Do You Need Special Software for DTF Printing? Understanding RIP and White Underbase Layering

Customer Question 

Is special software necessary to print in Direct-to-Film (DTF) format? How do you print a white layer under the image for DTF?

Answer

To directly answer your question: Yes, you absolutely need special software to print in DTF format, and that software is called RIP (Raster Image Processor) software.

Why RIP Software is Necessary for DTF

Standard printer drivers—like the default ones that come with consumer or office printers—are not equipped to handle the complex color layering requirements of DTF printing. In DTF, you typically print two key layers:

1. The Color Layer (CMYK) – the actual image.

2. The White Underbase Layer – laid down behind the image to make colors pop, especially on dark garments or surfaces.

RIP software manages these layers by taking direct control of the printer's ink channels. It tells the printer when and where to lay down white ink, which is not supported by standard drivers.

This white ink layer is essential for:

• Vibrant colors on dark textiles

• Preventing color blending with fabric hues

• Creating opacity and image fidelity across different garment types

Without RIP, the printer has no way of knowing where to print white or how to position it beneath the color layer. So even if your printer has a white ink channel installed, it won’t function correctly unless controlled by a RIP program.

Popular RIP Software Options for DTF

Some commonly used RIP software for DTF printing includes:

• Acrorip (formerly EKPrint)

• CADlink Digital Factory

• WhiteRIP

• PrintFab

Each software has its own learning curve and compatibility considerations, so it’s important to select one that supports your specific printer model (like the Epson XP-15000, which many users convert for DTF).

If you’re interested in a detailed walkthrough of printer conversion for DTF, we have a full guide available here:
Ultimate Guide to Convert Epson XP-15000 for 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.

Thanks again for reaching out, and we appreciate your continued support of BCH Technologies.