Funny enough, I found this forum by googling how to try to make my own auto DTF machine, and I came across your thread where you made your own. If this works well manually (thinking of converting an Epson 1430 that's been laying around for a year just for some orders), then I will be following your plans to make an automatic machine as well. Can't wait for you to get that done.
As for the money savings...I will absolutely be buying from here, not China. I currently use white toner printing (biggest regret ever), and each sheet costs a minimum of $4 (not including ink costs). That's not factoring in the many, many damaged prints I continue to get.