CONVERT MY EPSON ECOTANK ET-8550 INTO A DTF PRINTER | HOME T-SHIRT BUSINESS | DIRECT TO FILM

HOW TO CONVERT DTF PRINTER
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Channels and People I found helpful:
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Used in this tutorial:
Epson Eco-Tank 8550: I purchased from OfficeDepot.com (Do not pay more than $700)
Ink & Film & Powder: www.etsy.com/s...
Direct Factory Cadlink Rip Software: kingdomdtf.com...
PrintHead Cleaning Solution: amzn.to/34tBcvv
HEAT PRESS: Fancier Studio
PLATEN COVER: amzn.to/3o5uxhL
AFFILIATE LINKS:
**I have used all items listed above and below. I only recommend products that have been successful for me. I do receive a commission when you purchase from these links.**
GLOW FORGE REFERRAL LINK:
glowforge.us/r... - $500 off a Pro or $250 off a Plus
✅ CRICUT PRODUCTS
Cricut Access - shrsl.com/2vu1a
Cricut Joy - shrsl.com/2vu13
Cricut Explore Air 2 - shrsl.com/2vu1p
Cricut Maker - shrsl.com/2vu1o
Cricut Mug Press - shrsl.com/2vu1j
✅SUBLIMATION PRODUCTS
SAWGRASS SUBLIMATION PRINTERS: heattransfer.o...
HTW Blanks - heattransfer.o...
Butcher Paper - amzn.to/3dCmVwO
Heat Resistant Tape - amzn.to/3k9vqBM
Sublimation Paper: amzn.to/3bo4NYy
Oven Thermometer - amzn.to/39j1vD2
Heat Gun - amzn.to/3ntC470
Painter's Tape - amzn.to/3bZioG5
HEAT TRANSFER WAREHOUSE : ALL TYPES OF BLANKS, PAPERS & PRODUCTS
heattransfer.o...
HEAT PRESS NATION: shareasale.com...
✅EMBROIDERY PRODUCTS
Brother SE600: amzn.to/3woa2zz
Cutaway Stabilizer: amzn.to/3mixsBJ
Tear away Stabilizer: amzn.to/3rScOtl
Water Soluble Stabilizer: amzn.to/3unlNUR
Embroidery Thread: amzn.to/31P5JyV
Designs/Images/Fonts
Fonts & Designs:
Creative Fabrica - www.creativefa...
Design Bundles - designbundles....
EQUIPMENT & SERVICES USED TO PRODUCE THIS VIDEO:
Camera: amzn.to/2ZVxxEe
Lighting: amzn.to/31FyeCz
Music: Epidemic Sound
My contact info:
Email: [e-mail]
P.O. Box 450901
Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33345-0901
#directtofilm #tshirts #dtf

[@francobosch2604]

Thanks. I am also looking at doing the conversion. I'd just like to know why the rollers need to be removed? What will happen if you don't?

[@starsshinebrite]

The rollers will cause smearing of the ink. The print is wet when it comes out.

[@rudyjrcarranza8812]

@@starsshinebrite So how do you solve the roller problem when its wet?

[@brolicartrixing4111]

Wanted to ask if you did the conversion yet and how it came out?

[@GM-ri7mn]

What brand of sub ink u using?

[@fendibondie2545]

You lift the rollers for thick paper

[@jerrycampbell7427]

*It prints like no other **Bestt.Digital** printer. i have always loved Epson for the colors they produce.*

[@jeffwadley5180]

OMG!!! This video was just what the doctor ordered!!! Thank You!!!!

[@LucyLu70]

Patrice you always amaze me. I was so afraid you broke the printer. Can’t wait to see more designs. Thank you so much for this informative video❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@CraftableThings]

Hey Lucy!!! Thanks so much for watching! I haven’t been excited about a printer in a long time & this has me pretty amped up 💕

[@tiffanyr4460]

Wow this is amazing! I converted one of my epsons to sublimation and now I can convert to DTF?!! Thanks for sharing!!

[@CraftableThings]

Glad it was helpful!

