What to Know When Buying a DTG (or Any) Printer - Apparelist

So, you’ve decided to buy or add a new direct-to-garment (DTG) printer to your business. Before you settle on a particular piece of equipment, there are a few questions to ask, and a few things you should really know before making that purchase. While the following speaks to DTG, many of these factors are important to consider when purchasing any type of manufactured equipment.

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The First, Most Important Question

Does the manufacturer of the machine you’re leaning toward make the product they sell? Print heads and ink are the basic and most important parts of a DTG printer. But some of the machines on the market have these components from another source, most commonly a desktop paper printer.

A manufacturer making its own print heads and ink ensures that you as a customer will be able to receive replacement parts, if needed, and a continual supply of ink. Buying a printer from a company that does not make its own component parts means you take a risk on whether the original manufacturer continues the supply chain.

Where to Buy

Most large DTG manufacturers sell their product through a network of dealers. This ensures there will be sales coverage in most regions of the country. Not all dealers are the same. Some have a great deal of expertise in the DTG process while others do not.

Selling DTG printers is unlike most other decoration equipment. More upfront instruction and support is necessary to be successful. In some cases, because of their range of product focus, a local dealer may not have the expertise to really give you the knowledge that you need to be successful in DTG.

The question to ask the dealer you choose is not how many printers they have sold, but how many they have installed, and how many customers they have trained.

Training is key to being successful. When choosing a printer, make sure the dealer will fully train you in the DTG process.

Training should cover maintenance, the pre-treating process, and proper preparation of graphics. Ask who will train you and find out how many customers they have trained along with their background in the decorated garment industry. Nothing beats on-site training at your location. This ensures that you know how the DTG equipment works in your situation.

Classroom and video training work, too, but those are better for additional training beyond the basics. During the training process, use your own print files and shirts, as this will give you the most real-world experience.

Product Safety and Durability

Material safety is crucial. This is something most shops don’t think about when looking at DTG printers. The fact that a product is water-based does not automatically make it safe, and not every manufacturer’s DTG ink and pre-treatment are the same. You need to ensure that the ink and pre-treat solution are safe for both your employees and your customers. All manufacturers should provide a safety data sheet (SDS) on their products when requested.

Please read the SDS of any products used in the production process. Understand any limitations or changes you might have to make to your shop’s environment or in your work process. Make sure SDS sheets concerning any hazardous products are readily available to your employees. It’s the law.

Many DTG manufactures use a third-party company to test their inks and pretreat fluid. The most prevalent in the industry is Oeko-tex. This certification ensures safe levels or no content of certain harmful products in finished goods, and tests for certain substances listed in the U.S. Government’s Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA).

Don’t confuse SDS and Oeko-tex. The SDS is provided to inform you about the safety of products, or chemicals, used during the production process. Oeko-tex certifies a product’s levels of certain harmful substances usually after the production process.

Some DTG manufacturers also test for the wash durability of their printed product. Most use an independent test certified by the American Association of Textile Colorists and Chemists (AATCC). This test takes a printed DTG sample shirt and subjects it to a high-intensity wash. After the wash test, the sample is compared to an unwashed sample and given a ranking between one and five — the higher the rank, the better it held up in the wash. Ask if the DTG printer you are looking at has undergone this wash test and inquire about its ranking.

Read the Warranty

In my opinion, the warranty is the most important thing to know and understand when buying a printer. Many of us never read it until a problem arises. One should read and understand the warranty before buying any equipment.

DTG printers are mechanical and electrical machines with many moving parts, and like all machines, could possibly have a breakdown that requires a technician to repair. Is the warranty on-site or return to factory? Having a technician visit your business to repair the machine is always best. Does the warranty state how long before the repair will take place?

How long are the print head and other electronics under warranty? They are usually the most expensive parts of the printer and should have the longest warranty. Does the company you are buying from offer an extended warranty or service contract? If so, how long can it be extended? Read all of the fine print, and if the warranty is not clear or certain things are not specified, ask for it in writing.

Know Your Maintenance Needs

The most controversial subject in DTG is maintenance. Because of the chemical composition of white ink, some type of maintenance is always required. Over the years the required amount of maintenance has been greatly reduced, but not totally eliminated. Not all printers approach the maintenance procedures the same.

Ask for the DTG printer’s manual and read it. Have the maintenance process — especially its costs — fully explained. If it differs from the manual, ask for further explanation. Many manufacturers have videos available that explain the process and the steps needed to complete your maintenance.

Print Samples from Your Own Files

When you ask to see a sample print, every self-respecting DTG seller is going to print the very best image file on the most ideal shirt that shows the brightest, most crisp design. But before you buy, have samples printed using your own files. You need to know if your art file needs special treatment or if the printer is capable of producing the colors you need.

