The new Image Lock RFU DTG pretreatment solution formula does not require any dilution.
The new Image Lock RFU (ready-for-use) is used at full-strength, from the container. Our Concentrate formulas you can use full-strength or dilute as desired up to 50%.
SHAKE the pretreat solution prior to use and before pouring into your pretreat sprayer. If you reclaim any solution (not recommended) always strain to ensure no fibers, dirt, dust, or other contaminants remain in the solution.
Image Lock RFU Pretreat Application Instructions:
Apply the solution as evenly as possible across the image area. We recommend a professional pretreat spray device for best results. Considerations and variables when determining how much solution to apply:
- A good starting point is 1.5 - 1.7 grams per inch (based on a width of 16). For example, if you are applying to a 16 wide x 20 long area, the amount of applied pretreat will be 30 - 34 grams.
- Always test to find your best operating procedures for your particular situation.
- Heavier garments require more solution, and lighter garments require less. Likewise, darker colors require more pretreat than white and light colors. The weight of the garment itself and its construction is, perhaps, the most important variable to consider.
- It is preferable to use a high quality, ring-spun garment, with a tight-knit weave. Remember, the smoother and tighter the weave of the garment, the better looking your DTG print will be.
Curing Instructions:
When using a Heat Transfer Press to dry pre-treat solution DO NOT use a Teflon sheet or Silicone treated Parchment paper to protect the garment. Also, DO NOT clamp the heat transfer press too tight. Simply lower the heat press to lightly kiss the garment (light pressure), and use non-silicone treated parchment paper as a protective sheet. Press the garment for 5 - 10 seconds at 330oF (you will see the moisture still escaping from the side of the heat platen). Then lift the transfer platen, quickly remove the pretreat curing paper, and then press again for an additional 15 - 20 seconds with heavy pressure. Overall cure time is around 30 seconds - in stages (see above). If after 30 seconds there is still moisture trapped in the shirt, re-press in 10-second intervals until the garment is dry.
Pressure setting: You don't need a lot of pressure for the initial press. Use light pressure to start (the kiss-method). Use heavy pressure on the final press, so you matte the fibers down and create a smooth printing surface.
Storage of Garments:
Shirts can contain pretreat solution in advance of printing. We suggest using the garment within 30 - 60 days of pretreat application. Always re-press the garment for 10 seconds with light pressure just before printing. This is to remove any moisture in the shirt, and to flatten any stray fibers. Shirts must be moisture-free before printing! Note: Be careful as not to degrade the application on the shirt by folding, bending, or scraping the print area where the pretreat solution is applied. Damage can occur to the thin film of pretreat solution, and you will be able to see variations where the pretreat application has been damaged. Remember, you want to print on a moisture-free, smooth image area.
