Both digital printing and screen printing processes involve taking your design and transferring it onto fabric. Digital printing and screen printing each use very different processes to achieve this, but there are two main mediums that are used to print with that are common to both.

The introduction of digital printing fabric has brought great advancement in the process of printing onto fabric. As it’s a new process it’s also continually evolving. The basic process involves sending a digital file of your artwork from a computer to a specialised printer. This means you can create your artwork in Photoshop or Illustrator and prepare your file according to the digital printing companies specifications, send your file to them and have it directly printed onto the fabric. Each company will have their own requirements in regards to file format etc.

The two main types of printing used are dye sublimation and digital pigment printing. Each digital printing company will have their preferred method so it’s best to do some research and see which you prefer. Dye sublimation involves printing with dyes and digital pigment printing uses pigments. Your choice will depend on factors such as the fabric you want to print on and the end use of the fabric.

The great news is that digital printing fabric is becoming a much more affordable option so if you are starting out you can easily get some samples made without having to spend a fortune.