Digital fabric printing is the most widely used technology for creating textile designs that are printed directly on fabrics. In fact, it is now the most popular means of printing textiles by manufacturers and hobbyists alike. There are many different methods or types of digital fabric printing, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. One of the most important things you want to consider before choosing a type is whether you want to use it for business purposes or just as a personal hobby. Each method has its own advantages and disadvantages; however, some are better suited for commercial use than others. Continue reading to learn more about the different digital fabric printing technologies currently available.
What is digital fabric printing?
Digital fabric printing is the process of creating printed fabric designs through various computer software programs. It is also known as Computer Assisted Design (CAD) printing, where designers create textile patterns on their computers and then send the design to a commercial printer. The printer then transfers the image to the fabric of your choice, where the fabric is dyed or printed with reactive water-soluble inks. This entire process is known as digital textile printing or direct-to-fabric printing. Digital fabric printing is the most popular fabric printing method currently available. The technology has evolved over the years and has become more affordable and available for commercial and home use. Digital fabric printing allows designers to create virtually any design imaginable, including realistic images and photos, intricate designs and even personalized graphics. You can also use digital fabric printing to create textile designs that are eco-friendly by using water-soluble inks.
Direct to fabric printing (DFP)
Direct-to-fabric printing is one of the oldest methods of digital fabric printing. In this method, a printer sprays ink directly onto fabrics. All you have to do is place your fabric on the inkjet printing table and press a “start” button. The printer will then apply the ink directly to your fabric in a specific pattern or design that you chose while designing the image on your computer. Direct to fabric print is also known as transfer print, direct to garment (DTG) print and screen print on fabric. This is one of the best ways to create custom T-shirts, sports uniforms, bags and other clothing at a low cost. When you print directly on fabrics, you are able to print on items without the use of special settings or inks. You can choose from a number of different fabrics such as cotton, polyester and nylon. The only downside to this method is that you have no control over where the ink will land on your fabric. This can cause problems when creating designs that need to look perfect.
Computer-to-Fabric (CTF) printing
Computer-to-Fabric printing is a newer technology that combines the best of both direct-to-fabric printing and computer-to-surface printing. The CTF printing method is a two-step process, with the first step similar to DFP. In the first step, you create your design on a computer and then print the image on a fabric-like paper (CTF paper) using a special printer. In the second step, you place the image printed on CTF paper on the fabric and then transfer the image from the CTF paper to the fabric using a special press or iron. This method is quite similar to DFP, except for one important difference. DFP uses a chemical ink-based printing technique, whereas CTF uses a water-based printing method. CTF uses a water-soluble ink that is environmentally friendly and safe for fabrics.
Digitally applied
If you are looking for a fabric printing technique that does not require a large investment, consider digital applied printing. In this method, an inkjet printhead applies small amounts of liquid dye to the fabric. You can use digitally applied printing to print on fabrics like cotton and polyester. However, the quality of your print is determined by the type of fabric you are printing on. You must ensure that the textile has the right surface structure so that the ink can stick to it. Fabrics such as cotton, polyester and nylon have the right structure for printing, whereas silk and wool do not. Digitally applied printing works best for basic designs like logos or simple photographs that don’t need to be extremely high quality.
Digital Dye Sublimation Print technology
If you are looking for a flexible fabric printing technique that allows you to print on almost any fabric, then dye sublimation printing may be the best option. This technique involves first applying a layer of ink to the back of the fabric and then transferring the image to the front of the fabric. There are two ways to do this, either by printing the fabric first and then transferring the image to the fabric, or by printing the fabric and then transferring the image to the fabric. The first method is known as “offline sublimation printing” and the second is known as “online sublimation printing.” Both methods use a digital printer and are usually performed in a commercial setting. Fabrics such as cotton, polyester, nylon and spandex can be used with this technique. You can use dye sublimation printing to create custom T-shirts, bags, pillowcases and more.
Bottom line
Fabric printing is a booming business, expected to grow by more than 10% by 2022. There are many different types of digital fabric printing, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Direct to fabric printing is one of the earliest methods, while dye sublimation printing is one of the newest methods available. When choosing a type, take into account the cost, ease of use and durability of the fabric. You may also want to consider whether the fabric printing method is environmentally friendly or not, as well as which fabrics can be printed on with each method. With so many options at your disposal, it’s easy to see why digital fabric printing is the most popular textile printing method out there.
