Choosing the correct materials and typical difficulties to address are only the beginning of what you'll learn about printing DTF on black shirts in this post. No doubt, Mad Monkey Transfers make it simpler for the novice to understand it. In fact, even those who have not been exposed to such a process even once in their life.
Now, for those who are new to printing DTF transfers or who are already avid fans, this detailed instruction will explain to them how to do it on black shirts.
A basic understanding of direct transfer printing is necessary before delving into the specifics of DTF printing on black shirts. The term "direct-to-film" refers to the method of pressing transfer film onto cloth after printing patterns onto it. Screen printing and heat transfer vinyl are two of the most conventional printing technologies; this one is more adaptable, produces brighter colors, and has more detail.
Printing on dark garments like black shirts is a breeze with DTF because the patterns it creates are vivid and durable. In order for colors to show out on dark fabrics, DTF printing does not require a white backdrop, unlike other transfer processes. It is why it's so perfect for adorning basic black shirts with designs.
The Things Necessary for Printing DTF on Black Shirts
If you want your DTF transfers to look good and last when printed on black shirts, there are a few things you'll need. The following materials are required for the procedure:
- The printer is compatible with both white toner and DTF ink.
- Developed specifically for DTF transfer applications
- Often referred to as "high-quality printing ink," DTF ink.
- Sublimation printers and white toner printers are both suitable for printing the design.
- A heat press machine is required for fabric printing.
- If you are to genuinely prove to yourself that fabric prints nicely, you'll need powdered DTF glue for it.
- As well as by wearing black shirts made from either all-cotton material or a milder blend of cotton along with polyester, in fact, the latter might be an ideal choice.
After the printing is completed, you may work on curing the transfer material in a heat press. No less, if you are lacking in the necessary items and other tools for it, you can check our DTF supplies for it.
Printing On Black Shirts Requires White Ink
Using white ink makes all the difference when printing on bright and dark materials. White ink is used as a foundation layer when printing on black garments so that the colors seem vivid and accurate. Even on really dark clothes, such as black shirts, the brighter elements of the pattern are emphasized by the white overlay.
Any other color or design will be hard to see on black cloth unless you use white ink. Your printer needs white ink if you want to print on dark clothes. If you want clean work when printing on dark sheets, you'll need a printer with white ink or a special DTF printer with white toner.
Considerations When Crafting Black Shirts
As we can tell, making sure that the graphical details display an eye-catching and aesthetically pleasing appeal on black shirts. Furthermore, when you are planning to design them in such an ideal creative vision.
To avoid problematic blurring, you have to use some high-resolution images with at least 300 dpi or above when scaling your design.
On top of that, the white ink layer is distributed as the head foundation. Hence, aligning the sections of your design that require a substantial amount of color with it.
As black may be suitable in specific designs, it's better to stay away from it in areas that won't be ideal to print with white ink. Now, by doing this, you will guarantee that the design is legible on solid black cloth.
With our professional DTF support system for our customers, they tend to avoid taking advantage of the backdrop. Yet, it is crucial that you should probably take advantage of backdrop transparency for your design if you intend to employ direct transfer printing on dark shirts. No less, it gets to aid the customers who’ve implemented it on their own. On the whole, it is essential for a good coverage of the black fabric by the white ink.
You Must Begin By Configuring Your DTF Printer
For one thing, having your DTF printer ready to go is the beginning. Now, before printing on the black attire, just be sure your printer has DTF ink. To say more, it gets to contain all that white ink. But yes, you must be careful to use the correct toner cartridges in your printer if it uses a white toner. As you go on, verify that your printer is online and has the proper settings before you attempt to print on transfer film.
Put The Glue Powder On
You can now use the adhesive powder because of the written design. When the cloth gets hot, this powder will keep the ink from smearing or moving. Put glue powder all over the design while the printed film is still wet. remove any extra powder so that it doesn't stick together.
After That, Wait For The Transfer Film To Dry
The printed transfer film can be baked and the pattern set using a heat press machine or a curing oven. The print solidifies, and the adhesive powder adheres to the ink during the curing phase. On a machine ranging from 180 to 190 °C, press the material for 5 to 10 minutes.
Remove The Transfer Film
Once the transfer film has set, you can cut it to size. Moving on, you may gently remove any excessive film by cutting cautiously around the design with a hand cutter or scissors if you prefer. However, don't risk ruining the design by cutting too close to it.
Preparing The Black Shirt For Transfer
Ironing creases into a garment is a pain unless the fabric is dry, clean and totally debris-free. Therefore, cleansing and removing lint from clothes is the primary purpose of a lint roller. First, give the fabric a swift heat moment in order to remove any extra moisture or wrinkles. In fact, it starts prior to pressing it with the actual heat press. Hence, now is the time to check if the transfer adhesion is strong.
Transfer The Design By Pressing It With A Heat Press
Stack the garments with the printed side of the DTF transfer film. Press the design for approximately 10 to 15 seconds at a temperature of 160 to 170°C using a heat press. Press firmly to secure the design onto the fabric. Carefully remove the transfer film from the shirt while it is still warm from pressing. Once it's cooled down a bit, you may remove it.
Tips for Fixing Common Issues
Although you may encounter some challenges, DTF printing on black clothing is not very difficult:
If you see that the colors are becoming drab, try using a white ink layer with high-quality DTF ink.
The idea might not transfer properly if the heat press doesn't use uniform pressure. To maintain consistent pressure and heat, use a heat press.
Verify that the design is adhering correctly by checking the curing temperatures and timings. Adjust as necessary to ensure that the adhesive powder adheres to the fabric.
Maintenance Tips for Your DTF Printed Shirts
By preserving the whole pattern structure, you must turn the garment in a reverse position before washing. Thus, by gently laundering it in cold water as you use a gentle detergent.
Refrain from using the dryer's maximum heat setting. The best way to preserve the transfer is to air-dry the shirts.
Conclusion
With all the profound methods that we have shared with our customers, they get to at least step up their game in their creative endeavours. On the other hand, some who require a more specialised touch get to come for more of our Custom DTF Transfers.
Meanwhile, the aforementioned procedures will ensure that your prints seem fantastic and last for an extended period. Printing with DTF on dark materials is possible with the correct setup, care, and tools.