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DTF Printing for Beginners: How to Start a Print Business in Canada
- Papipapi Papiarea
- Jun 30
- 2 min read
Updated: Jun 30
DTF printing is one of the most accessible ways to start a custom apparel or merchandise business in Canada today. Low startup costs, no minimums, and the ability to print on virtually any fabric make it a compelling option for entrepreneurs, side hustlers, and established print shops looking to expand.
What is DTF Printing?
DTF stands for Direct to Film. Your design is printed onto a special PET film, coated with hot-melt adhesive powder, cured with heat, then transferred to your substrate using a heat press. The result is a full-color, photographic-quality print on virtually any fabric – with no pretreatment, no weeding, and no minimum order size.
What Equipment Do You Need?
DTF Printer – The Super Mini DTF Printer is the most popular starter option. Compact, affordable, and capable of producing professional-quality prints on a 13" wide film.
Curing Oven or Shaker – Cures the hot melt powder after printing. A shaker machine automates the powder application and curing in one unit.
Heat Press – To transfer your print from the film to your garment. A quality heat press with even temperature distribution is essential.
Fume Extractor – Recommended for safe workspace ventilation during curing.
What Consumables Do You Need?
DTF Ink – White ink (for underbase) and CMYK inks for color. We recommend Supreme HD inks for their nozzle-care formula.
DTF Film – Quick peel rolls matched to your printer width.
DTF Powder – Hot melt adhesive powder, medium grade for most applications.
Moisturizer – Prevents the printhead from drying out during idle periods.
How Much Does It Cost to Start?
A complete starter bundle including printer, shaker/curing oven, fume extractor, and initial consumables typically runs between $3,000–$6,000 CAD. The Super Mini Starter Bundle at DTF Toronto is designed specifically for beginners and includes everything you need to get your first print out the door.
How Do You Find Customers?
Local businesses needing branded apparel – restaurants, gyms, trades companies.
Schools and sports teams needing custom uniforms or spirit wear.
Events, festivals, and corporate gifting.
Selling online via Etsy, Shopify, or your own website.
Instagram and Facebook – showing your prints builds a local following fast.
Why Buy Your Supplies from DTF Toronto?
Based in Vaughan, Ontario, DTF Toronto is Canada's leading DTF supply store. We stock everything you need to start and grow your DTF business – printers, inks, film, powder, parts, and accessories – all shipped free across Canada and the USA. We also offer training and technical support to help you get the most out of your equipment.
Call us at 647-822-4657 or shop online at dtfsuppliescanada.com to get started.
Get Your DTF Supplies at DTF Toronto
DTF Toronto has everything a Canadian print business needs to get started: DTF PET film, hot melt adhesive powder, DTF inks, the Supreme HD DTF printer, and heat press machines. Fast shipping across Canada for everything you need to launch your print shop.
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