Working With Faded Edges

When creating your designs for DTF transfers, one of the biggest issues you need to be mindful of is faded edges or transparent areas. The reason for this is that after the image is printed from an inkjet printer, an adhesive powder is applied to the ink, which helps the transfer stick to the fabric. As a result, with DTF transfers the ink droplets or tiny spots used to produce faded edges and transparent areas are too small, so the powder doesn’t have enough surface to cling to. They may, therefore, not adhere properly or could peel over time, leaving rough, splotchy areas. To prevent this, there are a few different options you can utilize when creating your art from scratch or adjusting a design you may already have to make it work.

The easiest way to avoid faded edges is to create a path around the edge of the main element with the pen tool (see below) and delete the unwanted faded areas. Image courtesy of Dane Clement

Hard Edges – The simplest way to avoid printing faded edges is to create a solid image with a clean, hard outer edge. If you already have a design that has a faded edge, you can easily fix this by using a selection tool like the pen tool. Create a path around the edge of the main element or area that you want to keep with the pen tool, then make a selection of the path, invert the selection and delete the unwanted faded areas. Now you can use the image in a layout with no worries.

Using Shapes – Another handy trick to avoid faded edges is to place your image inside a shape with a clean, hard edge. You can use basic shapes like circles or rectangles, but try thinking outside the box as well. Try pasting the image inside of text or create unique freeform shapes using the pen tool or any other tools like a hard-edge paint brush. Create a shape that complements your image or layout idea. For example, if you are creating an image for a swim team or a fishing design or something with a water-related theme, make a giant splash shape. It will create a much more intriguing, eye-catching design.

Large Halftone Dots – Among the advantages of DTF transfers is the ability to print small details. It is this advantage that provides the next option for dealing with faded edges to work. In fact, the use of large halftone dots has become very popular with DTF transfers, as it allows you to keep the integrity of the design instead of needing to eliminate areas and sacrifice the original look.

Once the path has been created, you can make a selection, invert and delete the unwanted faded areas. Image courtesy of Dane Clement

If you have a raster design with faded edges, start by making a selection of the original image. When using Photoshop, you can do this by holding down the Command/Control key and then clicking on the art layer. You should see “marching ants” running around the perimeter of the image denoting the fact it has been selected. Make a new layer and fill the selection with black. Duplicate the file so you have two separate files available. The new file will be used to create the halftone.

In the Menu Bar, go to Mode > Grayscale. Turn off all the layers except the layer with the black faded shape. Go back to the Menu Bar > Mode and select Bitmap, where you will be prompted to flatten your image. In the first window that pops up, make sure the resolution matches the resolution of your image. (I always set up my images at 300 ppi.) Click OK, and in the next window set up the halftone specifications.

For the frequency, the smaller the number the larger the dot. The larger the dot, the more “graphic” the image will look. I recommend a frequency of 20 lpi. For the angle, I use 61 degrees and a dot shape that is either round or ellipse. Round dots will give a more traditional, graphic look to your image, while elliptical dots will look more organic and provide more surface area to adhere to the garment. The look you want the final product to have can help dictate the dot shape you’re ultimately going to want to use.

Once the halftone screen is set, change the mode back to grayscale. Now you need to transfer this halftoned greyscale image to the original layered art file. To do this, click on the tab at the top of the window for the grayscale file and drag it out of the window to separate the files into two separate windows. Now you can go to the channels panel of the grayscale file and drag it to the art file. It will automatically create a new channel in the art file with the halftone in it.

That done, hold down the Command/Control Key, click on the halftone channel and go back to the layers and make a new layer. Fill the selection with a color that will work with your image. It can be black, white, gray, a neutral color or even something that will match the shirt color the image is going to be applied to. The reason for this is you need these dots to be solid to adhere to the shirt. By filling the selection with a color, it acts as a backing color to fill the dot so the halftones will be solid and have enough area for the adhesive powder to stick. Once the color is filled into the selection, make sure the art layer is above the halftone layer. Hold down the Option/Alt key and click between the two layers. The art layer will automatically be pasted inside the halftone layer. Viola! Your original image with the faded edges now has a halftoned edge.

Note that while DTF transfer can hold small details, there remains a limit as to how small you can go. Check your printer for its specifications and then use that measurement to determine what dots may be too small to hold. Erase those that are too small so you are only left with printable dots.

There are two tricks I use to help determine and eliminate dots that are too small. First I make a new layer, and use the Elliptical Marquee Tool to make a round selection at the smallest size recommendation from my printer. Fill the dot with a bright color that will stand out from the image. You can then move the dot around to see what dots need to be removed.

