xTool's WonderPress Promises a Modular Approach to Heat Pressing, Baking, and Vacuum Forming
Three-in-one modular device for makers is crowdfunding now, with early-bird pricing putting it below $600.
xTool, best known for its range of laser cutters, has launched a crowdfunding campaign for a device it calls the xTool WonderPress — and that can use swappable modules to switch between heat press, 3D sublimation, vacuum forming, curing, and baking modes on demand.
"Heat pressing has always promised a world of infinite creation. But the reality? Most makers get stuck with flat T-shirts and predictable tote bags," claims xTool's Ming Qin of the problem the company set out to solve with its latest tool. "xTool WonderPress breaks those boundaries. "We've reimagined the heat press as a modular creative hub. By switching between three simple modules, WonderPress seamlessly transitions between five workflows: auto heat press; 3D sublimation; vacuum forming; professional DTF [Direct to Film print] curing; versatile craft baking."
In its base form with the Heat Press Module fitted, the xTool WonderPress is a simple heat press designed for flat sublimation print transfer and DTF transfer onto fabrics — though the company says it offers a range of advantages over rival devices, including more even heating and up to 100kg of pressure. Swapping out to the 3D Form Module moves things into the third dimension, allowing for 3D sublimation transfer, and vacuum forming include vacuum casting. Finally, the Craft Oven Module bakes — not cookies, but thermoform plastics, while also allowing for DTF curing and shrink-film sublimation transfer.
"No tools, no screws," Qin promises of the swapover between modules. "Just swap modules in seconds. WonderPress instantly recognizes the attached module and matches the settings for you."
The base module includes a circular display with rotary dial for its user interface, and comes with the promise of an integrated triple-layer true-HEPA air filter capable of "neutralizing DTF fumes and odors at the source." xTool has also announced laser positioning add-ons, which clip to the frame to provide a visual guide for aligning materials — though these are at additional cost, at $9.90 per horizontal- or cross-line guide.
The company is currently crowdfunding the xTool WonderPress on Kickstarter, with "super early bird" rewards starting at $279 for the base heat press module, $449 with heat press and 3D form modules, $479 with heat press and oven modules, or $599 with all three modules — roughly 30-35% off the machine's planned retail price, depending on bundle. All hardware is expected to ship in July this year, though as with all crowdfunding campaigns fulfillment is not guaranteed — even from a company as well-established as xTool.