Recommendations: About DTF Inks

Every step matters when you’re just starting to work with DTF or wanting to improve your DIY skills. This includes learning how to choose, manage and use DTF Inks for your machine and your prints. When you work, you never want to deliver results less than outstanding. 

What not a lot of people tell you is that most of the DTF process differs by personal preferences. You will hear someone is using this and that, but when you try it, it actually doesn’t work for you. You must find whatever suits your technique, your time, and your budget better. From the piece of clothing you’re going to customize to the amount of force you will use to press your transfers… It’s all about personal choices! You will learn from what you know and hear it’s best, but in the end, you will start making your own decisions along the way. 

Regarding DTF, one thing to consider is the ink. Because the process of working with this technique involves special inks that can endure the heat and have high levels of solvents and pigments. This allows the ink to transfer perfectly to the garment with all its tones and details. 

One must deliberate over 3 things when it comes to choosing an ink: 

1. Finish (Matte or glossy): You should always pick matte finishes due to its elegant results and less irregularities. 

1. Viscosity: Your ink can vary between viscous and gooey. You must check all its variations to choose one ink.
2. Compatibility: Apart from the ink, this must be compatible with the machines you’re using. It has to be considered when trying a new product so make sure to check its labels beforehand. 

But how can you decide on which ink you should use? We have a few recommendations:

Get your product from your direct distributor. If that person is selling you the DTF machine or the materials, try whichever ink they’re selling. Most of the time, all distributors get all of the items from the same source, so it works efficiently among them. 

Make sure to check the expiration date of each bottle of ink. An out-of-date ink will affect your prints, such as variations of colors and tones, or less durability. 

Set up the correct ICC profile for your DTF prints. You can check various examples of this online or ask your distributor directly. A right set up between your profile, your machine and your inks will give you the results you’re expecting. 

Look out for online reviews about distributors and make sure to listen to recommendations when you decide on changing your supplier. 

Lastly, how can you identify a high-quality DTF ink? 

1. Your print doesn’t crack while already set upon your item. 
2. It lasts more than 50 washings. 
3. Prints must be flexible while stretching the clothing garment. 

In the end, you will start getting an idea on what to use and what not by trial and error. We hope this gives you a better idea on your process. In case you need more information, make sure to send us a DM on Instagram: @printprodtf. Go visit our blog for extra DTF tips and check every Monday for a new entry!