CMYK
The four-color ink system used in DTF printing: Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, and Key (Black). Combined with a white ink channel, DTF printers use CMYK+W to reproduce full-color designs. CMYK layers are printed first, followed by the white underbase.
Related Terms
Specialized pigment-based ink used in DTF printing to create the opaque white underbase layer. White DTF ink contains titanium dioxide particles that are heavier than colored ink pigments, requiring regular agitation or circulation to prevent settling and clogging.
A layer of white ink printed beneath the colored design on DTF film. The white underbase ensures colors appear vibrant and opaque, especially on dark-colored garments. Without it, colors would appear transparent or washed out. The white layer is printed after the CMYK layers in DTF.