Focus on DTG Printing
The fabric counts D
TG printing works best on 100% cotton, everyone appreciates that. But DTG printing is not solely limited to this fabric composition. It is also possible to directly print on poly-blends and tri-blends. When it comes to these fabrics, the more cotton in the composition the better, otherwise the difficulty of printing on synthetic materials will increase. Printing on 100% polyester is still a challenge for DTG printing, despite recent technological advances.
Another factor to take into consideration is whether the cotton is regular cotton or ring spun. Just what is the difference between the two? The process of making regular cotton consists of twisting together soft vegetable fibres into yarn. Next, the yarn is woven together to create regular cotton material. Whereas the yarn that is created for ring spun cotton is spun in a way that produces stronger, longer strands that are soft, extremely durable and free from the rough texture of standard raw cotton. Also, there may be fewer fibres sticking out which can help with fibrillation issues. The process of continuously spinning, twisting, and thinning the cotton strands is what yields long, soft strands. And finally, other factors that can influence the quality of a DTG print, and are worth taking into account, include: ● Silicone finishing. ● Optical brighteners. ● Structure of the fabric (too tight and it is water repellent, too loose or ribbed and different colour shades can appear). When it comes to garments to print on, several manufacturers have created ranges and products that have
It is well-known in the direct to garment printing sphere, that the type of fabric used has an effect on the quality of the print produced. But which, what and why?
been optimised for DTG printing. Take for example the following three brands.
Russell offers a wide choice of garments that offer second-to- none surfaces for finishing. Due to its extensive range the Authentic Sweat styles offer the right design for every occasion. The Authentic Sweat styles in 80% combed, ring spun cotton with a three-layer construction are optimally suited for any type of printing. In addition, the white-label design permits the range to be personalised easily. American Apparel’s Fine Jersey T shirts are made for decoration. Exceptionally smooth and tight-knit, they offer the ideal surface for custom prints, especially using DTG printing. When the inks soak into the combed ring spun fibres of the fine jersey fabric, the DTG finish is incredible. With this collection, decorators can make full use of the vast colour options that DTG printers offer. As there is practically no limit to the colour possibilities, these shirts are perfect for printing businesses that want to experiment with colour and design. Decorators can expect to get high-quality prints with vivid details and colours. The latest addition to the Fine Jersey line is the Unisex Long Sleeve T-Shirt (2007W), a great go-to tee for any season. And finally, the new Gildan SoftStyle EZ Print T-Shirt is made from enzyme washed fabric making it the perfect garment for DTG printing. A high stitch density creates a smoother printing surface too. The T shirt offers a classic fit with a seamed collar and taped neck and shoulders. A tear out label makes this T shirt easily rebrandable. It is available in four colours and in sizes S-3XL.
Russell’s Authentic Melange Hooded Sweat 261M/F
| 66 | April 2020
American Apparel’s Unisex Long Sleeve T-Shirt (2007W)
Gildan’s SoftStyle EZ Print T-Shirt
www.printwearandpromotion.co.uk
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