How to Convert an Epson ET-2803 Into a White-Ink A4 DTF Printer

Direct-to-film printing has become popular because it allows users to create full-color transfers for cotton, polyester, blends, and many other fabrics. However, entry-level DTF equipment can still be expensive, especially when the printer needs to produce a white underbase for dark garments.

One alternative is converting a compatible Epson EcoTank printer, such as the Epson ET-2803, ET-2800-series, or a closely related model, for DTF use. With the proper ink configuration, film handling modifications, waste-ink setup, software, and workflow, a small EcoTank printer can become a compact A4 DTF system capable of printing both color and white ink.

In this article, BCH Technologies explains the major steps involved in converting an Epson ET-2803 into a white-ink DTF printer, why each modification is necessary, and what new users should understand before beginning.

We also have a video below that shows how the conversion is done from start to finish, which can be especially useful when identifying screws, tubing locations, and printer components.

Understanding What Makes a "True" DTF Printer

Not every printer advertised for transfer printing operates as a complete DTF system.

A traditional color inkjet printer can print an image onto transfer media, but without white ink, that image normally works best on white or very light-colored fabric. Dark garments present a problem because standard cyan, magenta, yellow, and black inks are not opaque enough to block the fabric color underneath.

A full DTF workflow solves that problem by printing a layer of white ink behind the color image.

The typical ink structure looks like this:

• Color image layer

• White ink underbase

• Adhesive powder

• Fabric

The white layer provides opacity and creates a bright foundation for the color inks. Therefore, a converted Epson printer that can properly print white ink can produce transfers for black, navy, red, and other dark garments in addition to light-colored shirts.

This white-ink capability is what separates a complete DTF conversion from a basic transfer-printing setup.

Choosing an Epson EcoTank Printer for the Conversion

Several Epson EcoTank models use a similar print engine and can be attractive platforms for small-format DTF conversion. The ET-2800 series is particularly appealing because these printers are widely available and relatively compact.

Depending on availability, models may include printers such as:

• Epson ET-2800

• Epson ET-2803

• Other closely related EcoTank models

Before purchasing a printer, verify that the exact model is supported by the RIP software and conversion kit you plan to use. Epson occasionally changes internal components between models that appear almost identical from the outside.

Refurbished printers can also reduce the initial investment. However, prices change frequently, so do not base the project on a specific advertised price. Instead, compare current new and refurbished pricing from reputable sources.

Another potential cost-saving strategy involves the original Epson ink supplied with a new EcoTank printer. Because DTF conversion requires specialized DTF ink, the original factory ink may not be needed for the conversion. Some users choose to retain it for another compatible printer or resell unopened bottles where permitted.

The important point is simple: do not fill the printer with regular Epson ink if you intend to immediately convert it to DTF. Cleaning factory ink from a newly filled printer makes the conversion considerably more complicated.

Installing an External Waste Ink Bottle

DTF printers require frequent maintenance, especially when white ink is involved. Cleaning cycles, printhead flushing, and ink charging send waste ink through the printer's internal waste system.

For this reason, many converted printers use an external waste ink bottle.

On the ET-2803, access to the waste line may require removing a rear cover or panel. After locating the waste tube, you can route it outside the printer and connect it to an external container.

A conversion kit may include:

• Waste ink tubing

• Tube connector

• Waste bottle

• Syringe or priming accessories

• Bottle support or hook-and-loop fastener

The external bottle should always sit securely on a stable surface.

A hook-and-loop strip can help prevent accidental movement, but it should not support the weight of a full waste bottle hanging in the air. Waste ink can leak very easily, and DTF ink is difficult to remove from furniture, carpet, and clothing.

Additionally, never seal the waste bottle completely airtight. The system must allow displaced air to escape as liquid enters the container.

Check the waste level regularly. White DTF ink contains pigment that can settle heavily and create thick residue inside tubing and containers.

