Welcome to another insightful Shop Talk session, where we dive deep into the world of direct-to-garment (DTG) printing. Today, we’re focusing on a crucial element that can make or break your printing quality: pre-treatment. Joining Rick is Erienne Murphy from Eastern Tech, who brings a wealth of knowledge on this topic. Let’s explore how pre-treatment works, why it’s essential, and how to avoid common pitfalls.

Understanding Pre-Treatment

Pre-treatment is essentially a chemical solution that acts as a primer, similar to what you would use when painting a wall. Just as you wouldn’t paint directly onto a bare wall, you shouldn’t print directly onto fabric without pre-treatment. This primer allows for a chemical bond, ensuring that the ink sits on top of the pre-treatment rather than soaking into the garment. This results in vibrant prints that stand up to washing.

Common Issues and Solutions

One of the common concerns with pre-treatment is the dreaded “dark box” that sometimes appears around your print. This is often due to improper curing or too much pre-treatment being applied. A good rule of thumb is to start with about 25 grams of pre-treatment for a 14×16 area and only apply it where the print will be. This not only saves on costs but also minimizes the risk of discoloration.

However, certain colors, like Carolina blue or sport gray, are notorious for causing issues. The dyes used in these colors can react with the pre-treatment, leading to staining that may or may not wash out. Factors like the manufacturer and even the country of origin can influence how dyes react, so consistency can be tricky.

Tips for Effective Pre-Treatment

• Testing is Key: Experiment with different amounts of pre-treatment, especially when working with various fabric types and colors.
• Use of Conveyor Dryers: A conveyor dryer can help evaporate moisture and reduce discoloration. If you’re using a heat press right after applying pre-treatment, you may be sealing in moisture, which can cause staining.
• Environmental Factors: Keep your garments in a climate-controlled environment prior to printing. This can help maintain the integrity of the pre-treatment over time.

How Long Does Pre-Treatment Last?

Surprisingly, pre-treated shirts can remain effective for up to a year if stored properly. However, the longer they sit, the more variables come into play, such as humidity and fabric integrity. If you notice a stain after an extended period, it may be due to these factors rather than a failure in the pre-treatment process itself.

Addressing Yellowing and Staining

Yellowing after pre-treatment is a common issue, particularly with light-colored garments. To combat this, consider lowering your temperature settings when curing. If you’re experiencing consistent yellowing, you might need to reevaluate your drying process or the specific pre-treatment solution you’re using.

Choosing the Right Pre-Treatment

Not all pre-treatments are created equal. Different formulations can yield varying results. Some newer options even allow for printing white ink on white shirts, which can enhance vibrancy. You may also need to be adjusting for different fabrics. Dark garments often require more pre-treatment than light ones. Be prepared to test and adjust your approach accordingly.

Conclusion

Pre-treatment is an essential step in the DTG printing process that can dramatically affect the quality of your prints. By understanding its role and carefully managing its application, you can achieve vibrant, lasting results that your customers will love. Don’t forget: testing is your best friend in this process. Keep experimenting, stay informed, and your DTG game will be on point!