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FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Artwork & File Setup
What file types do you accept for printing?

We recommend using PNG, TIFF, or PSD files with transparent backgrounds for best results.

Avoid low-resolution JPG files, as compression can reduce print quality.

Can I use JPG files for printing?

Yes, but only if they are high resolution. JPG compression can reduce sharpness and cause artifacts in prints.

Do I need a transparent background?

Yes. Transparent backgrounds are required for proper DTF printing. Otherwise, a solid box may print behind your design.

What resolution should my artwork be?

Artwork should be 300 DPI at final print size for best results.

Can I scale up a small image?

No. Scaling up low-resolution images will result in blurry or pixelated prints.

What happens if my artwork is low resolution?

Your print will appear blurry, soft, or pixelated. Always use high-quality source files.

Should I use RGB or CMYK?

Most DTF workflows use RGB. Always follow your RIP software recommendations.

Why do colors look different from my screen?

Screen colors and printed colors differ due to calibration, profiles, and material differences.

Print Quality & Output
Why do my prints look dull or faded?

This is usually caused by incorrect color settings, low-quality artwork, or improper curing.

What causes banding in prints?

Clogged nozzles, incorrect settings, or alignment issues.

How do I fix banding?

Run a nozzle check, clean the printhead, and verify alignment settings.

Why are there lines in my prints?

This is typically caused by clogged nozzles or incorrect print settings.

Why is my white ink not printing properly?

This is typically caused by white ink separation, clogs, or improper circulation.

Ensure white ink is being stirred or circulated regularly and run a nozzle check to confirm proper output.

Why is my white ink weak or translucent?

Weak white ink is often due to low density settings, poor artwork preparation, or improper curing.

Check your RIP settings and ensure your white layer is properly configured.

Why does my print look grainy or noisy?

This can be caused by low-quality artwork, incorrect RIP settings, or resolution mismatches.

Use high-resolution files and verify your print profile.

Why is my print misaligned or offset?

Misalignment is typically due to calibration issues or incorrect media settings.

Run alignment procedures and verify your print settings.

Why is my white ink settling or separating in the lines?

White ink is heavier than CMYK and naturally settles over time. If not circulated properly, it can cause inconsistent output or clogs.

Ensure your white ink circulation system is functioning and manually agitate cartridges if needed.

Why is my print oversaturated or bleeding on film?

This is usually caused by excessive ink limits in your RIP profile or incorrect pass settings.

Reduce ink density and verify your print profile is calibrated for your film and environment.

Why are my edges not sharp or slightly blurry?

Blurry edges can result from low-resolution artwork, incorrect RIP settings, or excessive ink spread.

Check resolution, adjust ink limits, and ensure proper curing.

Why am I getting inconsistent results between prints?

Inconsistency is often caused by environmental changes, unstable ink flow, or inconsistent curing.

Maintain stable temperature and humidity and keep workflow settings consistent.

Why is my white ink misaligned with color layers?

This is typically a bidirectional alignment or calibration issue.

Run alignment procedures in your RIP software and verify mechanical calibration.

Transfer, Adhesion & Curing
What is the correct curing temperature and time?
  • Temperature: 220–250°F
  • Time: 2–5 minutes
What happens if I under-cure my prints?

Under-cured prints may not adhere properly and can peel or crack.

What happens if I over-cure my prints?

Over-curing can damage the print, reduce flexibility, and affect durability.

Why is my print not sticking to the garment?

This is usually due to improper curing or incorrect heat press settings.

How long should I press my transfer?

Follow your material guidelines, but typically 10–15 seconds with proper pressure.

Why is my print cracking after pressing?

Cracking is usually caused by under-curing, incorrect press settings, or over-stretching the garment.

Verify curing temperature and ensure proper pressure during transfer.

Why is my print peeling after washing?

This is typically due to under-curing or insufficient adhesive bonding.

Make sure powder is evenly applied and fully cured before pressing.

Why is my adhesive powder not sticking evenly?

This is usually caused by uneven ink coverage or improper powder application.

Ensure consistent ink laydown and evenly distribute powder before curing.

Why does my print look good on film but bad after pressing?

This is usually caused by incorrect curing or pressing parameters.

Verify curing is complete and ensure proper pressure, temperature, and press time.

Why is my print stretching or distorting after transfer?

Distortion can occur from excessive heat, pressure, or garment movement during pressing.

Ensure proper press technique and avoid shifting during transfer.

Maintenance & Nozzle Checks
How do I prevent ink clogging?

Perform daily maintenance, run nozzle checks, and keep the printer active.

How often should I clean my printer?

Light maintenance should be done daily. Deep cleaning depends on usage.

What causes printhead clogs?

Idle time, poor environment conditions, or improper maintenance.

What is a nozzle test?

A nozzle test, also called a nozzle check, is a diagnostic print used to verify that all printhead nozzles are firing correctly.

It prints a small pattern made up of lines or grids for each color. By examining this pattern, you can quickly identify if any nozzles are clogged, misfiring, or not printing at all.

What does a good nozzle test look like?

A good nozzle test will show solid, continuous lines for every color with no gaps or breaks.

Good nozzle test:

----------
----------
----------
----------

All lines are complete, evenly spaced, and consistent across every color channel.

Bad nozzle test (clogged nozzles):

-- -- ----
----  ----
--  --  --
---  -----

Gaps, broken lines, or uneven patterns indicate clogged or misfiring nozzles.

If your test looks like the bad example, run a cleaning cycle and repeat the test until all lines are solid.

Why am I seeing ink buildup or residue on the printhead?

This can be caused by overspray, improper maintenance, or environmental dust.

Regularly clean around the printhead and maintain a clean printing environment.

Hardware, Film & Communication
Why is my printer not communicating with my software?

Check cables, ports, drivers, and restart both printer and RIP software.

What is a COM port issue?

A COM port mismatch prevents your computer from communicating with the printer.

Why is my film jamming or feeding incorrectly?

Film feeding issues can be caused by improper alignment, static buildup, or worn rollers.

Ensure the film is loaded straight and check roller tension.

Why is my ink smearing on the film?

Smearing is usually caused by too much ink, incorrect print settings, or environmental conditions.

Lower ink density and ensure proper humidity levels.

Why is my printhead hitting the film?

This can be caused by warped film, incorrect head height, or debris on the platen.

Check media flatness and adjust head height if necessary.

Why is my film curling or warping during printing?

Film distortion is often caused by heat exposure, humidity imbalance, or poor film quality.

Store film properly and maintain stable environmental conditions.

Environment
Does temperature affect printing?

Yes. Extreme temperatures can affect ink flow and curing performance.

Does humidity affect printing?

Yes. Low humidity can increase clogging, while high humidity can affect curing.

Why does my print look different on different garments?

Fabric type, color, and texture all affect final print appearance.

Adjust press settings and expectations based on garment material.