Do You Need RIP Software to Print in DTF? How to Print a White Underbase for Direct-to-Film Printing

Question:
I’m interested in printing with DTF (Direct-to-Film) technology. Do I need to use any special software for this? Also, how do I print white ink underneath the image so it stands out on dark fabrics?

Answer:

Do You Need Special Software for DTF Printing?

Yes, you absolutely need specialized software—specifically RIP software (Raster Image Processor)—to print in DTF format.

Standard printer drivers (the ones you normally use for everyday printing) are not equipped to handle the unique needs of DTF printing. These include:

• Ink channel control: RIP software allows you to control which inks are used and in what order.

• Layered printing: This is crucial for printing white ink underneath the image. Without RIP software, you won’t be able to print this white underbase.

• Film alignment and mirroring: RIP software ensures proper image orientation and placement on the PET film for heat transfer.

Without this software, your printer simply won't know how to lay down white ink first, followed by color. The result? Washed-out colors that don’t adhere well to dark or colored fabrics.

Some popular RIP software choices include Acrorip, EKPrintStudio, and DigiRIP, all of which are commonly used for Epson-based DTF conversions like the XP-15000.

Why Is the White Underbase Important?

The white underbase acts much like a primer coat in painting—it provides a bright, neutral foundation so that your color layers can "pop" and maintain their vibrancy. On dark materials, if there is no white ink underneath, colors will blend into the background and appear dull or distorted.

In the DTF printing process, the RIP software will process the image to first print a mirrored color layer, followed immediately by a matching white layer. When heat-pressed onto the garment, the white ink ends up on the bottom, allowing the colors to sit on top and remain vivid.

For more information on converting the Epson XP-15000 to DTF, check out our full guide here:
The Ultimate Guide to Convert Your Epson XP-15000 to DTF and Sublimation
(https://bchtechnologies.com/blogs/blog/epson-xp15000-the-ultimate-guide-to-convert-your-printer-to-dtf-and-sublimation)

Addressing printer issues can be a complicated affair due to the hands-on nature of the problems. So, we're not able to provide remote troubleshooting, suggestions, or support for printer repairs. We offer an in-person evaluation and repair service via our local diagnostic facility (https://bchtechnologies.com/printer-repair-service). Given the high demand, we operate on a first-come, first-served basis. So, it might take a few weeks before we can get your printer to drop it off. Our services are structured to repair either a whole printer or specific parts, with clear instructions on how to proceed. However, we acknowledge that our rates aren't the most economical. Thus, we highly recommend that you resort to self-help via online research. You can start by checking out YouTube or visiting our YouTube channel's homepage (https://youtube.com/@bchtechnologies). Look for specific videos using the search icon next to "About" on the right-hand side of the menu bar. I receive dozens of queries every day asking about videos for specific topics. Having created videos over the past nine years, it's challenging to remember every single one. Therefore, using YouTube's search function would be most efficient. Plus, YouTube might suggest relevant videos from other channels that could assist you.

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