DTF printing uses CMYK + White, with advanced models adding extra colors for more vibrant and accurate prints. Learn tips and details.
One thing is for sure, DTF printing really picked up its pace within the custom apparel and decoration space, due to its versatility and brilliant colors. However, for the best possible results in this case, it will be very important to know the processes of color, potential challenges, and how output could be optimized. In this article, we'll cover how many colors are commonly used in DTF printing, the advantages of an extended color gamut, and tips for getting the most accurate colors in your prints.
How Many Colors Are Used in DTF Printing?
The basic color model used in DTF printing is CMYK, which is kind of standard for most of the printing processes. White color comes on top of that during the process of DTF printing, used as a base layer in most cases, usually when printing on dark fabrics or substrates. Five basic colors: Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Black, and White.
Some of these advanced DTF printers, especially pro models such as the pro color DTF printer, may be compatible with extra colors, including Orange, Green, Red, Blue, among others. Extra features are capable of extending the color coverage limits, which in turn produce more lifelike and vivid printing conditions when, for example, detail and brand-specific colors or detailed images are used.
The Advantages of a Broader Color Range in DTF Printing
Now, if color gamut in DTF printing is expanded in comparison to standard CMYK and White, adding Orange, Green, Red, and Blue will allow gaining a number of benefits:
- Color Accuracy: This is easier with more colors that can be more shades accurately matched. This is important in brand logos or intricated artwork.
- More vibrancy: The more colors you have, the more vivid the print will be. This really makes a design pop out from a substrate.
- Better Gradients: This would provide an expanded color gamut, supporting smoother and more fluid gradients and color transitions and reducing the banding or abrupt lines on your prints.
- Better Print Quality: The more the number of colors, the more the quality of the print is embedded into it, making the outputs richer and detailed.
How to Achieve the Most Accurate Colors in DTF Printing
Knowing how to get the most accurate colors out of your DTF printing isn't always easy, especially in case issues like your DTF printer not printing color correctly or the DTF printer printing wrong colors arise. Here are some tips on how to get the best possible results:
- Regular Calibration: Be sure to have your DTF color printer calibrated frequently. This will ensure that you get accurate and uniform color; hence, there will be no production with the wrong color.
- Only High-Quality Inks: The inks used in DTF printing are the most important factor that can drastically change the output quality. Consider only those high-quality inks that work perfectly with your printer in getting bright, vivid, and accurate colors.
- Color Management Software: This can be helpful in doing the needful changes required in colors prior to printing. This software will enable you to view a preview of what colors will look on the final product, minimising the potential for error.
- Test Prints: It is always good to take test prints in advance of running a longer production so that, in the high probability of color issues, they may be detected and corrected.
The Importance of Adjusting Colors Based on Surface Color
Color on the surface drastically alters the final outlook of the design. Printing on a dark surface without a white underbase results in muting of the colors, while printing on light surfaces without an appropriate adjustment could result in overly bright or washed-out colors. Here is why you need to adjust colors according to this surface:
- Adequate contrast of the colors with surface color presents a condition that is necessary for both readability and appeal.
- Through proper adjustments, the colors which are being printed are right along with the design, whatever the coloring of the surface might be.
- Not only does the adjustment of color with respect to a surface enhance the color of the print, but it may also affect the durability of the print. Correct colors are less likely to fade or wear upon time.
DTF printing offers a wide range of colors, and with advanced printers, the number of colors can be further increased to give brighter and more realistic-looking results. Being able to have knowledge of these colors and how they work, particularly with reference to the material you are going to print on, may be a huge factor in the success or failure of your prints. Whether it is a DTF printer that doesn't print color, or it's about how to fully express the potential of a Pro color DTF printer, the following points will be very helpful in bringing out the best in your projects.
If you're looking for flawless, vibrant colors and want to achieve the perfect effect on your materials without any color issues, reach out to the Direct to Film experts at Sumotransfers. Whether you need DTF or UV DTF services, for individual pieces or bulk orders, we are ready to assist you.