Another quick way to remove several small dots at once is to make a selection of the halftoned artwork. Contract the selection 2 pixels and then expand the selection 2 pixels. Invert the selection and delete. This will automatically delete any dots smaller than 2 pixels. Depending on the size of the dot you can hold, you may need to increase or decrease the amount of pixel contraction and expansion.

You may still need to double check using the small reference dot, but this will help remove a lot of unprintable dots at once so that you’re not wasting time manually checking and erasing.

Although today’s DTF transfers have a lighter feel than in year’s past, it’s still a good practice to include some open spaces in your design where the garment can show through. Image courtesy of Dane Clement

Having a Light Hand

As with any printing method, the more ink you use, the heavier the design will feel on the shirt. While today’s DTF transfers naturally have a lighter feel, it’s still a good idea to design your layouts with some open spaces where ink won’t print and let the garment show through. The less ink you use, the lighter and more comfortable the garment will be.

If you already know the color of the shirt you’ll be using, you can create some cool openings in your design by knocking out that same color from the image. For example, if your design is going on a black shirt, you can use the Color Range Selection tool to pick the black in the design and knock out that part of the design so the black of the shirt shows through. This will reduce the amount of ink being printed giving the transfer a lighter feel. After that, you can use the same technique described previously to apply a halftone screen to the entire layout for a nice finishing touch.

To Print or Not to Print

Now that you’ve got some pointers for creating artwork to make better transfers, how are you going to do the actual printing? As with all production methods there are the options of either doing it yourself or contracting it out. Of course, doing it yourself means the expense of equipment. If you go to a trade show, you’ll see all kinds of DTF equipment available out there, but you really need to do your homework to make sure you understand the ins and outs of what’s involved. The equipment, the ink, the adhesive powder—there’s a lot to consider.

To create some openings in this design, the black portions of the design were knocked out to let the black material of the garment itself show through. Image courtesy of Dane Clement

On the flip side, there are any number of printers out there that you can send your designs to and have your transfers produced. The only equipment you need is a heat press. For those just getting into the business, this might be the best. It gives you a chance to get started with lower out-of-pocket expenses making it easier for you to get off the ground quicker and easier.

If you’ve been in the industry long enough, you know how DTG printing flooded the market in its early years. Everyone had one. Now only those companies that really invested in and took the time to understand the technology remain. Just as DTG boomed, the same might be said for DTF. In time things will likely level out, leaving only those who can afford to maintain and invest in the continued betterment of the process to provide quality transfers. It’s something to consider when trying to decide between doing it yourself or finding a quality supplier who can do it for you.

Just as you need to do your homework when looking into possibly buying equipment, you need to investigate and research the various DTF transfer providers out there. Not all are providers are created equal! You want to go to a trusted business that really knows and understands the product. I suggest sending a design to a few different companies to compare.

Cheapest isn’t always the best. Color quality might be poor. Adhesive may seep out from under the color print leaving an unsightly outline around the printed area. Registration from the colors to the white ink might be out. Some peel hot, while others peel cold, taking longer to get through your job. The transfer might not adhere properly and start to peel. Even ink quality isn’t the same. There are trusted companies that use inks that are certified clean and safe. Others don’t. If you want to grow your business, you need to provide a superior product, and superior products come from trusted, knowledgeable companies. Shop around and talk to others to make sure you’re getting the best product possible.

The DTF race is on, and you don’t want to be left behind. Making sure you create designs properly that work well and then having them produced using quality printers, supplies and products is the way to stay ahead of the crowd!

Dane Clement is president of Great Dane Graphics, as well as vice president of creative for GroupeSTAHL. He has been speaking and writing for the decorated-apparel industry since 1987. He has also authored several artwork-training books for various garment-decoration methods. For more information or to comment on this article, email Dane at dane@greatdanegraphics.com.

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1. Versatility Across Products and Fabrics

One of DTF’s most significant advantages over DTG and Screen Printing is its ability to print on a wider range of fabrics.  DTG printing primarily works well on 100% cotton garments, limiting its application for polyester, blends, leather, and other materials.  Screen printing used to be the only option to fill in on those other materials, but printing was slow, arduous, and risky.   In contrast, DTF printing adheres to almost any fabric type, making it a more versatile option for businesses that need to cater to diverse customer demands.