[@qualitycraftingwithqua3222]

girrrrllll its the motivation for me.. as you continue to motivate us all to expand our craft to the next level. because of you I whipped out that sewing machine.. love it and keep them coming..

[@CraftableThings]

Qua...this comment is motivation for me. Thank you and YAY for pulling out that sewing machine.

[@modelteeznmore]

Thank you so much for this video. I just got my printer yesterday and now need to order my ink, film , and powder. I feel more confident after eating your video. Once again thank you

[@AWINningCombination]

Love this! I think this video solidified I’m not ready for DTF, but perhaps one day…the shirt looked amazing though. I always appreciate you learning for us and sharing about your experience 💓

[@CraftableThings]

Hey Brandi!!! Thanks for watching, girl! It's certainly a process.

[@Onlycanb1me]

Wow those were the only steps. I have seen other conversion videos that have made this process so complicated and intimidating. Thanks for the video I may have to invest in one.

[@CraftableThings]

Thanks so much for watching 💕

[@tamecawilson5607]

Omg so this all I gotta do is remove the rollers, your video was a breeze. I’m still thinking about everything because I was about to get into eco solvent as well. Thank you so much for the video 💖💖💖💖

[@CraftableThings]

Hey girl!!! It was pretty easy to set up.

[@tamecawilson5607]

@@CraftableThings Hey I think I need it those prints even the ones you messed up was pretty.

[@busymakingprettythings3895]

Hey Patrice, these are fabulous...Are you going to be selling the prints?

[@deezteez-n-thangz6504]

Hi Patrice, love the content and the passion you show when you do videos. Don't give up on dtf it's a learning process and remember maintenance is the key.

[@CraftableThings]

Hey!!! Thank you so much! So far, so good. 💕

[@mellrenee8381]

@@CraftableThingsso do we put the metal piece back in before printing or leave it out?

[@CraftableThings]

@@mellrenee8381 you leave it out. Taking it out prevents the wheels from smearing the ink on the film.

[@kimberlywilson6737]

Can you tell me what program you are using thank you

[@deezteez-n-thangz6504]

Hello Kimberly, we use Cadlink and Acrorip

[@garysnyder9740]

Just watched. Thumbs up. I converted my WF7720 to Dye Sub and now you've got me wanting to convert an EcoTank to DTF. I already have an encotank but it's only cmyk. Time for homework.

[@IvoryShesBlessedSmith]

This is a game changer for me . I usually use a third party for my DTF prints. Thank you

[@josealicea3765]

The issue with this will be the white ink. It has to be shaken daily to avoid it from separating and/or clogging the print head/nozzles. I've been doing DTF for well over a year with a L1800. It requires daily maintenance. Please keep us posted after a couple weeks. Good luck!

[@CraftableThings]

I plan to keep everyone updated. Eventually, within the next week or so, I'll be adding a circulation system or maybe a CISS. It's been a little over a week and so far, it's going pretty well. I've been performing maintenance...but, of course, paying more attention to the white. Thanks so much for watching!

[@queen_mauri5828]

How’s the white ink going?? Is it safe to purchase ??

[@CraftableThings]

@@queen_mauri5828 So far, after 3 weeks, it's still going good. The white ink has been holding up pretty well. I'm physically shaking the printer. Give it a little more time. I'll be keeping everyone updated.

[@MrBmcgee1989]

I was very concerned about that as well I have the 1430 and 2000 so I been Wondering about this since I have to shake my ink pretty often at least daily

[@M2woodworking]

So vacations are no go 😮

[@ketiafrancis303]

Patrice, you always provide value! Love your content and channel! Thank you for sharing!

[@CraftableThings]

Thanks so much, Ketia 💕

[@DIYAlex]

I'm new to DTF so I really appreciate all this info! Thanks Patrice! :)

[@CraftableThings]

Hey Alex!!! Thanks so much for watching 💕💕💕

[@iluvmesomehim92009]

Love your video you were real honest about the conversion.. I would of gave up trying to get those pieces out.. but you did it👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽 and kept it real😊

[@CraftableThings]

Thank you so much!!

[@MakingwithMarilyn]

Yes, I definitely want to see all of the journey!!! I have to admit, I was a wee bit nervous watching you pull those wheels out🤣 Can't wait to see more DTF videos.

