upfront investment. It’s perfect for launching a brand from your garage or studio, and it scales beautifully as your business grows.
Now consider the SureColor G6070 DTFilm printer—this machine brings roll-fed film printing to the table, which drastically reduces the cost per transfer. Combined with Epson’s high-opacity white ink and tight film registration, your transfers will look consistent and pro-grade. And with Epson’s trusted reliability, you won’t be sidelined by frequent repairs or quality issues.
Here's a quick ROI comparison chart to put it into perspective:
Model |
Ideal Business Size |
Average Cost Per Print |
Ink System |
Estimated ROI Time |
F1070 |
Startups/Small Shops |
Low–Moderate |
Cartridge-Based |
6–12 months |
F2270 Hybrid |
Growing Shops |
Low |
Bulk Ink + Film |
6–9 months |
F3070 Hybrid |
High-Volume Production |
Very Low |
Bulk Ink System |
4–6 months |
G6070 (DTFilm Only) |
Medium–Large Shops |
Very Low |
Bulk Ink + Film |
6–9 months |
Your actual ROI depends on the number of garments or film transfers you produce weekly, but for most users, the numbers are highly favorable—especially with a solid pricing structure in place for your products.
Bottom line? Whether you’re customizing tees for a local band or pumping out prints for an online merch store, Epson’s SureColor F-Series can turn your investment into serious profits in record time.
Real-World Applications & Who These Printers Are For
What truly makes Epson’s SureColor F-Series printers shine is their real-world versatility. These machines aren’t just sitting in perfectly lit showrooms—they’re hard at work in print shops, fashion houses, e-commerce warehouses, art studios, and even home-based businesses, delivering custom apparel and film transfers that look amazing and last wash after wash.
Let’s break it down by user type:
Startups & Boutique Apparel Brands
If you’re just getting into the world of apparel printing—maybe you’ve got a Shopify store, sell on Etsy, or do local pop-ups—the SureColor F1070 is practically made for you. It's small enough to sit in a studio or office, but powerful enough to print professional-grade t-shirts, hoodies, and totes. You don’t need a full warehouse or huge team—just your creativity, some blank garments, and the F1070.
Custom Print Shops & Mid-Sized Businesses
For businesses with growing demand or those offering on-demand customization, the F2270 Hybrid is a powerhouse. You can handle DTG orders one day and switch to DTFilm transfer production the next—without changing machines. This kind of flexibility is a dream for shops that work with local schools, sports teams, businesses, and influencers. You’ll have the freedom to tackle more job types without sacrificing print quality or speed.
High-Volume Fulfillment Centers
If your operation prints hundreds or thousands of garments per week, like a large fulfillment center or national brand, the SureColor F3070 Hybrid was built for your workflow. It’s engineered for 24/7 operation, high throughput, and repeatable quality. With automated maintenance, dual printheads, and bulk ink tanks, this machine can run longer with less oversight—ideal for scaling fast.
Film Transfer Specialists
And if you're heavily invested in film transfer production—maybe you supply DTF prints to smaller shops or do bulk transfers for fashion lines—the SureColor G6070 35” DTFilm Printer is your secret weapon. It can output rolls of vibrant, durable film transfers with pinpoint accuracy. Think of it as your ticket to high-volume, high-margin print fulfillment without sacrificing consistency.
From streetwear drops and influencer merch to personalized gifts, uniforms, and e-sports jerseys, these Epson DTG and DTFilm printers can handle it all.
Whether you’re launching your dream brand or expanding your print empire, the SureColor F-Series lineup offers tools for every step of the journey—custom-tailored to your production volume, space, and creative goals.
[ Learn More about the EPSON Direct-to-Garment DTG Printers ]
Final Thoughts
With their exceptional print quality, reliability, and versatility, Epson’s SureColor F-Series printers stand out as some of the best choices for anyone serious about direct-to-garment (DTG) printing and film transfers. From the entry-level SureColor F1070, perfect for smaller businesses or passionate entrepreneurs, to the high-volume SureColor F3070 Hybrid, designed for large print shops, there is a model that fits almost every need. Whether you’re looking to print custom t-shirts, high-quality apparel for brands, or stunning transfers for fabric prints, these printers offer cutting-edge technology that allows for vibrant, long-lasting prints that your customers will love.
What makes these printers even more appealing is the combination of advanced features, like Epson's PrecisionCore printheads, UltraChrome DG inks, and the ease of use across the board. These features ensure every print is sharp, accurate, and durable, making the process of creating custom garments as enjoyable and rewarding as the results.
So, what's the takeaway?
-
Startups and small businesses will appreciate the SureColor F1070 for its flexibility and compact design.
-
Mid-sized shops or those with a growing demand will find SureColor F2270 Hybrid an excellent balance of functionality, speed, and versatility.
-
High-volume operations with an eye on speed and precision will absolutely thrive with the SureColor F3070 Hybrid.
-
For those looking to take advantage of DTFilm printing, the SureColor G6070 offers the ideal solution, ensuring vibrant, high-quality transfers with ease.
If you're in the business of custom apparel printing or film transfer services, the Epson SureColor F-Series is a worthy investment that promises outstanding results. The printers are built with the needs of growing businesses and creative entrepreneurs in mind, giving you everything you need to stay ahead of the competition. So, whether you’re just starting your journey into direct-to-garment printing or you’re ready to upgrade to a more high-volume, professional setup, Epson has you covered.
Ready to take your printing business to the next level?
Reach out to Image Pro International, your trusted source for Epson SureColor F-Series printers, and let us help you find the perfect match for your print shop’s needs. With top-tier customer service, expert advice, and competitive pricing, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Get in Touch with Us Today to discuss the right Epson printer for you and Elevate your Printing Game with the Epson Direct-to-Garment DTG Printers.
Unlock Exclusive Savings with Image Pro’s Rewards Program!
At Image Pro, we believe your Loyalty deserves to be Rewarded. That’s why we’ve created our Exclusive Rewards Program—a Simple, Powerful way to Save on the Products you Need Most. Earn Points with every purchase, Unlock tiered Benefits, and enjoy exclusive discounts on media, equipment, and supplies.
Whether you’re a small business or a large-scale operation, our program is designed to help you save more and grow further. Join today for Free and start earning rewards with every dollar you spend. Ready to take your savings to the next level? Sign Up Now and experience the Image Pro difference!
0 comments