Filling the Tanks With the Correct DTF Ink Sequence

One of the most important parts of an Epson DTF conversion is establishing the correct ink-channel sequence.

A standard EcoTank printer is designed for CMYK ink:

• Cyan

• Magenta

• Yellow

• Black

For DTF printing, one channel must be reassigned to white ink.

In the configuration demonstrated for this ET-2803 conversion, white ink replaces the normal yellow position while yellow moves to the original black position.

Therefore, the arrangement becomes:

• Yellow

• White

• Magenta

• Cyan

The exact sequence must match the RIP software configuration.

This is extremely important. The physical location of the ink in the printer and the channel configuration inside the RIP must agree. Otherwise, the printer may output the wrong colors or send colored ink where the software expects white.

When filling the tanks, DTF ink may not immediately flow through an EcoTank bottle valve or modified filling container. If ink does not begin flowing, slightly reposition the bottle rather than forcing it.

Make sure each tank receives the correct ink before starting the initial ink charge. Once the printer pulls ink through the dampers and printhead, correcting a channel mistake becomes much more difficult.

White ink also requires special attention because titanium dioxide pigment settles significantly faster than normal dye or pigment color ink. Shake white DTF ink thoroughly before filling and maintain a regular agitation routine afterward.

Removing the Star Wheels for DTF Film

A normal Epson printer is designed to move ordinary paper through the print path. Small star-shaped rollers near the output area help control the sheet after printing.

These rollers are useful for paper but problematic for DTF film.

DTF ink remains wet when the film exits the printer. If the star wheels contact that wet surface, they can leave:

• Roller marks

• Ink tracks

• Small dots

• Scratches

• Repeating impressions

Therefore, DTF conversions commonly remove the star wheel assembly.

On the ET-2803 platform, the star wheel assembly may be integrated with part of the tubing guide or rail. Consequently, removing it may also require installing a replacement tube rail.

This is why some A4 conversion kits include an additional tube rail while others do not.

Before ordering a conversion kit, determine whether your printer requires the replacement rail.

During disassembly, the scanner section may need to be raised. Be careful with the scanner ribbon cables and wiring. Never allow the scanner assembly to pull against those cables.

After removing the original star wheel assembly, install the replacement rail and secure the ink tubing in its intended groove. The tubing must move freely with the carriage without sagging into the paper path or stretching at either end.

Proper tube routing is one of the most important reliability factors in a converted printer.

Why Removing the Star Wheels Changes Film Feeding

Removing the star wheels solves one problem but creates another.

Near the end of a sheet, the printer normally relies on the output rollers and star wheels to maintain control of the media. Once those rollers are removed, the printer may have difficulty advancing or accurately printing the final portion of a short sheet.

As a result, a standard A4 DTF sheet may need a temporary extension attached to its trailing edge.

One simple method involves taping a clean piece of film to the non-printing end of the sheet. This gives the printer additional material to grip while the image finishes printing.

Another approach is cutting sheets slightly longer than the finished print area.

If you purchase DTF film in a roll, this becomes particularly convenient. Instead of attaching an extension to every sheet, simply cut the film several inches longer than the required artwork.

When preparing film, remember that the printable coated side must face the printhead. Many films have a slightly different surface texture on each side, so confirm the manufacturer's recommendation before printing.

Performing the Initial Ink Charge

After filling the printer with DTF ink, the printer must complete its initial ink charging procedure.

This process pulls ink from the EcoTank reservoirs through the supply tubes and into the printhead.

Follow the printer's screen prompts carefully. On a new printer, Epson may ask you to confirm that the tanks are filled and then start the initialization process.

Do not interrupt power during an ink charge.

An incomplete charge can introduce large air pockets into the ink system. This can lead to missing nozzles, inconsistent ink flow, or difficulty establishing white ink output.

After initialization finishes, perform a nozzle check before sending an actual DTF print.

