Pigment ink printing, despite its still low popularity, has already permanently entered the textile industry, becoming an integral part of it. The share of this particular method of dyeing and printing fabrics currently amounts to around 3% on the textile market, but this does not diminish the advantages of pigment printing. What are the strengths of this printing process?
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Pigment ink printing is one of the four digital textile printing methods. Digital printing is divided according to the type of dye used, and this group includes pigment ink printing, dye-sublimation printing as well as acid dye printing and reactive dye printing.
See also: Fabric printing methods – which printing technology to choose?
A wide range of applications spanning from textile dyeing to pattern printing makes the pigment ink process more and more popular on the market. One of the reasons for its success is that it removes many of the existing printing constraints. For example, it enables printing on both printed t-shirts and fabric bolts with a pattern – original or selected from a catalogue.
Although it still accounts for a small share of fabric dyeing and printing methods used today, using pigment inks is in many cases the most desirable way to print on textiles. It enables us to create unique patterns on a wide assortment of fabrics, made of various fibres, although, of course, it has its limitations. In practice, printing on cotton textiles is predominant, though this does not exclude the use of fabrics made from polyester or cellulose fibres such as lyocell or Tencel. On the other hand, waterproof fabrics or eco-leather are not suitable for pigment ink printing.
Printing on fabrics made from cellulose requires a complex finishing process for such textiles to preserve their colouring effect. This procedure requires both water and chemicals. It also involves increased production costs, resource consumption and environmental pollution, so not every digital fabric printing house offers to print on, for example, viscose. For the present, printing using reactive dyes remains the best method of printing on cellulose fibres.
Digital fabric printing allows, above all, retail customers to display their talents. It is not just large clothing companies that can produce unique sewing textiles now. Thanks to digital fabric printing houses, anyone can do it. You can design your pattern from a drawing or a photo or choose a ready-made design from a catalogue. There are many options and even more ways to use such fabrics. From the perspective of small entrepreneurs, it is also an appealing alternative to having to order entire bolts of fabric and storing them in warehouses. Nothing stands in the way of creating a short line of patterns to create limited pieces for the collection. Even the creation of sample textiles does not have to involve ordering at least a few running metres of fabrics.
For the amateurs of textile printing, the main advantage of pigment ink printing will certainly be its low cost. Digital pigment ink printing eliminates the need for expensive printing plates, as in the case of screen printing, so that the sole cost of the printing process is not enormously high. Besides, the customer is not limited by the minimum order size. In the case of digital pigment ink printing, it is possible to create even a few centimetres of printed fabric.
At CottonBee you can order a sample print in size 20 cm x 20 cm or a 48 cm x 48 cm size.
No need for printing plates also affects the order fulfilment time. Fabric printing houses that use dye-sublimation or reactive dye printing processes only accept large projects, usually several months in advance. In such a case, the order fulfilment time may be significantly prolonged. As far as using the services of an Internet textile printing house, you can have a ready order at home in up to 5 working days. You are also not obliged to place orders for several or several dozen running meters of fabric.
Digital pigment ink printing process allows only the surface colouring of the fabric. Therefore, the colourful pattern is on top of the fabric, while the underneath remains in its natural, usually white, colour. The inks do not seep into the fibres, as in the case of reactive dye printing. This is also connected to the longevity of such colouring, which is shorter compared to the dye-sublimation or reactive dye printing processes. As a surface printing method, pigment ink prints are vulnerable to more rapid washing out. After many washes, the patterns may lose some of their intensity. Pigmented fabrics do not tolerate rubbing very well, especially when wet.
Digital pigment ink printing allows printing from a very wide range of colours and provides excellent tonal transitions. Nevertheless, it has some constraints in terms of colour reproduction. Bright colours are very difficult to achieve using this method, while special colours such as metallic or fluorescent are not achievable at all. Also, it is a technology that favours bright, pastel prints. Although recreating deep black is not a problem, pigment ink printing will not be the best choice for printing predominantly black patterns with white elements.
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See also: Digital fabric printing: what awaits in the future?
In the realm of fabric printing, the choice of ink can significantly affect the final product's quality and performance. Our exploration of textile inks reveals how G&G's digital textile inks stand out in the market, providing innovative solutions for various applications in the textile industry.
Key Features of Textile Inks
One of the standout features of G&G's textile inks is their ability to create a strong physical bond with fibers. This characteristic allows us to print directly onto a wide array of fabrics, including both natural fibers like cotton and synthetic blends. The result is vibrant and durable prints that maintain their integrity even after multiple washes.
Additionally, the simplicity of the printing process associated with G&G's textile inks is noteworthy. This streamlined approach not only enhances productivity but also contributes to energy savings. By reducing waste and minimizing water consumption, we can adopt more sustainable practices in our printing operations. Coupled with sharp colors and an extensive color gamut, G&G's textile inks ensure that our printed designs are not only visually striking but also environmentally responsible.
Diverse Applications of Textile Inks
The versatility of G&G's textile inks allows for a broad range of applications. In the fashion industry, these inks are ideal for producing various types of outerwear and garments. Whether creating vibrant t-shirts or intricate patterns on jackets, our textile inks deliver exceptional results that meet the demands of fashion-forward consumers.
Moreover, the home textiles sector benefits significantly from G&G's textile inks. From bedding to curtains, the ability to print directly onto fabrics allows for customized designs that enhance interior aesthetics. This flexibility enables us to cater to unique customer preferences, making personalized home décor a reality.
Additionally, G&G's textile inks are suitable for accessories such as shoes and bags. The durability and color vibrancy of these inks ensure that printed designs remain intact, even with regular use. This application broadens our market reach and opens up new opportunities for creative expression in the accessories field.
Conclusion
In summary, G&G's textile inks represent a significant advancement in fabric printing technology. With features that promote strong fiber bonding, energy efficiency, and a wide color range, these inks are an excellent choice for diverse applications. Whether we are producing garments, home textiles, or accessories, G&G's textile inks provide the quality and versatility that modern businesses require.
We encourage businesses in the textile industry to explore the benefits of G&G's textile inks. By choosing our innovative solutions, we can enhance our product offerings while maintaining a commitment to sustainability and quality. Trust G&G to meet your textile printing needs with excellence.
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