Roland debuts VersaSTUDIO BN-20D DTF system
Roland DGA Corp. launhced a 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, the company said.
The system is a complete apparel decoration solution consisting of specially formulated S-PG inks in CMYK and White, S-F164 direct transfer film, and S-POWDER direct transfer powder (each sold separately), the company said. Equipped with this system, 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 due to how easy this process makes enhancing clothing and accessories with head-turning 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 labor-intensive removal of waste from unnecessary areas, and retouching, which not only makes the work process more efficient, but also allows for the 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,” points out Daniel Valade, Roland DGA’s Product Manager of Digital Print. “In addition, knocking out the backgrounds in the design and using the garment color as the background allows for a transfer with a soft, natural hand.”
The BN-20D can also be used as a stand-alone vinyl cutter, allowing users to expand their application offerings. Making the switch from direct-to-film printing to CAD Cut vinyl cutting is quick and easy, requiring just a few clicks of the mouse in the BN-20D’s included VersaWorks® RIP software.
The BN-20D can transfer onto both light and dark fabrics, including not only cotton, but also polyester, cotton polyester, denim, nylon, rayon and more, to produce a wide variety of garments. An automated cutting function also makes it possible for the BN-20D to produce logo and other graphic designs using glitter and metallic color vinyl, which is difficult with standard inkjet printing. In addition, the ink is compliant with OEKO-TEX*, an international standard that guarantees the safety of apparel decoration, making it safe for use on clothing for children and pets.
The BN-20D Direct-to-Film Printer comes bundled with VersaWorks 6 software – Roland DG’s most advanced, user-friendly RIP to date. VersaWorks 6 boasts a HARLEQUIN RIP dual-core engine, faster processing speeds, the ability to handle and correctly process complex PDF, EPS, and PS files with drop shadows and transparencies, comprehensive Roland Color System and PANTONE color libraries, plus a host of additional useful features.
“Apparel applications continue to be a driving force behind the small business market segment, and the direct-to-film process has grown in popularity,” said Valade. The new BN-20D Direct-to-Film System offers what the competition simply can’t provide – optimum print“ quality, ease of use, and legendary reliability, backed by a Roland DG manufacturer’s warranty,” he added. “This system provides small office and home office businesses with the tools they need to produce top-quality direct-to-film apparel with complete confidence.”