GPI Pretreatments

What is Pretreatment for DTG Printing?

Pretreatment for Direct-to-Garment (DTG) printing is a preparatory step where a special liquid is applied to the garment before printing. This step is crucial to ensure that the ink adheres properly to the fabric, resulting in vibrant colors and sharp details.

Why is Pretreatment Important?

1. Ink Adhesion: Pretreatment ensures that the water-based inks used in DTG printing adhere properly to the garment fibers.
2. Color Vibrancy: It enhances the brightness and vibrancy of the printed colors.
3. Durability: Pretreated garments typically have longer-lasting prints, as the pretreatment helps the ink withstand washing and wear.
4. Sharpness: It improves the sharpness and detail of the printed design.

How Does Pretreatment Work?

1. Application: Pretreatment liquid is applied to the area of the garment where the design will be printed. This can be done using a spray gun, pretreatment machine, or by hand.
2. Drying: The treated garment is then dried using a heat press or conveyor dryer to cure the pretreatment and prepare the surface for printing.
3. Printing: Once the garment is pretreated and dried, it is ready for the DTG printer. The printer applies the design, and the pretreatment ensures proper ink absorption and adherence.

Common Issues and How to Fix Them

1. Uneven Pretreatment Application:

   • Issue: Causes inconsistent print quality.
   • Fix: Use a pretreatment machine for even application or ensure consistent manual application techniques.

2. Stains or Marks on Garments:

   • Issue: Residual pretreatment liquid can leave marks.
   • Fix: Adjust the amount of pretreatment used and ensure proper drying times and temperatures.

3. Poor Ink Adhesion:

   • Issue: Ink does not adhere well, leading to faded prints.
   • Fix: Ensure the garment is properly pretreated and dried before printing.

4. Fibrillation (Fuzziness) in Prints:

   • Issue: Fibers in the garment cause a fuzzy appearance in the print.
   • Fix: Use a higher quality garment and ensure proper pretreatment and curing.

Best Practices

1. Consistent Application: Use a pretreatment machine or a consistent manual technique for even application.
2. Proper Drying: Ensure garments are thoroughly dried and cured after pretreatment.
3. Correct Amount: Use the right amount of pretreatment liquid for the specific fabric and print requirements.
4. Regular Maintenance: Keep your pretreatment equipment clean and well-maintained to ensure optimal performance.
5. Testing: Test different pretreatment amounts and drying times to find the best combination for your specific garments and designs.

Common Mistakes

1. Overuse of Pretreatment: Applying too much pretreatment can cause staining and stiffness in the garment.
2. Underuse of Pretreatment: Applying too little can lead to poor ink adhesion and faded prints.
3. Improper Drying: Not drying the garment properly can cause issues with ink adherence and print quality.
4. Skipping Pretreatment: Some may skip pretreatment altogether, which can lead to poor print quality and durability.

By following these guidelines and best practices, you can achieve high-quality, durable prints with DTG printing. Proper pretreatment is essential to ensure the best possible results.  You can buy Image Armor, Firebird, Kodak and our own Polyester Pretreatment for the best price from us online or call in your order at 631-858-0114.  Local pickup in long island, Suffolk and Nassau county, Queens, Brooklyn, Bronx and NYC Manhattan, including NJ, CT, NY and PA.