Printing is a process of expressing patterns, motifs, and text on the surface of textiles using dyes, pigments, and similar materials, and various methods are used depending on design requirements and the textile's applications.
Definition and Overview
Print is a process of adding colors and patterns to plain or piece-dyed textile using screens or digital data. In the apparel field, the term “print” is also used to refer to textile with floral patterns, geometric patterns, checks, logos, and other designs.
In contrast to yarn dyed, where color is applied at the thread stage before weaving or knitting, print is a method of adding patterns after the textile has been made. The processing method is selected according to the pattern expression, material, quantity, and desired hand feel.
Characteristics
Print is characterized by its ability to add detailed motifs and multicolor patterns that are difficult to express with weave or knit structures alone. Depending on the pattern size, repeat, number of colors, and whether pattern matching is required, the appearance after cutting and the fabric yield can change significantly.
Processing methods include those that make the colorant penetrate and fix into the textile, and those that form a film of colorant on the surface. The former tends to produce a softer hand, while the latter tends to give vivid color, although the hand feel may change.
- Because patterns have a front and back side, manage them carefully so they are not mixed up during cutting and sewing.
- Depending on the ground color, material, and sheerness of the base, the same pattern may appear differently in color and overall look.
- If the pattern has a directional layout, one-way cutting may be necessary.
Main Applications
Print textiles are widely used for garments centered on patterns as a design element, such as shirts, blouses, dresses, skirts, cut-and-sew items, and children's clothing. They can be processed from lightweight to heavyweight fabrics, and suitable items and seasons vary depending on the base fabric type.
In addition to apparel, they are used for bags, accessories, linings, and interior applications. Depending on the application, it is important to confirm the required performance, such as resistance to friction, color fading during washing, and staining caused by combination with light-colored items.
Selection and Handling Notes
When selecting, check not only the design of the pattern but also the base fabric structure, blend ratio, thickness, stretchability, print method, and hand feel. In mass production, color differences and variations in pattern position may occur from roll to roll, so the acceptable range between samples and production goods should be decided in advance.
Before sewing, check the top and bottom of the pattern, the left and right orientation, the repeat size, and pattern matching at the seam locations. In particular, large patterns, borders, stripes, and panel patterns require attention because the product impression and fabric yield change depending on the cutting layout.
The degree of color fading, color transfer, and discoloration caused by washing or friction varies depending on the colorant, base fabric, and processing conditions. Follow the care label instructions, wash dark items separately, and test the iron on an inconspicuous area before pressing during sewing.
Differences from Similar Terms
Yarn dyed is a method in which thread is dyed first and then patterns are formed through weaving or knitting. It is characterized by the natural look created by the crossing of threads, and the appearance on the front and back may differ from print. Print applies patterns to the surface of the textile, making it a method well suited to expressing complex designs.
Piece dyed refers to the process of dyeing textile in a plain color and does not necessarily add patterns. Screen printing is a technical term used almost synonymously with print. In addition, pigment printing and dye printing differ in their colorant and fixing mechanisms, and their tendencies in hand feel and fastness also vary.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can printed textiles be distinguished from yarn-dyed textiles?
Because print adds patterns to the surface, the pattern may appear faintly or hardly at all on the reverse side. Yarn-dyed textiles are made by forming the structure or pattern with dyed thread, so patterns tend to appear on both the front and back. However, there are exceptions depending on the processing and structure.
What should be noted when sewing print textiles?
Check the top and bottom and the left and right orientation of the pattern, and decide the pattern position for each piece before cutting. With large patterns, borders, and stripes, pattern matching may be required for the front and back body pieces or the left and right sleeves, which can increase the fabric yield more than usual. Needle holes from resewing can also be noticeable, so a test seam should be made.
Do print textiles fade during washing?
The likelihood of fading and color transfer depends on the colorant, base fabric, whether the item is dark or light, and the processing conditions. Before use, check the care label and information on fastness, and consider washing dark items separately. Attention should also be paid to discoloration from friction, sweat, and sunlight.