If you can attend a trade show or get a private demo with a DTG equipment dealer, this is best. If not, a live video session also works well. The main priority is your need to see how many, if any, changes are needed to make sure your file prints correctly. A qualified DTG dealer should be able to help you not only produce a perfect print but produce the perfect art file for DTG production as well.

There are many more questions to ask, but this captures some of the essential things you need to know. Once you have done your research and have the answers, this knowledge should make your buying choice much easier.

Direct-to-garment (DTG) printing has revolutionized the apparel industry by producing vibrant, detailed designs effortlessly. Understanding the type of ink used is crucial for achieving high-quality results. This comprehensive guide explores the various inks employed in DTG printing, their components, and how to choose the best one for your needs.

Understanding DTG Printing

DTG printing is a modern method for printing intricate designs directly onto garments. This technique has gained popularity due to its efficiency and quality.

What is DTG (Direct-to-Garment) Printing?

DTG printing involves using specialized inkjet technology to apply designs directly onto fabric. Unlike traditional screen printing, it allows for full-color images with fine details, making it ideal for complex artwork. This method utilizes a DTG printer ink to penetrate the garment's fibers, ensuring a soft feel and vibrant appearance. The streamlined process reduces setup time and makes it perfect for on-demand printing and custom orders.

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How DTG Printing Differs from Other Printing Methods

While methods like screen printing require separate screens for each color, DTG printing uses a single pass to create multi-colored designs. This approach makes it more versatile and cost-effective for small batches and customized orders. DTG printing offers greater flexibility in design complexity and color variations, allowing for highly personalized products without the additional costs associated with traditional methods.

The Role of Ink in DTG Printing

Ink plays a pivotal role in the success of DTG printing, impacting the final product's appearance and durability. The correct ink ensures that designs are visually appealing, long-lasting, and resistant to fading.

Why Ink Quality Matters in DTG Printing

High-quality ink ensures that colors are vibrant and long-lasting. Poor-quality ink can lead to faded prints and reduced garment lifespan, making ink selection essential for professional results. Quality inks also contribute to smoother application and better adhesion to the fabric, minimizing issues like bleeding or cracking over time. Using superior ink can significantly enhance your printed garments' look and feel.

Critical Properties of DTG-Specific Inks

DTG-specific inks bond with fabric fibers, ensuring durability and washability. They must possess a high color gamut, good opacity, and compatibility with various fabrics. These inks should have the correct viscosity and surface tension to work seamlessly with DTG printers, ensuring precise application and preventing clogging or uneven distribution. The balance of these properties is crucial for achieving consistent and high-quality prints.

Types of Ink Used in DTG Printing

Several types of ink are available for DTG printing, each with unique advantages and applications. Understanding these options allows printers to choose the best ink for their specific needs and desired outcomes.

Water-Based Pigment Inks: The Standard Choice

Water-based pigment inks are the most commonly used in DTG printing. They offer excellent color vibrancy and are suitable for many fabrics, making them the go-to choice for many printers. These inks are known for producing soft prints that blend seamlessly with the fabric, providing a comfortable feel. Water-based inks are easy to work with and generally more affordable, making them a practical option for beginners and seasoned professionals.

Eco-Friendly DTG Inks: A Sustainable Alternative

For those seeking environmentally friendly options, eco-friendly DTG inks are a sustainable alternative. These inks reduce environmental impact without compromising print quality, catering to the growing demand for green products. They are typically formulated with fewer harmful chemicals and may use natural or renewable resources, making them safer for both the environment and the end-users. By choosing eco-friendly inks, businesses can appeal to environmentally conscious consumers and promote sustainable practices within the industry.

Specialty DTG Inks for Dark Garments

Printing on dark garments requires specialized inks that provide opacity and maintain color integrity. These specialty inks ensure that designs stand out vividly against darker fabrics. They often include white ink as a base layer to enhance brightness and prevent colors from appearing dull or muted. These inks adhere well to dark fibers, ensuring the prints remain vibrant and durable even after multiple washes. Specialty inks expand the versatility of DTG printing, allowing for high-quality prints on a broader range of garment colors.

Components of DTG Ink

Understanding the components of DTG ink helps you select the right type for your printing needs. Each element plays a specific role in the performance and quality of the ink, contributing to the overall effectiveness of the printing process.

Pigments for Vibrant Colors

Pigments are responsible for the color intensity in DTG inks. High-quality pigments ensure that prints are bright and maintain their vibrancy over time. These finely ground particle pigments provide rich, saturated colors, allowing for detailed and dynamic designs. The choice of pigments also affects the color gamut, enabling a wide range of hues and shades to be reproduced accurately. Ensuring premium pigments is essential for achieving high-quality, long-lasting prints.

Binders for Adhesion and Durability

Binders help the ink adhere to the fabric fibers, ensuring the print remains durable through multiple washes and wear. They act as a glue, binding the pigment particles to the garment and enhancing the overall longevity of the print. High-quality binders prevent the ink from cracking, peeling, or fading, maintaining the integrity of the design over time. Effective binders also contribute to the softness of the print, ensuring that the garment remains comfortable to wear without a stiff or heavy feel.

