Pre-treating a T-shirt with a Pre-treatment Machine

Since pre-treatment machine models may vary in operation and controls, you should consult the pre-treatment machine documentation.
Warning: Depending on the type of sprayer used, the machine may create a mist when applying the pre-treatment solution. Wear a mask, protective eyewear, and gloves, and make sure the area is well ventilated. The solution mist could also enter the printer and cause a malfunction or damage the product. If necessary, install the pre-treatment machine in a location away from the printer.
Note: Apply approximately 0.5 ounces (15 grams) of pre-treatment solution to printing areas of letter-/A4-size. Do not apply too much pre-treatment liquid; otherwise, the print quality may decline.
  1. Pour the diluted pre-treatment solution into the pre-treatment machine as directed by the manufacturer.
  2. Spread out the T-shirt on a flat surface.
  3. Use sticky tape (or a lint roller) to remove lint from the area where you will apply the pre-treatment solution.


  4. Place the T-shirt on the pre-treatment machine platen.
  5. Set the controls to adequately cover the desired printed area with pre-treatment solution. (On 1 to 100 dial controls, this may be 30 to 45.) We recommend applying the pre-treatment solution to an area larger than the target print area.
    Note: You can apply the solution evenly by running the roller over the treated area.
  6. Fix the pre-treatment solution with a heat press with parchment (silicone) paper.
    Note: The T-shirt fibers must be pressed flat to produce even whiteness. If you use a heat tunnel to fix the ink, use a heat press for a short period of time at high pressure to flatten the T-shirt fibers before printing.