Steps for success in the textile printing market

Shane Furness, procurement director at Soyang Europe, explains.

There is no doubt that the textile printing market, both in the UK and around the world, is continuing to flourish and grow. It is being driven by advancements in a trilogy of technologies – printers, finishing equipment and textiles. Output that was previously unable to be digitally printed is now achievable and is opening up opportunities for print companies to produce all manner of innovative and creative pieces.

While this rapidly growing market is exciting, companies wanting to excel in textile print for the first time must first look at the tools they need to succeed.

First up is your printer; what machine do you need? There are plenty of printers available on the market, so how do you know which one is right for you? Start by understanding the type of applications that you want to create and the markets you want to target. Use this application and market knowledge to select the most suitable hardware and marry this with the correct ink technology.

Soyang Hardware offers a variety of advanced printers tailored for textile applications, such as the new Mimaki TS330-3200ds dye sublimation printer. Additionally, the Fujifilm Acuity Ultra provides reliable and high volume solutions for durable graphics.

Also, relating to hardware, companies must look at the type of finishing equipment needed to produce the chosen applications. This is just as important – if not more so – than the printer choice. Given the huge advancements in finishing technology and the many new capabilities, it is this area that drives efficiencies, removes many bottlenecks and makes a huge difference to the bottom line.

On this front, Soyang Hardware is able to provide finishing options such as the Vivid Veloblade range and Solent Texsew Pro sewing machines for textiles ranging from flags to exhibition graphics.

Finally, think about what sort of materials you will be working with. There are many types of textiles available, but not all are suitable for every application. Carefully consider the work you will be producing and research the most suitable material for the project. Remember that the technology of both the raw textiles and the coating used have developed dramatically in recent years. Talk with suppliers who are experts in this field and can offer you advice and guidance. Also, check whether your material of choice is compatible with both your printing and finishing hardware.

Sustainability will become an increasingly important aspect of printed textile work, and those planning to move into the sector should keep this in mind if they are to succeed in the long term.

Of course, picking out the right textile amid a sea of options is easier said than done. To aid you in your quest, there are several factors to keep in mind: the quality and stability of fabric, the environmental impact of creating this material, and how this will reflect on your own sustainability strategy.

Importantly – for efficiency and to meet tight turnaround times – you need to be sure that your supplier has the space to hold their complete range in stock and the ability to ship on demand nationwide, which is something we focus on.