Additives for Smooth Application

Additives improve the ink's flow and prevent issues like clogging. They also ensure a smooth application process and enhance the overall print quality. These additives can include surfactants, which reduce surface tension and help the ink spread evenly across the fabric, and preservatives, which extend the shelf life of the ink by preventing microbial growth. Anti-foaming agents may be used to eliminate bubbles that can disrupt the printing process, ensuring consistent and flawless prints every time.

Advantages of Using DTG Inks

DTG inks offer numerous benefits, making them a preferred choice for garment printing. Their unique properties provide significant advantages in print quality, versatility, and sustainability.

Bright and Durable Prints

DTG inks produce bright, vivid colors that resist fading, ensuring that the prints remain eye-catching and durable over time. The superior color vibrancy achieved with DTG inks allows designs to stand out, making them ideal for intricate and colorful artwork. The durability of these inks means that garments maintain their appearance even after repeated washing and wearing, providing long-lasting value for printers and customers.

Compatibility with a Wide Range of Fabrics

DTG inks are versatile and can be used on various fabrics, including cotton, blends, and some synthetics, providing flexibility in garment choices. This compatibility allows printers to offer a broader range of products without needing multiple types of ink for different materials. Whether soft cotton tees, polyester blends, or other fabric types, DTG inks adapt to different fibers, ensuring consistent and high-quality results across various garment types.

Environmentally Friendly Printing Solutions

Many DTG inks are eco-friendly, reducing the printing process's environmental footprint and appealing to eco-conscious consumers. These inks often contain fewer harmful chemicals and utilize sustainable ingredients, making them safer for the environment and those handling the inks. By choosing environmentally friendly DTG inks, businesses can support sustainable practices and meet the growing demand for green products, enhancing their reputation and attracting a broader customer base.

Choosing the Right DTG Ink for Your Needs

Selecting the appropriate DTG ink involves considering several factors to ensure optimal results. Making the right choice can significantly impact your printing projects' quality, durability, and success.

Understanding Printer Compatibility

Different DTG printers may require specific types of ink. Ensuring compatibility between the ink and your DTG printers is crucial for achieving the best print quality. Compatibility issues can lead to problems such as clogging, poor adhesion, or inconsistent color reproduction. It's essential to consult your printer's specifications and recommendations to select inks that work seamlessly with your equipment. This approach ensures smooth operation and minimizes the risk of technical issues during the printing process.

Balancing Cost and Print Quality

While high-quality inks may come at a higher cost, they often provide better results and longevity. Balancing your budget with the desired print quality is essential for sustainable operations. Investing in premium inks can lead to higher customer satisfaction and fewer reprints, ultimately saving money in the long run. However, it's also essential to consider the initial cost and find a balance that aligns with your business goals and financial constraints. Evaluating the cost-effectiveness of different ink options can help you make informed decisions that benefit both your bottom line and the quality of your products.

Ink Certification and Standards

Choosing inks that meet industry standards and certifications ensures safety and quality. Certified inks guarantee they adhere to specific guidelines, providing peace of mind for printers and customers. Certifications may include compliance with environmental regulations, safety standards, and quality benchmarks. Selecting certified inks helps ensure that your prints are high-quality and produced responsibly and compliantly. Doing this can enhance your reputation and build customer trust, prioritizing quality and sustainability.

Caring for DTG Printing Inks

Proper care and maintenance of DTG inks extend their lifespan and ensure consistent print quality. Taking the appropriate steps to care for your inks can prevent common issues and maintain the efficiency of your printing operations.

Proper Storage to Extend Shelf Life

Storing DTG inks in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight helps maintain their quality and prevents premature drying or degradation. Exposure to heat and light can cause inks to thicken, separate, or lose their vibrancy, leading to subpar print results. Keeping ink containers sealed is essential to prevent contamination and moisture ingress. Proper storage conditions preserve the ink's integrity and extend its usability, reducing waste and ensuring that your inks are ready for use when needed.

Maintenance Tips to Prevent Clogging

Regular printer head maintenance is essential to prevent clogging and ensure smooth ink flow. Cleaning the printer head after each use can significantly reduce downtime and maintain print quality. Performing routine maintenance checks, such as inspecting nozzles and ensuring proper alignment, can help identify and address potential issues before they escalate. Using the appropriate cleaning solutions and following manufacturer guidelines for maintenance can further enhance the longevity and performance of your DTG printer, ensuring consistent and reliable printing results.

Conclusion

Choosing the correct ink is fundamental to the success of DTG printing. By understanding the types of inks available, their components, and how to care for them, you can achieve vibrant, durable prints that meet your customers' expectations. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting, selecting the appropriate DTG ink will elevate your printing projects and ensure lasting quality.

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