Digital fabric printing has only been around for a little over 30 years. Skilled artists typically use computer design software to create the designs, but nowadays it's more easily accessible to others.

Do you need help deciding which fabric type is best for your digital printing project?

Whether you're doing digital printing on linen fabric, silk, or cotton, this article uncovers the pros and cons of different fabrics. This way you can compare the differences between them so you can make an informed decision on what fits your needs!

Printing on fabrics offers endless styling possibilities and allows you to achieve a unique and professional look, so get ready to learn about textile digital printing as you've never done so before.

What is Digital Fabric Printing and How Does It Work?

Digital fabric printing is a process where ink or dyes are printed onto textiles using a digital printer. It's an efficient and cost-effective way to print a design, pattern, logo, or image onto fabrics such as cotton, linen, silk, and more.

The inks used for this printing process adhere to the fibers of the textile material and therefore require special dryer settings for a successful print. In other words, digital fabric printing requires a special type of machine and machinery to ensure the design is printed correctly.

Pros and Cons of Digital Printing on Cotton Fabric

Cotton is one of the most popular fabrics for digital printing. It's lightweight and strong, making it easy to work with, while still being durable enough to handle repeated washes. The colors also retain their vibrancy after washing and drying.

However, there are some drawbacks when using cotton fabric for digital printing. Its natural fibers tend to be more absorbent, meaning the inks can take longer to dry. Additionally, cotton fabrics may require extra finishing techniques, such as pre-treatments or sealers, for the design to hold up over time.

Pros and Cons of Digital Printing on Linen Fabric

Linen is a strong and lightweight fabric that offers a unique texture to digital prints. It's also naturally absorbent, making it easy to print on. The colors of the design stay vibrant even after washing.

However, linen tends to be more expensive than other fabrics, such as cotton or silk. Additionally, because its fibers are so tightly woven, they can be difficult to print on without proper pre-treatment or sealers. This can add additional cost and time to the printing process.

Pros and Cons of Digital Printing on Silk Fabric

Silk is a luxurious fabric that provides an elegant look to digital prints. It's lightweight and strong, while still being flexible enough to move with the body. The printed colors stay vibrant even after washing and drying.

However, silk fabrics can be delicate and prone to fading or bleeding if not properly washed or cared for. Additionally, the inks can take longer to dry on silk fabrics, as they are more absorbent than other fabrics. Proper pre-treatment is also needed for the design to last over time.

Choosing What Fabric to Print On

When it comes to digital printing, choosing the right fabric is essential.

Different types of fabrics have different strengths and weaknesses when it comes to being printed on, so you must consider how you plan to use the fabric to make an informed decision. Factors such as cost, durability, and color vibrancy should all be taken into account when selecting a fabric for digital printing.

For Upholstery

Heavy fabrics such as canvas cotton, denim, and twill are often used for upholstery because they are durable and can withstand a lot of wear. You could use silk or linen for items such as cushion covers, but they are much more delicate.

For Apparel

Lightweight fabrics such as linen, cotton, silk, or even jersey are recommended. They offer more flexibility when it comes to the fit of the garment. Digital printing in fashion items allows you to produce a fabric that's unique to your style.

For Home Decor

Medium-weight fabrics including linens are great for home decor items like curtains and tablecloths. They provide a more substantial look while still being lightweight enough to hang properly.

Silk is often used for luxury items such as cushions or bedspreads because of its luxurious sheen and soft feel. It's important to remember that silk is a delicate fabric and tends to fade quickly, so it's best to choose fabrics that are specifically designed for digital printing.

Tips for Printing on Cotton, Silk and Linen Fabrics

Before you start printing on any type of fabric, make sure that it has been pre-treated and sealed. This will help to ensure the inks are properly absorbed so they don't fade or bleed over time.

If possible, test print your design on a scrap piece of fabric first to ensure the results are what you were hoping for before committing to a larger piece.

Follow the care instructions provided with the fabric to ensure your digital print lasts longer. This usually includes washing and drying at low temperatures and avoiding direct sunlight or harsh chemicals. Taking extra care of your printed fabric will help it look beautiful for years to come.

Need More Advice on Fabric Printing?

Digital printing on linen fabric is a great way to create unique designs from apparel to home decor items. There are benefits to using different fabrics, so it's important to know the desired end result you want to achieve.

If you need more advice about digital printing on fabrics, visit Advanced Digital Textiles. We specialize in custom fabric prints and can provide valuable insight into how best to get started!