2. Superior Durability and Washability

When it comes to durability, DTF prints have the upper hand. DTG prints, while vibrant on cotton, tend to fade over time with multiple washes.  Screen printed garments and DTF prints, on the other hand, are known for their exceptional wash resistance. Ninja Transfers’ DTF transfers have proven to last over 100 wash cycles.

3. Cost Efficiency and Scalability

DTG is a rapidly dying print method due to its material limitations and competition with DTF.  For businesses looking to maximize profits, the new killer combo is Screen printing and DTF transfers.  Send the larger orders to be screen printed on garments that are easy to control like cotton and 50/50 blends.  The remainder, even larger orders, can go right to DTF Transfers these days.

4. Why Ninja Transfers DTF Transfers Are the Best Choice

Not all DTF transfers are created equal, and this is where Ninja Transfers stands out from the competition. Their DTF transfers are crafted with industry-leading technology, ensuring superior color vibrancy, stretchability, and durability. Unlike competitors, Ninja Transfers offers:

• Higher-Quality Adhesion – Their transfers adhere seamlessly to fabrics, providing a professional finish that lasts wash after wash.
• Superior Stretch and Flexibility – Ninja Transfers’ DTF prints resist cracking and peeling, making them ideal for activewear and high-movement garments.
• Vibrant, Fade-Resistant Colors – Their advanced ink formulas ensure prints remain bright and detailed over time, even after repeated laundering.
• Fast Turnaround Times – With efficient production processes, Ninja Transfers helps businesses meet tight deadlines without sacrificing quality.
• Eco-Friendly and Non-Toxic Materials – They prioritize sustainability by using environmentally friendly inks and materials, ensuring safe and responsible printing practices.

While Screen Printing and DTG printing have been reliable methods for custom apparel, DTF printing is emerging as the future of 30 to 50% of the industry. With its ability to print on many fabrics, superior durability, lower costs, faster production, and enhanced color vibrancy, DTF is proving to be the go-to choice for print shops and entrepreneurs looking to stay ahead in the competitive custom apparel market.  DTG is becoming the industry dinosaur.  For those seeking the best in DTF technology, Ninja Transfers’ DTF transfers is the top choice for businesses looking to elevate their printing game.  For more information visit NinjaTransfers.com today and take your business to new heights.

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The world of Direct-to-Film (DTF) transfers is evolving at an unprecedented pace, and Ninja Transfers is leading the charge with their groundbreaking Easy Peel Technology. Designed to enhance productivity, accuracy, and efficiency, this innovation is set to revolutionize the way DTF transfers are applied, making it easier than ever to achieve professional results while saving valuable time.

Why is Easy Peel Technology 2x-4x Faster?

Easy Peel Technology is a cutting-edge film developed by Ninja Transfers that allows you to peel hot and slow, rather than hot and fast, increasing accuracy and confidence. Traditional methods often require lightning fast pulling to ensure the transfer is peeled correctly, but this puts that product at risk as you hope for the best and pull. With Easy Peel Technology, customers can peel their transfers smoothly while the material is still hot, eliminating the tedious wait times and more easily releasing the design from the transfer, greatly reducing the risk of errors on all materials.

Double Matte Film Enhances Accuracy and Precision

Accuracy is paramount in the world of DTF transfers, and Ninja Transfers has prioritized this with their film coating technology. Easy Peel Technology is double matted, so it minimizes the risks of misaligned prints, tearing when pulling, or incomplete transfers, providing a clean and professional print every time. This improvement is particularly beneficial for intricate designs and high-detail artwork, where precision is non-negotiable. With Ninja Transfers, you can trust that your final product will consistently meet the highest standards of quality.

Peel Hot and Effortlessly

Gone are the days of waiting for transfers to cool before peeling. Easy Peel Technology allows users to peel their transfers immediately after application while the material is still hot. This feature not only saves time but also ensures a seamless and hassle-free process. By reducing wait time and eliminating the need for cooling dwell times or cooling devices, Ninja Transfers helps businesses maximize productivity and achieve faster production times. Also with their new Silicone upper platen protector, you no longer have to worry about the additional time and movements required with taking parchment paper on and off in between presses. Leave the Silicon upper platen protector magnetized to your press at all times.

Boost Productivity with the Next Evolution in DTF Transfers

Ninja Transfers’ Easy Peel Technology is more than just an innovation—it’s a game-changer for the DTF industry. By addressing common pain points and introducing a faster, more accurate method for applying transfers, this technology empowers businesses to work smarter, not harder. From hobbyists to large-scale production facilities, anyone using DTF transfers can benefit from the improved efficiency and quality that Easy Peel Technology offers.
Ninja Transfers has a proven track record of delivering top-quality products and solutions for the DTF industry. Their commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction sets them apart as a leader in the field. With Easy Peel Technology, they continue to uphold their reputation for excellence, offering a product that is not only reliable but also transformative.

