DTF printing price in Nigeria starts from as low as 500 Naira for a small print and can go up to 5,000 Naira or more for larger or more complex jobs. Prices vary based on size, design, material, and city. Lagos usually has the highest cost.
DTF Printing Price in Nigeria
DTF printing is becoming very popular across Nigeria because it allows people to print full-color designs on different types of fabrics. The price for DTF printing in Nigeria depends on a few things like the size of the print, how many pieces you want to print, and the materials used. Many people prefer it because it works well on both cotton and polyester and the results look sharp and clear.
In Nigeria, a small DTF print can cost as low as 500 Naira. For larger prints, the price can be up to 2,000 Naira or even more, especially in cities like Lagos and Abuja. The cost also goes down when you print in bulk.
Let’s break down how this works and what makes the price go up or down. If you’re thinking of starting a DTF printing business or you want to print clothes for yourself or your business, this information will help you.
What is DTF Printing and Why People Like It
DTF means Direct to Film. It’s a type of printing where your design is first printed on a special film, then transferred to fabric using heat. One good thing about it is that it can be used on many types of clothes, not just cotton like some other printing methods.
Unlike screen printing which needs separate screens for each design or color, DTF only needs one setup, making it cheaper for small orders. It also works faster and gives brighter colors.
Because it works well for both simple and complicated designs, DTF has become the top choice for many Nigerian fashion brands, especially those that do small batch or custom printing.
How DTF Printing Works
To understand why DTF printing costs what it does, it helps to know the steps involved.
First, the design is created on a computer. Then it is printed onto a clear PET film using special DTF ink. After that, a white powder is added to the back of the film and heated, which helps the design stick to the fabric. Finally, the film is placed on the cloth and pressed with a heat press machine. Once it cools, the film is peeled off, and the design stays on the cloth.
Each step uses specific tools and materials, which add to the cost.
Common Prices for DTF Printing in Nigeria
DTF printing prices in Nigeria vary depending on the location, size of the print, and quantity. On average, here’s what to expect:
| Print Type | Estimated Price (Naira) |
|---|---|
| Small size (like A5) | 500 to 600 |
| Medium size (A4) | 800 to 1,200 |
| Large size (A3) | 1,200 to 2,500 |
| Custom hoodie | 3,000 to 5,000 |
| Cap or small fabric item | 300 to 500 |
If you’re printing one piece, it will cost more than when you print in bulk. Some shops also give discounts if you bring your own clothes.
What Affects the Price of DTF Printing
There are several things that change the cost of printing. First is the size of the design. Bigger prints use more film and ink, so they cost more. The type of ink and powder used also matters. Original materials last longer but cost more than cheaper alternatives.
The quality of the design can affect the price too. Designs with many colors or tiny details take more time and ink. Shops also consider electricity bills and how much they pay for their printing machines.
Finally, the number of pieces you’re printing plays a big role. Printing 50 t-shirts is cheaper per piece than printing just one. Shops usually have a minimum order for discounts.
Prices in Different Nigerian Cities
Printing in big cities like Lagos and Abuja often costs more than in smaller towns. This is mostly because of rent, electricity costs, and staff salaries. Here’s a rough idea of prices in some cities:
In Lagos, you might pay 500 Naira for a small print and up to 2,000 Naira for a full shirt print. In Abuja, the cost is about the same. In cities like Port Harcourt and Kano, you might pay a little less, especially for bulk orders.
If you’re in a smaller town or printing with someone who works from home, you can sometimes get better deals.
How to Save Money on DTF Printing
One easy way to save money is by printing in bulk. Most printers give discounts if you print 10 or more items. Another way is to supply your own shirts or fabric. Some print shops also let you bring your own design if it’s already in the right format.
Look out for promotions. Some shops reduce prices during holiday seasons or when they’re trying to attract new customers. Comparing prices from different shops can also help you find the best deal.
Buying directly from local suppliers like Jumia Nigeria can also reduce your cost if you’re running a printing business.
Cost of Starting a DTF Business in Nigeria
Starting a small DTF printing setup from home can cost around 500,000 Naira to 700,000 Naira. This would cover a basic printer, heat press, some films, powder, and ink. But for a more serious or professional setup, expect to spend between 1.5 to 3 million Naira. This includes a high-quality printer, backup power, and a good workspace.
Don’t forget to plan for maintenance, repairs, and buying new supplies. Most people buy their equipment from websites like Alibaba or from local dealers in Lagos.
For more details on DTF machine prices, check out our other post where we list more options and their costs.
Printing for Personal Use or Business
If you just want to print a few custom shirts for a birthday, event, or business, it’s better to find a local shop and pay per piece. You can expect to pay between 500 and 2,000 Naira per print depending on what you want.
If you plan to sell custom t-shirts, hoodies, or even bags, DTF is a good way to go because it allows you to print small orders without spending too much.
Bulk Orders and Business Pricing
For business people, bulk printing is where you save the most. A shop might charge 1,200 Naira for one A3 shirt, but if you’re printing 50 pieces, you might pay just 800 Naira each.
Some online shops even offer fulfillment services where you upload your design and they print and ship the shirts for you. This works well if you’re running a store on platforms like Instagram or Jumia.
Real Experiences from Business Owners
Several print business owners in Nigeria have shared how they’ve used DTF printing to grow their businesses. One Lagos-based seller mentioned that bulk printing during election seasons or school resumption helped them earn steady income.
Another business in Ibadan said they made more profit switching from screen printing to DTF because it saves time and attracts more customers looking for colorful designs.
Price Trends and Market Changes
Prices of DTF materials have gone up in the last few years because most items are imported. The exchange rate also affects ink, powder, and film prices. When the dollar rate increases, the cost of printing also goes up.
Still, many people continue to choose DTF because it gives good value for money, especially for custom work.
Tools to Help You Calculate Printing Costs
There are simple pricing calculators available online that help you know how much you’re spending on each job. These tools add up the cost of film, ink, powder, fabric, and even power usage.
You can also create a spreadsheet to track your spending and see how much profit you make per job.
Important Things to Remember
Always check the quality of the materials a shop is using. Cheaper ink or powder might save money but the print may not last long after washing.
Be careful with print shops that give very cheap prices. Sometimes they reduce the quality or cut corners to make more money. Ask for samples before placing a big order.
Choosing a Reliable Printing Shop
Look for print shops with good reviews or ask for referrals. Some trusted printers list their services on Fiverr or advertise on Instagram. Shops in Surulere, Ikeja, and Yaba in Lagos are known for good quality work.
If you’re outside Lagos, try local markets or online stores with a good reputation.
Before You Go…
DTF printing price in Nigeria is fairly reasonable for both individuals and businesses. Whether you want to print just one shirt or a hundred, there’s an option that fits your budget. It’s important to understand what affects the cost and know how to get the best value for your money.
DTF printing is here to stay. It’s affordable, flexible, and perfect for today’s fast-moving fashion and branding world. With the right approach, it can be both a cost-effective printing option and a profitable business opportunity.