Welcome to this week’s roundup for DTF professionals.From entry-level heat press breakthroughs to workflow automation strategies and events that build real-world skills, this week’s stories show how DTF is leaning hard into efficiency, accessibility, and community. Let’s dive in. 👇
📢 This Week in The DTF Dispatch:
Fiery + Epson: A new high-volume DTF launch
Hanrun Paper goes premium with metallic UV label film
Transfer Express drops the MerchMaker™ press
STAHLS’ + Lane Seven host hands-on pro training
📰 Top Headlines This Week
1. Fiery to Power Epson’s First High-Volume DTF Printer
Summary:Fiery’s Digital Factory software will drive Epson’s first high-volume DTF printer, merging color fidelity with industrial-level throughput.
Key takeaways:
Epson enters the high-volume DTF market
Fiery enables advanced color workflows
Targeted at mass customization and speed
Why It Matters:Epson’s commitment to DTF signals further validation of the format’s long-term viability for both small batch and large production runs.
2. Hanrun Paper Adds Gold & Silver UV Label Films for DTF
Summary:Hanrun Paper has launched metallic UV label films compatible with DTF, unlocking premium 3D effects in high-end textile finishes.
Key takeaways:
Supports 3D gloss metallic applications
Ideal for luxury branding and fashion transfers
Marketed as versatile for both UV DTF and textile DTF
Why It Matters:This product bridges label and garment design workflows—offering decorators new texture, finish, and value without new hardware.
3. Transfer Express Launches MerchMaker™ Heat Press
Summary:Transfer Express drops a compact, clamshell + draw press aimed at small shops and mobile decorators—complete with smart display and bonus marketing kit.
Key takeaways:
Lightweight, dual-style heat press
Comes with a free $75 starter kit
Targets startups and tight spaces
Why It Matters:Entry-level DTF setups are getting smarter and faster. MerchMaker may be the new go-to for pop-ups, markets, or ecommerce side hustlers.
4. Heat Press Pro Day: Real-World Skills for DTF Decorators
Summary:STAHLS’ and Lane Seven are teaming up to offer a hands-on event for decorators on July 17 in California, focused on real-world heat press applications.
Key takeaways:
Interactive demos + expert training
Business tactics for pricing + growth
Limited to 100 participants
Why It Matters:Events like this put practical skills front and center—helping decorators bridge the knowledge gap from machine ownership to business growth.
🎯 This Week’s Strategic Takeaway
Startups and high-volume shops are converging on the same priorities: speed, efficiency, and flexibility. Whether you're launching your first heat press or upgrading to full workflow automation, investing in tools that support precision and portability will help you stay ahead.
❌ This Week’s Noise
Lots of noise around “AI-generated mockups” dominating DTF design workflows. While helpful, most tools still lack nuance in fabric realism and can't yet replace well-lit physical samples for clients.
📅 What’s Coming Up
Functional Fabric Fair New York – July 21–23, 2025 – Javits Center, NYCExplore the next generation of substrates for performance wear, outerwear, and technical apparel—ideal for advanced DTF decorators.
⚡ DTF Spark of the Week
“Smart tools don’t replace talent—but they do let you spend more time making things people want to wear.”
Thanks for tuning into this week's The DTF Dispatch!
We’ll be back next week with more trends, tools, and tactical moves shaping the future of DTF.
Keep printing smart. 👕