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Designed for unmatched precision and efficiency, the TXF300-1600 sets a new standard for direct-to-film (DTF) and textile printing, catering to a growing market of high-volume garment decorators, custom apparel creators, and print professionals.

This cutting-edge DTF printer combines Mimaki’s renowned innovation with advanced features, including a wider 63-inch media width, and ink circulation technology that prevents white ink sedimentation. Backed by 50 years of Mimaki Engineering expertise, the TXF300-1600 delivers consistent, vibrant prints on a wide range of materials while supporting skin-friendly textiles with OEKO-TEX® ECO PASSPORT-certified inks.

“The Mimaki TXF300-1600 represents a leap forward in DTF printing technology,” says Mark Gardner, Marketing Manager at Hirsch Solutions LLC. “It delivers faster production capabilities without compromising on quality. We’re thrilled to add this innovative machine to our product lineup, providing customers with the tools they need to expand their businesses and achieve remarkable results.”

Key features of the DTF Mimaki TXF300-1600 include:

Enhanced Productivity: A broader media width of 63 inches for efficient handling of large-scale projects.

Improved Workflow: Advanced ink circulation technology minimizes white ink sedimentation, ensuring smooth and uninterrupted operation.

Trusted Performance: Built on Mimaki’s 50 years of innovation, the TXF300-1600 delivers consistent, high-quality results.

Eco-Friendly Printing: Mimaki PHT50 inks are certified OEKO-TEX® ECO PASSPORT, allowing for the creation of skin-friendly textiles.

Optimized Drying: A three-way intelligent heater speeds up ink drying, improving output consistency and overall efficiency.

Hirsch Solutions also provides a complete range of Mimaki DTF inks and Hirsch Premium consumables, including Hot Peel Film and Powder, engineered to work seamlessly with the TXF300-1600. This comprehensive offering ensures customers have everything they need for a reliable and efficient DTF printing solution.

“The addition of the Mimaki TXF300-1600 aligns with our mission to empower businesses with the best tools in the industry,” Gardner says. “With this printer, we’re giving our customers the ability to take their creativity and production capabilities to the next level.”

The Mimaki TXF300-1600 and supporting consumables are now available through Hirsch Solutions. Customers can learn more by visiting www.hsi.us/mimaki or contacting the company directly.

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The Prestige XL2 Pro Printer. Image courtesy of Lawson Screen & Digital

Saint Louis—Lawson Screen & Digital recently launched its cutting-edge Prestige XL2 Pro Direct-to-Film (DTF) Printer Bundle, which includes the Prestige XL2 Pro DTF Printer and the Miro 24-inch DTF Powder Shaker and Dryer.

This innovative combination delivers a game-changing solution for print shops looking to elevate their DTF printing capabilities with unmatched color accuracy, efficiency, and ease of use, according to the company.

“We’re thrilled to introduce the Prestige XL2 Pro DTF Printer Bundle, which represents the next level in DTF printing technology,” says Taylor Landesman, Vice President of Lawson Screen & Digital Products. “It’s an ideal choice for businesses looking to increase their creative potential and output.”

At the heart of this bundle is the Prestige XL2 Pro DTF Printer, a state-of-the-art 24-inch direct-to-film printer engineered for professionals who demand superior performance. Featuring an advanced 8-color printing system (CMYK + Red, Green, Orange, and Blue), the Prestige XL2 Pro offers an expanded color gamut, producing vibrant, lifelike prints that surpass the capabilities of standard DTF printers. Its generous 24-inch width accommodates large, intricate designs, making it ideal for producing custom apparel, textiles, and other personalized items with precision and clarity.

The Miro 24-inch DTF Powder Shaker and Dryer. Image courtesy of Lawson Screen & Digital

Paired with the Prestige XL2 Pro, the Miro 24-inch DTF Powder Shaker and Dryer is engineered for maximum efficiency and convenience. This compact yet robust machine ensures a clean, organized workspace with its built-in air purifier, creating a safer working environment. Its precise scale marks allow for fast and accurate film alignment, while the curved heating platen provides clear results.

Together, the Prestige XL2 Pro DTF Printer and Miro 24-inch DTF Powder Shaker and Dryer can offer an ideal solution for print shops looking to boost creativity, efficiency, and print quality.

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