[@CraftableThings]

Mar Bear!!! I really loving it and I don’t feel stressed out about it.

[@lilyssimplecreations6634]

I love how you always explain step by step. Watching your videos is a joy for me and yes DTF printing is really fun. I enjoyed it very much. Now I need to set up my Etsy shop to start making this investment pay off. ❤️❤️❤️

[@CraftableThings]

Marta!!! Girl, make that money!!!

[@hansirivera6283]

There were alot of steps missing 😢

[@janjanett]

This is the video of the year so far! Excellent content! Cant wait to learn more!

[@CraftableThings]

Thanks, Ja’Cara 💕

[@loudcitysociety]

This is the video I needed and searched so long for!!

[@CraftableThings]

Thanks for watching!

[@BlueSkies7]

As usual this was another awesome video. As much as I loved the shirts I don't think that I could follow all of those steps. But thanks so much for sharing the process and outcome with us. You're fantastic!

[@CraftableThings]

Thanks so much for watching! It’s really not too bad.

[@angelanash3109]

Patrice I have enjoyed this tutorial on converting your Epson printer. I will stay tuned for your future projects! - Successful Crafting 😍

[@CraftableThings]

Thanks for watching, Angel!

[@crystyle_atl]

i have this printer for sublimation and love it!! i saw someone else do dtf and he says he just shakes the right side of printer everyday

[@CraftableThings]

That’s what I’ve been doing. So far, so good. 🤞

[@user-qk1sw5fu1c]

I added the white ink in the first two slots the way you did. When I print out a film, the spots that should be black is printing out white. The parts that should be white is printing out clear.

[@yourteesyourway]

Hi Craftable Things Patrice, Thanks for sharing this, can wait to see your next video of all things possible when using it. I was looking to purchase a printer for DTF and you just made my life easier. This group is so awesome, can't wait to get my channel started, you all have really encourage me, Once again Thanks, You Rocks, see you on the next streaming video

[@CraftableThings]

Thanks so much! You can do it!!!

[@MrsKrysLynn]

This video cleared up a lot of confusion for me. I want to do this! So glad I found this channel!!

[@Beekaay675]

So did u start

[@MrsKrysLynn]

@@Beekaay675 I did. But now my printer doesn’t work.

[@Beekaay675]

@@MrsKrysLynn :(

[@curtisoneill9929]

Lol, I knew a few seconds in that I had a smile on my face when you told of my mistake..... watched anyway, good video.

[@CraftableThings]

thanks for watching 💕

[@jrichardson5822]

When you said daily maintenance at $650 for this printer. This is a hobby for now not a business. Thank you so much for information

[@CraftableThings]

Daily maintenance at $650?

[@stauniqueprintwear2705]

Very informative, you explained it very well. Thank you for sharing 😊 Continue to motivate us! We may get into DTF very soon, going with the Epson of course.Thank you Patrice❤️

[@annagodfrey4689]

Patrice this is AMAZING!!! I had seen another youtuber do this with a different epson model. But hers only had 4 colors and she had to cut the film after it prints with a cricut or silhouette. Your way is definitely the way I wanna go!!! I’m so excited to see more tutorials from you. Great job! Sublimation is not what I thought it was gonna be. It’s ok but I don’t like the fact that you can’t print white.

[@CraftableThings]

Thanks for watching, Anna! We’re they doing DTF or Eco-Solvent?

[@annagodfrey4689]

@@CraftableThings They were doing eco solvent. I was all for it until I realized you had to use a cutting machine to cut the film using their process. Your technique is definitely the way to go 😉

[@rong977]

Thank you for such a great video and being able to see the quality of the shirt so perfect 👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼

[@CraftableThings]

Glad you liked it!!

[@donnatexasred4527]

I am so glad that I found your tutorial. You are so easy to follow. I have this printer new in the box and have been contemplating sublimation or DTF. Thank you very much for your expertise.

[@CraftableThings]

It feels good to be found! Thanks so much for watching 💕

[@daveblue4303]

What did you decide to convert it to, sublimation or dft?

