Nothing is more frustrating than spending time and resources on a DTG (Direct-to-Garment) print—only to end up with a blurry image, banding, or dull colors. Whether you're just starting out or printing at scale, DTG print quality issues can hurt your reputation and bottom line.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the most common DTG print quality problems, their causes, and how to fix them. Plus, we’ll share pro tips to optimize your prints for sharpness, brightness, and durability.

Common DTG Print Quality Issues (and Fixes)

1. Blurry or Soft Prints

Cause:

● Low-resolution artwork (less than 150 DPI)

● Garment shifting during print

● Incorrect print height setting

Fix:

● Always use 300 DPI PNG or TIFF files

● Secure the shirt tightly on the platen

● Adjust print head height as per your machine's settings

2. Banding (Horizontal Lines)

Cause:

● Clogged nozzles

● Misaligned print head

● Low-quality RIP settings

Fix:

● Perform a nozzle check and cleaning cycle

● Re-align your print head

● Increase DPI or print pass count in your RIP software

✅ The MTuTech DTG Printer is designed with auto-cleaning and stable print paths to minimize banding even during long production runs.

3. Washed-Out or Faded Colors

Cause:

● Poor-quality ink

● Inadequate curing

● Incorrect ink layering (especially on dark shirts)

Fix:

● Use genuine, high-quality DTG inks

● Cure at 160°C (320°F) for 90–120 seconds with a heat press or dryer

● Check RIP settings for proper color and underbase layering

4. Cracked Prints After Washing

Cause:

● Under-curing

● Over-thick ink layers

● Printing on unsuitable garments

Fix:

● Confirm correct curing time and temperature

● Adjust ink density in RIP

● Use DTG-compatible 100% cotton shirts

5. Dull or Muted Colors on Dark Shirts

Cause:

● Inadequate white underbase

● Uneven or poor pre-treatment

● Incorrect ink settings

Fix:

● Increase white ink density in RIP

● Reapply pretreatment evenly and cure properly

● Test multiple settings to find optimal color vibrancy

Pro Tips to Optimize DTG Print Quality

✅ Use High-Resolution Artwork

Never use low-res JPEGs or blurry screenshots. Use vector graphics or 300 DPI files for best output.

✅ Regularly Maintain Your Printer

● Clean print heads, wipers, and capping station

● Shake white ink daily

● Run auto-cleaning routines if unused for 24+ hours

✅ Perfect Your Pretreatment Process

● Measure pretreatment fluid precisely (16–20 grams/shirt)

● Apply evenly using a pretreatment machine

● Cure pretreatment fully before printing

✅ Calibrate Your RIP Software

● Set the correct color profiles

● Fine-tune white underbase levels

● Adjust ink density to reduce bleeding and over-saturation

Optimize Your Prints with the Right Equipment

High-quality prints start with high-quality equipment. The MTuTech DTG Printer is engineered for:

● Precision printing

● Ink efficiency

● Consistent color output

● Easy maintenance

It's the perfect choice for businesses that prioritize print quality and customer satisfaction.

Final Thoughts

Poor DTG print quality doesn’t have to be a headache. With a combination of the right settings, good artwork, and routine maintenance, you’ll consistently deliver sharp, vibrant prints that last.

 Want to simplify your workflow and maximize quality?

Explore the MTuTech DTG Printer – Built for Stunning Print Results, Every Time.