Why Your T‑Shirt Print Is Peeling & How To Fix It – Tips for Creators
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When your T‑shirt prints start peeling after just a few wears, it’s not just annoying—it’s a hit to your brand’s aesthetic. At Original Thread Co. we care about your merchandise as much as you do. Here’s why prints peel and what you can do to fix and prevent it.
**Why Do T‑Shirt Prints Peel?**
Print peeling often comes down to how the ink bonds with fabric. Common reasons include:
- **Inadequate curing** – Plastisol ink must be fully cured with heat; if curing is incomplete the print will remain soft and peel over time.
- **Incorrect heat or pressure** – During printing or heat pressing, low temperature or pressure can prevent proper adhesion.
- **Low‑quality ink or materials** – Cheap inks, transfer papers or blanks may not stand up to repeated wear and washing.
- **Harsh washing and drying** – High heat in the dryer, aggressive detergents or bleach can break down the print.
**How to Fix a Peeling Print**
If your favorite shirt has started to flake, try this before giving up:
1. Place the garment on a hard, heat‑resistant surface and cover the print with parchment
When your T‑shirt prints start peeling after just a few wears, it’s not just annoying—it’s a hit to your brand’s aesthetic. At Original Thread Co. we care about your merchandise as much as you do. Here’s why prints peel and what you can do to fix and prevent it.
**Why Do T‑Shirt Prints Peel?**
Print peeling often comes down to how the ink bonds with fabric. Common reasons include:
- **Inadequate curing** – Plastisol ink must be fully cured with heat; if curing is incomplete the print will remain soft and peel over time.
- **Incorrect heat or pressure** – During printing or heat pressing, low temperature or pressure can prevent proper adhesion.
- **Low‑quality ink or materials** – Cheap inks, transfer papers or blanks may not stand up to repeated wear and washing.
- **Harsh washing and drying** – High heat in the dryer, aggressive detergents or bleach can break down the print.
paper or a Teflon sheet.
2. Using a heat press set to 320‑330 °F (or an iron on the “cotton” setting without steam), press firmly for 10‑15 seconds. This re‑melts plastisol ink and helps it bond again.
3. Let the print cool completely before peeling off the parchment paper. Avoid stretching the fabric until it’s cool.
For transfers like DTF or heat vinyl, re‑pressing with the right temperature can also reactivate the adhesive.
**Prevention: Keep Your Prints Looking Fresh**
The best way to avoid peeling is to set yourself up for success from the start:
- Partner with a printer who understands proper curing and uses high‑quality inks (like our parent company Morningstar Screen Printing).
- Follow care instructions: wash shirts inside‑out in cold water, hang dry or tumble dry low, and skip the bleach and fabric softener.
- Store garments flat or folded to prevent friction on the printed surface.
**Elevate Your Brand with Original Thread Co.**
Creators and influencers deserve merch that stands up to the spotlight. Whether you need screen printing, embroidery, or DTF, we handle every detail with a design‑forward approach. Launch your next line with confidence—get in touch and we’ll bring your aesthetic to life.