How can a printer salvage a shirt with part of a registration mark printed on it?

Here are a few thoughts on trying to salvage a shirt with a registration mark.

First, consider if the garment is best used for registration or sampling, another project, or if it just needs to become the new shop rag. Consider your use of time and materials, as well as costs when making a decision. The following options have all been successful, but remember none are guaranteed.

Now to begin, the first piece of advice is not to apply heat directly.  Curing the ink before trying to remove it will only make this harder, and limit your options.

One method begins with promptly rinsing the marked area with cold water, followed by rinsing it with warm water. Then covering the mark with a paper bag (shiny side down) as a cover sheet, and ironing the covered area without steam. Finally, use sugar to scrub away the remainder of the marked area gently.

Alternative methods to salvage your shirt include washing the garment, using acetone, spotting fluid, rubbing alcohol, or nail polish remover.

Please keep in mind when attempting to salvage a shirt you may have to use one or several methods, or steps, more than once. Be patient and persistent.  When using chemicals, make safety a priority, and never apply direct heat.

Remember, your goal is to salvage the shirt, so be gentle.

Here’s to saving!

—Kaptain Kirk Clothing Co.