Shrinking Issues in 3-Color Print on Cotton Shirts: A Troubleshooting Guide

Are you experiencing frustrating shrinking issues during the process of 3-color printing on cotton shirts? You're not alone. This common problem can be vexing, but fear not, as we delve into potential causes and solutions to rectify this issue.

Identifying the Problem

The scenario described involves printing on Gildan soft style 100% cotton shirts, encountering shrinkage after applying subsequent colors following an underbase. Despite adjustments in flash temperature and duration, as well as cooldown time variations, the issue persists. The possibility of atmospheric moisture contributing to the problem is also considered.

Root Causes and Solutions

1. Material Composition: Cotton, being a natural fiber, is susceptible to shrinkage when exposed to heat. Ensure the shirts and testers are indeed 100% cotton and not blended with other materials, as blends may react differently to heat.
2. Flash Temperature and Duration: While flashing is crucial for curing ink between color layers, excessive heat or prolonged exposure can cause shrinkage. Experiment with reducing flash temperature and duration slightly to mitigate this effect. A range of 85-92 degrees Celsius for 3-5 seconds is typically suitable for cotton garments.
3. Moisture Content: Moisture in the air, particularly after heavy rainfall, can impact the printing process. It's advisable to maintain a controlled environment with optimal humidity levels to minimize such effects. Utilizing dehumidifiers or air conditioning may help stabilize conditions.
4. Test on Actual Shirts: Testing on actual shirts rather than samples is essential, as

it provides a more accurate representation of the printing outcome. Differences in fabric density and composition between testers and actual shirts can influence the results significantly.

1. Cool Down Time: While cooldown time between flashes is necessary to prevent overheating, excessive cooling may also contribute to shrinkage. Find a balance by allowing sufficient cooldown time to avoid overheating while minimizing the risk of fabric shrinkage.
2. Ink Compatibility: Ensure the ink used is compatible with cotton fabric and suitable for the printing method employed. Certain ink formulations may react differently to heat and humidity, affecting the final result.

Additional Considerations

• Fabric Pre-Treatment: Consider pre-treating the fabric with a fabric softener or pre-shrinking solution to minimize shrinkage before printing. This step can help stabilize the fabric and reduce the likelihood of shrinkage during the printing process.
• Quality Control: Regularly inspecting equipment, including flash units and printing machinery, can help identify any issues contributing to shrinkage. Routine maintenance and calibration ensure optimal performance and consistent results.
• Environmental Factors: Beyond moisture content, factors such as temperature fluctuations and airflow within the printing environment can influence the outcome. Maintaining stable environmental conditions is crucial for achieving consistent printing results.

Addressing shrinking issues during 3-color printing on cotton shirts requires a systematic approach to identify and mitigate potential causes. By understanding the material properties, adjusting printing parameters, and controlling environmental variables, it's possible to achieve satisfactory results without compromising on print quality or garment integrity.

For more in-depth tutorials and troubleshooting tips, consider subscribing to our YouTube channel, where we regularly share insights and solutions for common printing challenges. You can also stay

updated on the latest developments by following our tech blog or visiting us locally in Greensboro, North Carolina. Remember, persistence and experimentation are key to mastering the art of garment printing. Happy printing!