The art of textile finishing: an overview of the most common textile printing processes and their application

The art of textile finishing: an overview of the most common textile printing processes and their application

Flex print

Flex printing is a transfer printing process in which plain films are cut out and applied to textiles using a transfer press. The range of printable items is large, but the process is best suited for simple motifs with up to four colors.

Advantages of flex printing:

  • rich colors
  • high opacity
  • sharp contours

The art of textile finishing: an overview of the most common textile printing processes and their application

Flock print

Flock printing is similar to flex printing, but the surface is defined by a velvety feel. It is particularly suitable for children's and baby clothing and is limited to a maximum of four colors.

Advantages of flock printing:

  • rich colors
  • high opacity
  • sublime print
  • fluffy velvety feel

The art of textile finishing: an overview of the most common textile printing processes and their application

Digital direct printing

Digital direct printing is ideal for displaying color gradients and halftones and enables photo-realistic motifs. The color is applied directly to the textile, resulting in a comfortable feel.

Advantages of digital direct printing:

  • unlimited number of printing colors per motif
  • hardly noticeable pressure, soft fabric handle
  • high wash resistance
  • detailed representations and complex patterns possible
  • Color separation not necessary, vector or pixel graphics possible

The art of textile finishing: an overview of the most common textile printing processes and their application

Screen printing

Screen printing is a classic direct printing process and is particularly suitable for medium to high volumes. It enables opaque and bright colors as well as a variable thickness of the ink layer.

Advantages of screen printing:

  • Large print runs can be realized at low cost
  • Screen adjustment is not required for follow-up orders and reduces costs
  • opaque and bright colors
  • high wash resistance
  • variable thickness of the paint layer

The art of textile finishing: an overview of the most common textile printing processes and their application

Plastisol transfer printing

Plastisol transfer printing is a transfer printing process that uses individually printed transfer substrates. Transfers can be stored and pressed as needed, which is particularly easy on the budget.

Advantages of plastisol transfer printing

  • good opacity and bright colors
  • high durability and wash resistance
  • Transfers can be stored and used as needed
  • Flexible production of even small quantities possible
  • suitable for multicolor motifs and logos

The art of textile finishing: an overview of the most common textile printing processes and their application

Sublimation printing

Sublimation printing is a transfer printing process that is particularly suitable for light-colored or white textiles made of polyester or polyester coatings. In this process, the ink is vaporized into the structure of the material, making the print barely noticeable and preserving the breathability of the textile.

Advantages of sublimation printing:

  • unlimited number of printing colors per motif
  • hardly noticeable pressure and breathability are maintained
  • high wash resistance
  • no fading of colors
  • is suitable for large-area motifs and color gradients

The art of textile finishing: an overview of the most common textile printing processes and their application

Embroidery

Embroidery is a traditional textile finishing process in which the motif is embroidered directly into the textile. It is particularly durable and is ideal for logos and lettering.

Advantages of embroidery:

  • durable and high quality finishing
  • high wash resistance
  • noble appearance
  • suitable for logos and lettering
  • Set-up costs are waived for follow-up orders

The art of textile finishing: an overview of the most common textile printing processes and their application

Summary

The choice of the right printing method depends on various factors, such as the number of pieces, the textile material, the colors and the desired motif. Each process has its own advantages and disadvantages, which is why it is important to choose the right method for the application. Flex and flock printing are suitable for simple designs, while direct digital printing and sublimation printing are suitable for detailed and colorful designs. Screen printing and plastisol transfer printing are cost-effective for larger quantities, while embroidery offers a high-quality, long-lasting option for logos and lettering.