DTF printing is a lot more approachable than it looks, even if you’re just starting out. I’ve done a bunch of projects and orders on my Procolored L1800 for local businesses and friends, and this is how I make a shirt from start to finish.
I pick a design on Creative Fabrica, bring it into Photoshop and then ProRip to lay it out, print it, powder and cure the transfer, and press it onto a shirt with my HTVRont auto heat press.
A couple of things I’ve learned: let the print sit for a few minutes before you powder it so the powder sticks better, and adjust your printer settings based on pigment levels, since white ink adheres better. I also had a small printing error during this one, so I just reprinted it.
You can absolutely do this at home with equipment and software you can get your hands on. Don’t be afraid to mess up a few, learn from it and tweak the process for your own designs.