[@feliciaricks4793]

Hey love the video! Can I ask if you figured out a trick with shaking the white ink? Love the board trick!

[@karenriley8529]

Gurrrrrl, you did DAT❣ l knew you won't allow it to get the best of you. That's Just in your DNA. 🔥🔥 Pls, show where (exact location of those 4 blocks. Thhanks.

[@CraftableThings]

Thanks so much, Karen! I really do believe that we can do anything. I will!

[@randymartin3856]

This is a great home office printer. The print-from-phone feature saves so much time. It was super easy to set up.

[@daciakimble1210]

I needed to see this video to decide that I do want this next for my business! If you're willing to charge to help people set up via video conferencing, please let us know! I'd totally pay.

[@CraftableThings]

Hi Dacia!!! Will do 💕

[@joniking7979]

Just watched this video, yes it's a little old. Never knew this could be done for a fraction of the cost of dtf printers. My only question is do you have to have some type of software to make it print. I have always only used cricut and printable htv. So was just curious if you have to have anything extra to make the printer correctly print with all the different colors. I currently use an eco tank inkjet to print my htv printable vinyl. and only use my cricut design space for print and cut.

[@WAR10.Creates]

Hey Craftable. I see this is an old one but it just popped up and I had to watch!

[@CraftableThings]

Thank you so much for watching 💕

[@lisaakalolli6611]

I am on wait list for that printer now!!! so excited. I already have one dtf printer but I am really excited to get a WHITE printer..(matches my room)

[@CraftableThings]

Girl, I need to know how your journey is going. I must be a weakling with those rollers. 😂😂

[@lisaakalolli6611]

@@CraftableThings It is up and GOING!! made a few shirts now.. I just need to figure out something for the EXIT TRAY ..like you have...but I am LOVING so far.

[@Ricardocomedian]

Great video. You make DTF, look easy lol. Looking forward to the maintenance video. Also, please tell me you're curing your film in a very well ventilated area. Heard some of those chemicals in the glue could be harmful.

[@Just_BeBe]

Thank you 💜 very informative and inspiring!!! Just saved me from purchasing a $3,000 DTF printer 🙌🏾 I’ll try this instead. I just pray I can keep up with the white ink maintenance. Is there a way I could remove the white ink after each use???

[@longhairdontcare3606]

Good question!

[@christelransom2741]

This was an excellent video. Thank you so much. May God continue to bless you and your business 🙏

[@CraftableThings]

Thanks for watching, Christel 💕

[@CharmaineGalloway1]

Thanks for sharing I’m thinking about getting one real soon

[@CraftableThings]

Charmaine!!!! Hey girl! Yay! I love DTF!

[@yourteesyourway]

Hey Patrice, What program do i get to use with the DTF printer, do i need it and can you go over a video showing I use you the program to get started?

[@CraftableThings]

I’m using Digital Factory v10 Cadlink. You definitely need it in order to print. Most DTG and White Toner printers use similar softwares. You can also use AcroRip with this printer.

[@yourteesyourway]

@@CraftableThings Thx

[@logokidddesigns5782]

OUTSTANDING video. Thank you for sharing this. You rock, those prints are on point. Did you have to use any specific color profiles? Really love what you are doing. Stay well.

[@CraftableThings]

Thanks for watching and nope, no color profiles were needed. I’m way more impressed with the DTF printer than the Sublimation printers (except my Sawgrass).

[@LSEngraving]

Thank you. Converted my 8550 today with guidance from your vid!

[@Ramellosugahill]

You the second person I seen convert this great job

[@CraftableThings]

Thank you!

[@Liz123789]

Do we need specific software or can we print from anywhere?

[@CraftableThings]

You need a RIP Software because of the white ink. I use Digital Factory v10 Cadlink

[@khiwoodson7732]

Yes do not I bought mines for 700$ I’ve seen places even Amazon selling them for 1,200 Office Depot is the cheapest on this machine thank u for this video

[@CraftableThings]

Amazon is tripping with these printer prices.

[@thcrtn]

I'm liking how this works... As a visual artist it's nice to have this kind of option... The htv is cool but the cuts and details are not exactly where I would wanna go and I wanna do it myself.

