Printing on Fabric
There are many types of fabric that can be printed onto via a number of printing processes. These processes include inkjet printing, dye sublimation and screen printing (though this very rare for us now). When deciding on a fabric for printing, there are a number of things that need to be considered before deciding on what fabric is most appropriate and which process to use on this fabric. These factors include:
- Is the image colour or black and white?
- Full colour image of text / logo?
- How big is the print and what distance away will it be viewed from
- Is it going to be back lit?
- is the image going to be used again and again - at multiple event? or one hit use and replaced regularly?
- is the print being used outside and being exposed to long periods of UV.
- Do you need to see through the print? would a mesh print be better.
- What fire rating do you need?
All of these questions leads to answers that point to a certain fabric printed in a certain process. Some overview points to assist you in your consideration.
Printing onto non-absorbent fabric with an Ink jet type process, i.e. PVC coated polyester, PVC coated glass, Coated Nylons and other coated fabrics
To print onto non-absorbent fabric, an Inkjet process is often used - using various inks. This process involves laying the ink onto the surface of the fabric - where is dries without being absorbed. This results in a print that is vibrant in colour high in contrast. Therefore this technique and fabric type is generally used as banners either for exterior or exhibition purposes - being very cost efficient. The disadvantage is that because the colour is on the surface of the fabric - it may be easily scratched off and therefore not ideal for re-use.
Printing onto absorbent fabric with an Ink jet type process - cotton canvas, cleval canvas, non-coated nylon
To print onto absorbent fabric an inkjet process can be use - but unfortunately due to the absorbency of the fabric colour definition and contrast from the original image can be lost - even on flat colour and logos. These levels of loss depend on the absorbency of the material - and the type of machine being used to print - but are generally reflected in the cost.
Die Sublimation
The process of Die Sublimation involves firstly printing the image onto a paper media this is then passed through a heat rolling machine with the final use fabric - where is passes from the paper to the fabric - being absorbed into the fabric. This two stage process means that colour are bright, contrast is high - but perhaps more importantly -the print is actually pushed into the fabric - meaning it wont scratch off, it can be stretched and re-used with very little damage. Costs for die sublimation are falling fast - and this is commonly becoming the method of choice.
Art work for the purpose of media printing must be supplied in the following:
Adobe (Creative suite) Photoshop, Illustrator, Indesign.
We require high resolution, print ready files; you must turn all text into outline format and supply all fonts. Original files are preferable to pdfs.
To gain further advice on printing, please contact us.
Fabric Structures Guide
Need to know more about tensile fabric structures? Find the answers to your questions in our guide to fabric structures >>Technical Information
Our technical section contains information about all aspects of tensile structures, from fabric types to rigging screws >>Contact
If you'd like to know more about any of our projects, or you'd like to get a quote for a project you have in mind, then contact us on 0870 609 0051 >>
Garden Shade
A unique pre-designed product range to provide a contemporary look to any outside space, be it a small town garden or country garden which offers great sun and rain protection from the unpredictable British weather.Go to site
Tensile Fabric Exhibition
Designed for exhibition and touring use, to offer you maximum choice of structures with the minimum of hassle, each form is supplied with full instructions and a tough kit bag for storage and re-use.Go to site
Pub Canopy
In the light of the new smoking legislation for pubs and restaurants smokingcanopy.co.uk designed a cost effective, off-the-shelf product range providing a stylish way cater for all your clients.Go to site
Play Canopy
A range of canopiesdesigned in response to the growing need for outdoor shaded recreational areas in schools and nurseries. Expand your play area with an affordable, functional yet creative canopy solution.
Go to site
