This episode provides an overview of Direct-to-Garment (DTG) and Direct-to-Film (DTF) printing processes. We'll delve into the similarities and differences between these two cutting-edge technologies, explaining where each fits into your garment decorating business. Gain insights into essential techniques for pretreating, printing, and curing to ensure top-quality results. Additionally, we will cover important aspects such as shirt selection, safety measures, and effective marketing strategies. Perfect for decorators looking to expand their knowledge and elevate their printing capabilities.
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News
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Dad Joke
Terry: What did Jay-Z call his wife before they were married?
Feyonce
DTG and DTF
Aaron: Plug for Printing United Education. https://www.ilearningplus.org/courses/dtgdtf-printing-technology-essentials
This course will cover “what’s possible” and “how-to” of DTG and DTF printing
After completing all of the knowledge assessments we are pleased to also share with you a great resource you can use if you are looking to purchase DTG or DTF equipment. It is a list of questions to ask the manufacturer.
Terry - MODULE 1: Direct-to-Garment - The Process
Inkjet printing directly onto a garment
Components in the process
The DTG printer - Purpose-built or repurposed inkjet printer
Pretreat method
Curing after the print
Learning curve
Ink Volume versus Desired Look (Ink Cost)
Losing the Qty. Break Mindset
Artwork separates one decorator from the next
300 dpi file save at full size, and ideally with a transparent background
Terry - MODULE 2: Pretreating
What is pretreat solution and why is it important?
Application options
Paint roller
Pump sprayer
Pressurized sprayer
Power paint sprayer
Automatic sprayer - open
Automatic sprayer - fully enclosed
Match your ink system
Pretreated shirts
Terry - MODULE 3: Curing DTG Prints
Heat press
Clam v Swingaway
Hovering
Conveyor dryer
Any drawbacks - Different from SP Curing
Teflon or Silicon paper
Specialty Treatments (Foil - Brief)
Aaron - MODULE 4: Direct-to-Film on a DTG Machine
Blotches in the image area? Preheat the film
How it works on a DTG machine
Why DTF on a DTG machine?
Wider range of substrates
Dye migration
What do I need to change to make this work?
PET film - Polyethylene terephthalate
Adhesive powder - Polyurethane resin
Applying adhesive powder
While the ink is still wet, pour powder onto the film and allow it to roll across the ink
Shake the film to remove excel powder
Enclosed powder/shakers
Why is there white and black powder?
Terry - MODULE 5: Curing the Films and Application
Orange peel finish
It will not be ORANGE
Depending on your cure method - 90+ seconds
Conveyor dryer
Bottom heat element heat press
Using the heat press you have
Can I just hover over the transfer?
Cut sheet dryer oven
Applying the transfer to a garment
275F-330F for 15 seconds