Optimizing DTG Printing: The Link Between White Ink, Print Durability, and Curing
- By Jee Comendador
- On Dec 06, 2023
- Comment 0
DTG printing has become a game-changer in the world of custom apparel, offering vivid and intricate designs directly onto garments. A recent conversation in the DTG community highlighted a concern regarding the relationship between the amount of white ink used in the underbase and the durability of the print. Let's delve into the insights shared by experienced users and explore the crucial factors influencing print quality and longevity.
Print Quality: Choosing the Right Settings
The initial query raised the question of whether the amount of white ink in the underbase affects print durability. Users shared their experiences, emphasizing the impact of printing resolution on the final result.
One user reported a noticeable difference in durability when comparing prints at 1440 x 1440 dpi to those at 1440 x 720 dpi. Higher resolution seemed to correlate with better durability, with the lower resolution prints exhibiting a "cracked" appearance even after the first wash.
The Role of Ink Quantity and Pretreatment
Responding to the query, a user highlighted the importance of ink quantity and pretreatment in achieving durable prints. While acknowledging that using less ink might affect durability, they emphasized the need for a sufficient amount to penetrate the pretreatment and bind effectively to the fabric.
To enhance white ink prominence, the user recommended adjusting percentage levels on AcroRIP, sometimes employing multiple passes of white ink followed by color. Additionally, the choice of white ink was deemed crucial, with the user expressing satisfaction with KODAK DTG White ink for its reliability and reduced risk of clogging.
Print Thickness and Curing Technique
Another user shared concerns about achieving the thickness of prints observed in competitor's garments. The response highlighted the significance of curing as a key factor in print durability. Regardless of ink quantity, factors such as t-shirt quality, composition, pretreatment, and washing method, the user stressed that optimal curing is essential.
Curing, described as the process of "baking" inks into the garment and forming cross-links between the garment and ink, was identified as the cornerstone of print longevity. The user recommended conducting a wash test before delivering garments to customers, emphasizing the importance of calibration and fine-tuning of DTG printing machines.
A Holistic Approach to DTG Printing
In the dynamic world of DTG printing, achieving optimal print durability requires a holistic approach. Balancing factors such as print resolution, ink quantity, pretreatment, and curing technique is crucial for producing vibrant and long-lasting prints. As users continue to share their experiences and insights, the DTG community evolves, contributing to the collective knowledge of this innovative printing technology.
For more in-depth discussions and tutorials, consider following BCH Technologies on YouTube or exploring their tech blog. If you're in the Greensboro, North Carolina area, local resources can provide hands-on support and guidance in mastering the art of DTG printing.