“Unbeatable Value – A3 R1390 DTF at the Best Price!” -MAXDTF- DTF cold peel Factory, DTF Film 11×17 Manufacturer, Made in China
1. Introduction: The Price Context of A3 R1390 DTF Systems
The A3 R1390 DTF (Direct-to-Film) setup—based on the reliable Epson R1390 printer, modified for DTF printing—has become a go-to for small businesses and hobbyists seeking A3-sized (297×420mm) custom prints. Its price is not a single figure but a combination of initial hardware costs, ongoing consumables, and hidden expenses. Understanding this breakdown is crucial to avoiding budget overruns and maximizing return on investment (ROI), whether you’re starting a custom apparel business or expanding your printing capabilities.
2. Core Costs: Initial Hardware and Setup
The primary investment lies in the printer and DTF conversion kit, as the R1390 is typically repurposed from its original photo-printing function. A new or refurbished Epson R1390 printer ranges from $300–$600, with refurbished units offering better value for budget-conscious buyers. The DTF conversion kit—including a powder shaker, heating element, and modified print heads—adds $200–$400, depending on brand and automation level. Total initial hardware costs usually fall between $500–$1,000, excluding essential accessories like a heat press (starting at $300 for entry-level A3 models).
Key price variables here include printer condition (new vs. refurbished) and kit quality—premium kits with automated powder application cost more but reduce labor time, a trade-off that pays off for frequent use.
3. Ongoing Expenses: Consumables and Maintenance
Like all DTF systems, the A3 R1390 incurs regular costs for consumables, which form the bulk of long-term spending. A3 DTF film rolls (100m length) cost $80–$120, yielding roughly 200–250 prints depending on design size. DTF inks (CMYK + white) are sold in 100ml bottles for $15–$25 each, with white ink (the most used in DTF) accounting for 40–50% of ink consumption. For a small business printing 50 items weekly, monthly consumable costs average $150–$250.
Maintenance costs are minimal but unavoidable: replacement print heads ($50–$80 each, lifespan 6–12 months) and cleaning solutions ($10–$20 per bottle) add $50–$100 annually. These align with industry standards for mid-range DTF setups, where ongoing costs often outweigh initial investment over time.
4. Maximizing Value: Cost-Saving Tips and ROI
To optimize the A3 R1390 DTF’s cost-effectiveness, prioritize compatible, high-quality consumables—cheaper off-brand inks may cause clogs, increasing maintenance costs. Buying film and ink in bulk (e.g., 500m film rolls) reduces per-unit expenses by 15–20%. For maintenance, regular cleaning and using manufacturer-recommended supplies extend print head lifespan, cutting replacement costs.
ROI depends on usage: a small apparel shop printing 100 custom t-shirts monthly can recoup initial costs in 3–6 months, thanks to the R1390’s low per-print cost ($0.80–$1.20 vs. $2–$3 for outsourcing). Its A3 capacity also allows printing multiple small designs per sheet, minimizing material waste and boosting efficiency.
Conclusion
The A3 R1390 DTF system offers a budget-friendly entry into A3-sized DTF printing, with total initial costs of $800–$1,300 (including heat press) and manageable monthly expenses. Its value lies in balancing affordability with versatility, making it ideal for small businesses and hobbyists. By understanding the full cost structure—from hardware to consumables—and adopting cost-saving practices, users can leverage the A3 R1390 to deliver high-quality prints while maintaining healthy profit margins.