A good nozzle check should show consistent output from every active channel. If significant portions are missing, do not immediately run many cleaning cycles. Excessive cleanings consume large amounts of ink and fill the waste system quickly.

Instead, verify ink flow, tank levels, tubing condition, and whether air is trapped in the lines.

Installing the Correct Epson Windows Driver

The printer driver plays an important role in a DTF conversion.

For the workflow described here, the system uses Windows. Before connecting the printer, it is often safer to install the proper Epson driver first and connect the USB cable only when the Epson installer requests it.

This can help prevent Windows from automatically installing a simplified generic driver.

A generic Windows printer driver may appear functional, but when you open Printing Preferences, you may see only a few basic settings.

The genuine Epson driver normally provides a much more complete control panel.

If Windows has automatically configured the printer with a generic or protected printing configuration, you may need to:

1. Disconnect the USB cable.

2. Remove or disable the incorrect printer configuration.

3. Turn off Windows protected printing features if they interfere with the Epson driver.

4. Download the correct driver for your exact model from Epson.

5. Begin the Epson installer.

6. Reconnect USB only when prompted.

After installation, check Printing Preferences again.

You should see the normal Epson driver options rather than a very basic two-page Windows interface.

Configuring RIP Software for DTF Printing

Standard printer software does not know how to create a white underbase. Therefore, DTF printing requires RIP software that can separately control the color and white channels.

In the BCH Technologies workflow, the RIP configuration must match both the printer model and the modified ink order.

After installing the RIP software, select the correct printer and refresh the printer queue when required.

Important settings commonly include:

• Printer model

• Resolution

• Ink sequence

• Ink limit

• White ink density

• White choke

• Mirror printing

• Page dimensions

• Image position

The ink limit controls how much ink the printer deposits.

More ink does not automatically produce a better transfer. Excessive ink can cause:

• Bleeding

• Muddy details

• Poor curing

• Excessive drying time

• Film buckling

• White and color layers mixing

Therefore, beginning with a moderate ink limit is usually safer. Increase it only when testing shows that additional density is necessary.

Understanding White Choke

White choke is one of the most useful DTF RIP settings.

Normally, the RIP generates a white layer directly underneath the color artwork. If that white layer extends exactly to the edge of the color pixels, even a tiny registration difference may create a visible white outline.

White choke slightly shrinks the white underbase.

For example, imagine printing red lettering on a black shirt. Without enough choke, a thin white halo may appear around the edge of the red letters.

Reducing the white layer inward by a small amount keeps it hidden behind the color.

However, too much choke can create weak edges or reduce opacity around fine details. Therefore, adjust choke gradually and test with artwork containing:

• Fine text

• Curved edges

• Thin lines

• Solid blocks

• Transparent areas

The ideal value varies depending on resolution, artwork, ink flow, and printer condition.

Preparing Artwork Before Printing

Before sending a design to the printer, verify several settings in the RIP workspace.

First, define the correct page size.

Next, check whether the artwork needs to be mirrored. DTF transfers normally print in reverse because the printed side of the film faces the garment during heat pressing.

You should also verify:

• Artwork dimensions

• Aspect ratio

• Rotation

• Position

• Color layer

• White layer

Most RIP software allows you to preview the color image and white underbase independently.

Use that feature.

The white preview can quickly reveal areas that accidentally contain no white ink or areas where the white layer extends beyond the artwork.

Many RIP applications also offer duplicate, array, or fill functions. These tools are useful when printing multiple logos or small designs on one sheet.

Instead of arranging every object manually, an array can create a defined number of rows and columns, while a fill function can automatically populate the available film area.

Applying DTF Powder to the Printed Film

After printing, the ink is still wet.

While the ink remains wet, apply DTF adhesive powder evenly across the printed area.

The powder should stick only to the ink.

After coating the image, remove excess powder by gently shaking or tapping the film. Leaving piles of loose powder can produce rough transfer edges or uneven adhesive buildup.

Next, cure the powder.

