Roland DGA Corporation (Irvine, California), a leading provider of wide-format inkjet printers, printer/cutters, vinyl cutters, and other advanced digital devices, has launched its new VersaStudio BN-20D Direct-to-Film System. “Combining outstanding print quality with simple, ultra-reliable operation, this advanced, affordable desktop solution makes customizing apparel and accessories with eye-catching graphics – even the most detailed images and text – easier than ever,” said the OEM. The system complements Roland DGA’s existing family of compact VersaStudio printers designed to help smaller home-based and office-based print providers boost their businesses. Built around the compact BN-20D Direct-to-Film Printer, the system is a complete apparel decoration solution that consists of specially formulated S-PG inks in CMYK and White, S-F164 direct transfer film, and S-Powder direct-transfer powder (each sold separately. Users can create stunning custom T-shirts, tote bags, aprons, and more in just four simple steps, with no weeding or masking required.
Direct-to-film (DTF) transfer has been attracting worldwide attention in the apparel decoration industry recently due to how easy this process enhances clothing and accessories with crisp and vibrant graphics. After printing illustrations, photos, and other graphics on a special film, powder is applied to the to the film, which is then thermally melted. This eliminates the need for labour-intensive removal of waste from unnecessary areas, and retouching – which not only makes the work process more efficient, but also allows production of more complex and appealing designs.
“A significant advantage of the BN-20D Direct-to-Film System is its ability to print extremely detailed images and fine lines that would be difficult, or even impossible to weed, using vinyl,” said Roland DGA’s Product Manager of Digital Print, Daniel Valade. “In addition, knocking out the backgrounds in the design and using the garment colour as the background, allows for a transfer with a soft, natural hand.” While the direct-to-film process doesn’t require integrated print-and-cut functionality for the application, the BN-20D can also be utilized as a standalone vinyl cutter, allowing users to expand their services. Plus, switching from DTF printing to CAD Cut vinyl cutting is quick and easy, requiring just a few clicks of the mouse in the BN-20D’s built-in VersaWorks RIP software.