Textile printing technical information

Technical information on textile printing: Explore the best techniques

Textile printing allows you to add patterns, designs, and images to fabrics, with applications ranging from the fashion industry to interior design. With many techniques available, choosing the most suitable method can be challenging.

There is no universally best technique: each method has its own specific advantages and limitations. The choice will depend on the project, the type of garment or textile, the desired marking (logo, text, or photo), and budget constraints.

Quick comparison of the main techniques

• Screen printing : high precision, ideal for bright and long-lasting colors, but expensive for small runs.

• Digital printing : total customization and complex details, ideal for small runs, but some inks require specific treatment to fix the colors.

• Sublimation : long-lasting and vibrant results, perfect for synthetic fabrics, limited to polyester fibers.

• Transfer : versatile and adaptable to many fabrics, but less durable than other methods.

Screen printing

Screen printing is one of the oldest and most widespread techniques. It involves using a fine mesh screen onto which ink is pushed through the open areas to create the design on the fabric.

Benefits :

• High precision and color quality

• Suitable for many fabrics (cotton, polyester, blends)

• Vibrant and long-lasting colors

Disadvantages:

• Expensive for small print runs

• Requires advanced technical skills

Typical applications: advertising t-shirts, personalized caps, promotional textiles.

Digital printing

Digital printing uses specialized printers to transfer the design directly onto the fabric. It allows for the reproduction of complex details, gradients, and high-resolution images.

Benefits :

• Customization piece by piece

• Ideal for prototypes and small production runs

• Precision and richness of detail

Disadvantages:

• Some inks may require treatment to fix the colors

• Durability sometimes lower than screen printing or sublimation

Typical applications: small runs of t-shirts, on-demand textiles.

Sublimation

Sublimation uses special inks that turn into a gas under the effect of heat and bond to the fabric fibers, providing durable and wash-resistant prints.

Benefits :

• Vibrant and precise colors

• Wash and fade resistant

• Ideal for intricate patterns

Disadvantages:

• Limited to synthetic fabrics (polyester)

• Does not work on natural fibers

Typical applications: sportswear, custom jerseys, swimwear, flags.

Transfer

The transfer process involves printing the design onto special paper and then transferring it onto the fabric using heat and pressure.

Benefits :

• High print quality

• Compatible with many fabrics (natural and synthetic)

• Image accuracy and fidelity

Disadvantages:

• Durability lower than direct techniques

• The pattern is not directly integrated into the fibers

Typical applications: personalized t-shirts, bags, promotional textiles.

Embroidery

Embroidery involves stitching a design directly onto fabric using threads of different colors. It is a traditional technique that offers a high-end finish.

Benefits :

• Luxurious and professional appearance

• Very durable

• Ideal for small patterns, logos and uniforms

Disadvantages:

• Less suitable for fine details or very small text

• Higher cost for complex or multi-colored patterns

Typical applications: polo shirts, jackets, caps, promotional bags.

Hot stamping

Hot foil stamping uses heat and pressure to imprint a design or logo onto the substrate, often with a gold, silver, or colored foil.

Benefits :

• Elegant and professional effect

• Available in metallic or colored finishes

• Suitable for many materials (leather, plastic, textiles)

Disadvantages:

• Less suitable for very thin or stretchy fabrics

• A relatively long process for large production runs

Typical applications: leather goods, badges, luxury labels, corporate gifts.

Doming

Doming involves covering a printed sticker with a polyurethane resin that hardens, forming a dome.

Benefits :

• Brilliant and visual 3D effect

• Pleasant touch and premium feel

• Protects the image over time

Disadvantages:

• Especially suitable for rigid objects and small surfaces

• Less suitable for textiles

Typical applications: stickers, badges, rigid promotional items.

Embossing and debossing

Embossing creates raised designs on a surface, while debossing creates recessed designs. Both techniques use an engraved plate and are primarily handcrafted.

Benefits :

• Elegant and tactile appearance

• Ideal for paper, cardboard or leather

• High-end and distinctive effect

Disadvantages:

• Not suitable for multi-color printing

• Limited to certain rigid or semi-rigid materials

Typical applications: business cards, packaging, notebook covers, leather goods.

Conclusion

Each printing or marking technique has its own advantages depending on the type of product, material, design, and budget. Choosing the right method guarantees a professional, durable result that aligns with your brand image.