Direct-to-garment (DTG) printing is a modern method of printing designs directly onto fabrics and textiles with the use of specialised inkjet technology. There are several types of products you can customise through DTG printing in Singapore, but the most popular ones are T-shirts. This technique essentially allows for high-quality, full-colour prints with intricate details, making it a popular choice for custom T-shirt printing. However, a common issue with DTG-printed T-shirts is the tendency for the prints to fade over time.
Despite the initial vibrancy and clarity of the designs, many users find that the prints lose their sharpness and colour intensity after several washes, which can be disappointing for those seeking long-lasting custom garments. While fading is a common issue with DTG-printed shirts and other apparel, there are actually many possible reasons why your shirt prints fade more quickly than usual. Here are five of the most common reasons behind fading DTG prints.
1. Low-quality ink adhesion
A common problem in DTG printing is insufficient ink adhesion. If the ink fails to adhere well to the fabric, it can result in prints that are uneven or faded. This issue is often due to inadequate pre-treatment, which is crucial for ensuring that the ink bonds correctly, particularly on dark-coloured fabrics.
To solve this issue, make sure there is proper ink adhesion when printing shirts using the DTG method. Apply the recommended amount of pre-treatment solution evenly, avoiding both under- and over-application. After pre-treatment, thoroughly dry the garment with a heat press until it is dry to the touch. Finally, perform a test print to check ink adhesion and make any necessary adjustments.
2. Washed-out colours
If your prints look faded or dull immediately after printing or curing, it usually indicates issues with print settings or pre-treatment. Incorrect printer settings or inadequate pre-treatment can cause colours to appear less vibrant and lacking in depth.
If washed-out colours are the cause of your faded DTG prints, you can solve the problem by making sure that the garment is evenly pre-treated, particularly for darker fabrics, using a high-quality machine. Optimise your printer settings for the fabric type, including correct ink settings and colour profiles, and increase ink density if needed. Then, properly cure the garment at the right temperature and time to ensure that the ink bonds well. For dark garments, apply a white underbase correctly to make the colours stand out.
3. Substandard cotton or high polyester content
Sometimes, the problem with T-shirt printing lies not in the method but in the quality of the fabric used. This is especially true if you are using a substandard cotton or a fabric with high polyester content for DTG printing. DTG printing is ideal for 100% cotton garments, but high polyester content T-shirts often result in faded prints due to dye migration, especially with dark colours.
Polyester dye basically seeps into the CMYK ink layer over time, which is accelerated by heat during curing. Compared to dark colours, lighter colours and white polyester shirts are less affected. Some print shops use lower-temperature curing to delay fading, but alternative methods like sublimation are better for polyester. To avoid this problem, using high-quality cotton is recommended, as great cotton shirts with combed fibres and ringspun offer a smoother surface for printing, thereby reducing the risk of faded prints compared to low-quality, open-end cotton shirts.
4. Ink cracking
It is incredibly frustrating to produce a beautifully printed T-shirt, only to see the ink crack after washing. This cracking diminishes the quality and durability of the print, which then affects customer satisfaction. The problem here is often due to improper curing or the application of excessive ink.
To avoid the issue of ink cracking after washing, be sure to cure garments at the correct time (90 to 120 seconds) and temperature (320°F) to ensure proper ink bonding. Avoid over-inking by using the recommended ink settings for the garment type you are using, adjusting as needed to prevent thick layers. Afterwards, conduct wash tests on printed garments to check durability, and if cracking does occur, review your curing and ink application processes.
5. Improper printing of white ink
White ink issues, such as fading, streaking, or uneven coverage, are common in DTG printing due to its thicker consistency. This thicker ink needs special care, as it often settles in the ink lines and cartridges, thereby causing poor ink flow or clogged nozzles.
To maintain white ink quality, be sure to regularly agitate the cartridges or use the printer’s automatic ink circulation system to prevent settling. Perform nozzle checks before each printing session to make sure all nozzles are functioning correctly, thereby avoiding streaks or gaps in your design. Moreover, maintain the printing area’s humidity between 45% to 65% to prevent the ink from drying out and clogging the print head. Finally, store white ink cartridges in a cool place and agitate them regularly to prevent settling.
Conclusion
Fading is undoubtedly a common issue with DTG-printed T-shirts, and several factors can contribute to this problem. Each of these factors can affect the durability and appearance of the prints, thereby leading to disappointment for those expecting long-lasting designs. By understanding these potential issues, you can help prevent, or at least slow down, the fading of your DTG prints and enjoy the beauty of your printed shirts for more years.
If you are looking for the most trusted and affordable DTG and other printing services in Singapore, look no further than Direct T Shirt! We offer a variety of premium printing services through different reliable methods, such as DTG, silk screen, and heat transfer. When providing our services, we utilise state-of-the-art printers to guarantee exceptional results for all our customers. To find out more about our services, be sure to reach out to us anytime.
