PIGMENT PRINTING
Digital pigment printing is a modern textile and surface printing method that uses pigment- based inks applied directly onto fabric (using specialised digital printers. Unlike older methods (like screen printing or dye-based digital printing)
How It Works
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Design Preparation – Your design is created digitally (e.g., in Photoshop/Illustrator).
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Digital Printer – A high-resolution printer sprays pigment ink directly onto the surface of the fabric.
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Binder & Fixation – Pigment inks require a binder (like a glue) that is heat-set or cured, locking the pigment particles onto the fabric surface.
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Finishing – Heat curing or steaming ensures durability.
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Key Features
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Versatile – Works on many types of fabrics (cotton, linen, polyester blends, etc.).
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Eco-friendly – Uses less water and fewer chemicals compared to dye-based methods.
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On-demand Printing – Perfect for short runs, samples, or customised designs (no screens or plates needed).
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Surface Coloration – Pigment inks sit on top of the fibres rather than penetrating them, so prints can feel slightly different depending on finishing.
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Advantages
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Rich, vibrant color with good lightfastness (resists fading in sunlight).
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Works well for fine detail and photographic prints.
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Cost-effective for small batches (no setup costs).
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Sustainable (low water use, minimal waste).
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Limitations
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Sometimes a stiffer hand-feel if not pre- and post-treated properly.
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Not as deep a color penetration as dye-based digital printing.
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May not be ideal for fabrics requiring a stretch