What is a direct-to-fabric printer?

Experience the power of digital textile printing

Features By Ritoban Mukherjee published 1 November 2024

As the demand for personalized and unique textiles continues to grow, direct-to-fabric printing has emerged as a game-changing technology in the industry. Whether you're a fashion designer looking to create custom patterns or a home decor enthusiast wanting to bring your vision to life, direct-to-fabric printing offers endless possibilities.

But what exactly is a direct-to-fabric printer, and how does it differ from other textile printing methods? In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the ins and outs of this innovative technology, from its basic principles to the top printers available in 2024.

By the end of this article, you'll have a solid understanding of direct-to-fabric printing and be equipped with the knowledge to decide if it's the right choice for your textile projects. So, let's dive in and unravel the world of direct-to-fabric printing!

Also check out the best printers for T-shirts.

What is direct-to-fabric?

Direct-to-fabric printing, also known as roll-to-roll printing, is a digital printing method that allows you to print designs directly onto a continuous roll of fabric. Unlike traditional printing methods or even direct-to-garment (DTG) printing, which prints on pre-made garments, direct-to-fabric printing offers unparalleled flexibility and efficiency.

The process involves using specialized inkjet printers that spray water-based inks directly onto the fabric fibers. These inks are specially formulated to bond with the fabric, creating vibrant, long-lasting prints that can withstand washing and wear.

One of the key advantages of direct-to-fabric printing is its versatility. As Kornit Digital explains, "Direct-to-Fabric has no fabric type limitations and can be used on any type of fabric as opposed to DTG which has some application limitations." This means you can print on a wide range of materials, from natural fibers like cotton and silk to synthetic fabrics like polyester and nylon.

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