[@teresawesley8792]

I keep looking at these DTF video. I'm really considering it😱

[@CraftableThings]

There are other printers. I’m loving it.

[@teresawesley8792]

@@CraftableThings I'm looking forward to your maintenance videos, but I know it's only been 5 days🤣

[@amstewart2003able]

Hi, how long did it take to print? Thanks

[@CraftableThings]

about 10 minute. This was a 13x19. I think I had it on high quality print. That slows it down...I think.

[@anaarevalo3401]

Hi..can I ask you where do you get your film ?? Thank you 😊 💓

[@preciouspeaces]

Patrice U Are The BUSINESS 🤩🤩🤩

[@CraftableThings]

Awwww!!! Thanks, Nicole!

[@LibertyGraphicDesigns]

that looks great I think I like them streaks lol thank you Patrice you answered all my questions about this printer

[@CraftableThings]

Thanks for watching, Juan!

[@albrassell1]

Is your 8550 printer still working?

[@CraftableThings]

I haven't used it since the end of October. I started using the L1800 and neglected it. I'm sure that it's clogged and I will attempt to unclog it soon.

[@jeng1360]

@@CraftableThings is the L1800 better?

[@Kingragnar_the_canecorso]

@@CraftableThings following

[@mauricioherrera7731]

@@jeng1360 no it’s super slow I have one

[@andreasanchez2272]

Anyone trying to sell 8550 I had to repurchase my heat press inventory still Ned sublimation paper and printer as I am on Chemo I depend on this as my income to support my kids.Ty

[@cassandrareed5959]

Ooohhhh Patrice your new printer is so fancy 😍🧡

[@CraftableThings]

Girl!!! Yesssss!!! Hahaha! Hey Cassandra 💕

[@rurusuniverse695]

Really been thinking about this…thank you for simplifying the process..

[@CraftableThings]

Thanks so much for watching 💕

[@adamtaufik5434]

hi i used L1800 epson for dtf printer.good job

[@CraftableThings]

thank you

[@kidablue]

I was looking at this printer thanks for sharing this with us ❤️👍🏾👌🏾

[@CraftableThings]

Hey Blue! Thanks for watching 💕

[@kraftfullyme]

I ordered my printer this morning! Yaaaay Now let's see how well I can follow direction -

[@CraftableThings]

😂😂😂 yay!!!

[@yacovfischzang7085]

Very good and thorough tutorial! Good job!... It helped a lot!...

[@CraftableThings]

Glad it helped!

[@HSSbyNairo]

Watching your older videos on a loop! 😬

[@CraftableThings]

Awww!!! Thanks so much, Nai 💕💕💕

[@WhosoeverGirl]

Looks like your aunt is going to calling you very soon … lol!!! Tell her we all love her!!!

[@CraftableThings]

Girl, I can’t with her!!!

[@myheartsoulcreations1624]

Girl...I was thinking about converting...thank you so much!

[@CraftableThings]

So far, I love it!

[@geecee6029]

Use a massager ‘s vibration to stir or shake ink

[@CraftableThings]

Great advice! Thanks so much 💕

[@leviteapparel]

Wow amazing hope the best for you.

[@CraftableThings]

Thanks, Levite.

[@ruthmoses9065]

This was a great video VERY INFORMATIVE. Great job, keep up the great work!!!!

[@CraftableThings]

Thanks so much, Ruth!!!

[@geminiburglar]

OK! imma do it! I am gonna convert tomorrow. Pray for me :)

[@Violaetor]

Those 2 lines look like the exact spacing from where you lifted it up twice to look. They are also smears, not drips.

[@flixchick9639]

Try applying a massage gun to the front of the ink wells. Set on low of course.

[@granniekpartyfavors]

Great video I can’t wait to get the real deal. I enjoy Dtf.

[@CraftableThings]

Me, too!!!

[@Genevagirl84]

Thanks for all the informative videos!! I converted my ET-8550 and I have the Cadlink software and I’m having issues with the DTF when it prints it is only printing the strip down the middle. Why is this happening? I’m so lost.😫

[@studentu05]

How did you take the old ink out of the printer and the tanks? How fid you clean it?

