Squeegee hardness and pressure adjustment to absorb unevenness when printing on pocket T-shirts

When it comes to printing on pocket T-shirts, achieving a smooth and even print can often be challenging due to the uneven surface created by the pocket itself.

Understanding how to adjust the squeegee’s hardness and pressure can make all the difference between a quality print and one that leaves much to be desired.

This article will guide you through the nuances of adjusting squeegee hardness and pressure to absorb unevenness effectively.

Understanding Squeegee Hardness

The hardness of a squeegee is generally measured in durometers.

Squeegees range from soft (around 50 durometers) to hard (approximately 90 durometers).

The choice of squeegee hardness dictates the amount of pressure required and the amount of ink deposited onto the substrate.

Soft Squeegees

Soft squeegees, typically in the range of 50-60 durometers, are more flexible and adaptable to surface irregularities.

This flexibility allows them to absorb some of the unevenness of pocket T-shirts, distributing ink more evenly across the print area.

They are ideal for use with delicate fabrics or where a detailed, lighter ink deposit is required.

However, they tend to wear out faster than harder squeegees.

Medium Squeegees

Medium squeegees, with a durometer range of 70-75, provide a balance between flexibility and stiffness.

They are often the go-to choice for standard printing situations because they allow a decent amount of ink to pass through while maintaining moderate durability.

Medium squeegees are versatile, able to handle a variety of printing conditions while achieving satisfactory results on slightly uneven surfaces like pocket T-shirts.

Hard Squeegees

Hard squeegees, ranking around 80-90 durometers, have minimal flexibility.

These are suited for precise applications demanding consistency, such as when printing large solid areas where texture variance is negligible.

While hard squeegees may not conform well to uneven surfaces, they help in controlling the ink flow significantly.

Pressure Adjustment for Pocket T-Shirt Printing

One of the most critical factors in adjusting to uneven surfaces during screen printing is the pressure applied by the squeegee.

The pressure must be evenly distributed to ensure the ink adheres properly to the fabric, especially around pocket areas.

Finding the Right Balance

Applying too much pressure can force ink beyond the intended design contours, causing smudging and bleeding.

Conversely, insufficient pressure can result in incomplete coverage and faint prints.

Finding the right balance means considering the type of fabric, ink consistency, and squeegee hardness.

Start by applying medium pressure and gradually adjust according to the test prints.

Analyzing print-around pocket areas and increasing pressure can correct insufficient ink transfer without overdoing it.

Trial and Error

Engaging in trial and error during initial setups allows for more tailored adjustments specific to each printing job.

Different pocket T-shirts will have varying weave tightness, fabric density, and pocket stitch rigidity, all affecting how pressure should be administered.

Conduct multiple test runs with different pressure settings and squeegee hardness levels to refine the technique for a particular batch of T-shirts.

Techniques to Improve Printing on Pocket T-Shirts

Beyond adjusting squeegee hardness and pressure, several techniques and considerations can enhance print quality on pocket T-shirts.

Using a Pillow

Insert a foam or inflatable pillow inside the T-shirt to provide a more uniform surface.

This mitigates the pocket bump, making the printing substrate flatter and easier to work on.

A pillow effectively evens out the pressure during printing, contributing to a clearer, more professional end result.

Adjusting Print Speed

Slower print speeds can facilitate more controlled ink application, reducing the risk of errors around the pocket area.

Carefully monitoring the speed ensures that the squeegee doesn’t drag or spill ink inadvertently over uneven surfaces.

Choosing the Right Ink

The type of ink plays a critical role in screen printing outcomes, especially with the complexities of a pocket T-shirt.

Experiment with different ink types to determine which offers the best results concerning opacity, adherence, and drying properties.

Water-based inks can provide a softer feel, whereas plastisol inks may offer vibrant colors and flexibility.

Conclusion

Screen printing on pocket T-shirts requires diligence and precision due to the unique challenges implied by the uneven fabric surface.

Adjusting squeegee hardness and pressure strategically can significantly enhance the quality and consistency of your prints.

By taking the time to conduct test prints and refine techniques like adding pillows or adjusting speed, you can absorb the surface inconsistencies of pocket T-shirts, ensuring every design looks as crisp and professional as possible.

Ultimately, mastering these adjustments and techniques will empower you to expand your screen printing capabilities to offer exceptional quality in every project.