During testing, a heat gun may work for small quantities. However, controlling temperature uniformly with a handheld heat gun can be difficult.

If you plan to produce DTF transfers regularly, a curing oven or purpose-built DTF curing system provides more consistent results.

As the adhesive cures, the powder changes appearance.

Uncured adhesive looks grainy or dusty. Properly melted powder becomes smoother and more uniform, sometimes developing a slightly glossy or textured appearance.

Avoid overheating the film. Excess heat can distort PET film, damage the ink layer, or partially scorch adhesive.

Maintaining White Ink After the Conversion

Converting the printer is only the beginning. White ink maintenance determines whether the printer continues working reliably.

White DTF ink contains heavy pigment that settles quickly.

If the printer sits unused for extended periods, pigment can accumulate in:

• Ink tanks

• Tubing

• Dampers

• Printhead channels

Therefore, gently agitate the white ink regularly.

Print nozzle checks frequently enough to identify problems early. A partially missing white channel is easier to correct than a completely clogged channel.

Keep the capping station clean as well. Dried white ink around the cap, wiper blade, and pump system can reduce suction during cleaning cycles.

Additionally, inspect the external waste bottle regularly.

Because DTF maintenance produces significant waste ink, the bottle may fill much faster than expected.

Never wait until it overflows.

Important Limitations of an EcoTank DTF Conversion

An ET-2803 conversion can provide an affordable entry into white-ink DTF printing, but it should not be confused with a production-grade commercial DTF machine.

A converted desktop printer usually requires more hands-on maintenance.

You may need to manage:

• White ink settling

• Nozzle checks

• Tube routing

• Waste ink

• Film feeding

• Manual powder application

• Manual curing

• RIP settings

Production DTF equipment often includes white-ink circulation, automated film feeding, powder application, and curing systems.

Those features cost more because they reduce manual labor and improve consistency.

For occasional transfers, prototypes, small businesses, or learning the DTF process, however, an A4 conversion can be a practical way to understand the technology without immediately investing in a large production system.

Getting Better Results From Your Converted ET-2803

The quality of a DTF transfer depends on the entire workflow rather than one setting.

A perfectly converted printer can still produce poor results if the film, powder, curing temperature, artwork, or heat-press process is incorrect.

For consistent output, keep notes on your settings.

Record items such as:

• RIP resolution

• Ink limit

• White choke

• Film brand

• Powder type

• Curing temperature

• Curing time

• Heat press temperature

• Press time

• Pressure

• Peel method

Then change only one variable at a time.

For example, if a print appears oversaturated, reduce the ink limit before changing several other settings simultaneously.

Likewise, if you see a white outline, adjust white choke rather than immediately changing print resolution, color density, and media settings.

This methodical approach makes troubleshooting much easier.

What to Keep in Mind Before Starting

Converting an Epson ET-2803 into a DTF printer can significantly reduce the cost of entering white-ink transfer printing, but the project requires patience and attention to detail.

The mechanical conversion removes components that interfere with wet DTF film, adds an external waste system, and adapts the ink tubing for the modified print path. Meanwhile, the ink configuration converts one of the printer's original CMYK channels into a white-ink channel.

Finally, the RIP software brings everything together by controlling color, white ink, ink density, mirroring, and choke.

At BCH Technologies, we recommend understanding the complete process before modifying the printer. Pay particular attention to ink placement, tube routing, star wheel removal, driver installation, and white ink maintenance because mistakes in these areas can create problems that are difficult to reverse.

If you prefer to see each step rather than rely only on written instructions, we have a video below showing how the Epson ET-2803 DTF conversion is performed, including the waste ink setup, ink arrangement, tube rail modification, software configuration, film preparation, printing, powder application, and curing process.

A small converted EcoTank printer will not replace a fully automated production DTF system. However, when configured and maintained correctly, it can provide a useful platform for learning DTF printing, producing small batches, testing artwork, and creating full-color transfers with a white underbase.