[@GM-ri7mn]

And can you show us how to use software to print it?

[@thecreativenetwork87]

You just need the right humidifiers in the areas to keep heads from drying

[@WhosoeverGirl]

I’m packing a bag … if you’re not going to do a conference, then I’m headed your way!! Great video!!! These girls are gonna wanna come too … lol

[@tiffanywilliams7700]

I’ll go!

[@CraftableThings]

😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂

[@MzLeKeisha]

Awesome Trice! I'm going to consider this really soon! As always, thanks for sharing!

[@CraftableThings]

Hey girl!!! I love DTF. Check into other printers. This one is working great for me...but it doesn't have good reviews.

[@MzLeKeisha]

@@CraftableThings Okay, thank you for the heads up!

[@TYJ419]

Very informative and great job explaining the process!

[@CraftableThings]

Thanks so much for watching Tracey 💕💕💕💕

[@wikicoin]

Thank you for this great video, I watched every second of it, if you have any video explaining in details how to take out the rollers please share it with us. Thanks

[@CraftableThings]

Thank you!! I will!

[@shykeateprice4840]

Good morning I want to do DTF but I have eco solvent ink in my printer so can I take ink out and do DTF

[@abriannadavis6461]

Patrice, fabulous explanation of the ink.. I do Dtg and the white cartridges have to be shaken daily, sometimes 2xs a day and changed after roughly 30 shirts.. Keep up the great videos 👏

[@CraftableThings]

Hey Abrianna!!! Thanks so much for watching. Girl, every time I walk past this printer I give it a little shake 😂

[@JustSaytheWordLLCGINAGIL]

Hey hey hey momma. Great video, Ms. 5B! ♡♡♡

[@CraftableThings]

Gina! Hey, my love! It all started with a shirt that you sent me. Thanks, boo!

[@JustSaytheWordLLCGINAGIL]

@@CraftableThings Get it girl! Gotta start somewhere. I'm happy to be a part of your journey. Love you boo!

[@radiant4682]

Thank you for great tutorial

[@denisefriesen2271]

Hello, thanks for the great video. It’s just missing an explanation for why the wheels need to be removed? Can you please explain the reason for that?

[@CraftableThings]

the second set of wheels causes streaks because the ink is still wet as it comes out of the printer.

[@patricksimmons7688]

I have the printer on a cart with wheels. I shake the cart to shake the white ink.

[@DoDreamOn]

Great Job!!!

[@CraftableThings]

thank you, sis!!!!

[@bigboiprints5726]

Outstanding job! You did amazing

[@CraftableThings]

Thanks so much for your help! 💕

[@michellemebane8286]

Ok I just ordered my Epson 8550 and ordered supplies from Big Boi immmmmmm soooooooo excited. Can you tell me where you take your images from ? Thank you so much and your videos are awesome and helpful! Michelle just sew sew

[@trinityinnovations]

Beautiful and thank you sis as I do plan to get one of these!

[@CraftableThings]

Love this printer, Anita!

[@keydyruiz728]

ooooh my God I love your channel, thank you so much..❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤

[@patriciaching100]

Awesome video. I am curious about the type of heat press as I have the large Cricut Press. So exciting..

[@CraftableThings]

Aloha & Mahalo !

[@jordanharris9390]

Excellent video

[@CraftableThings]

thank you!!!

[@erichgeorge3036]

Great info, thanks!

[@down2space]

Should have got some up close shots of the print and stretched it for us so we can see quality

[@dennissmallin8742]

I need a video on how to put the rollers back in the et-8550

[@jaydee7909]

❤😂 "stalking the film!"

[@davidcarreon472]

Can you do a video on how to install the ET 8550 to work with CADlink

[@CraftableThings]

yes

[@hillaryshortt2308]

Can you do an 8-month review - do you still like the 8550? Has it lost its magic? Pros/cons etc - thank you

[@jamie9874]

Out of interest do you still have your first ever DFT t-shirt ? You have come along way now :o love your channel!

[@creativespaceacademyplc]

epic this is amazing video keep up the amazing work and brining these things to the community Salute!!!