Pro Tips for Softer, Smoother DTF Prints on Dark Shirts

Tip 1: Using Halftones for a Softer Print
One of the coolest tricks for printing on black shirts is to use halftones. Halftoning breaks your design into tiny dots, reducing ink coverage and giving a lighter, more flexible print. In Photoshop, convert your design to grayscale and apply a halftone filter. This not only creates a cool effect but also makes your prints softer.

Tip 2: Adding Jersey-Style Patterns
Another great way to keep your prints soft is to add a subtle pattern, like jersey-style holes or a mesh effect. This reduces solid ink coverage and makes the final print more breathable. It’s especially great for sports designs and gives your prints a unique, comfortable feel.

Tip 3: Pre-Pressing and Proper Curing for Softer Results

One more key tip that often gets overlooked is the importance of pre-pressing your garment and making sure you cure the print properly. Before you even apply the DTF transfer, give your shirt a quick pre-press with your heat press. This helps remove any moisture and wrinkles, giving you a smoother surface to work with. It also helps the transfer adhere more evenly, which can make the final print feel

Tip 4: Using MagicSeal for Extra Softness and Durability
For an extra professional touch, you can use a product like MagicSeal, which we use in-house for our finishing press. After you’ve applied your DTF transfer, you can use MagicSeal’s finishing sheet or spray to help the print bond more smoothly with the fabric. This process helps the ink settle in, resulting in a softer feel and enhanced durability.