With the global digital textile printing market
expected to show an unprecedented 18.29 per cent CAGR between 2017 and 2021,
use of polyester is likely to grow. This is because printing on synthetic
fabrics is a lot cheaper than printing on natural fabrics, according to the report‘Global Digital Textile Printing Market
2017-2021’, by Research and Markets. Polyester
is the most eligible synthetic material endorsed by digital printing experts.
Priscilla Wilson, principal director, Exhibit
Express, explains the hows and whys. “Polyester is preferred for digital
textile printing, owing to its high durability, resistance and strength
bettered by low shrinkage and colour fastness”, says Wilson. “Being sensitive
to heat, polyester can be manipulated effortlessly with high temperature and
pressure to create permanent pleats and laser cuts”, she adds.
Polyester is also preferred for large format soft
signage or custom display printing. Polyester 210gsm is widely used in wall
graphics, textile banners, table throws, flags and tension frame systems
frequently used in trade show booths. Talking about the best method to print on
polyester, Wilson says, “Ordinary dyes cannot alter the colour of polyester due
to its high stain-resistance. We need disperse dyes to create the expected
results. To minimise dye migration, we use a white or grey ink as a base before
applying any other colour. The dye-sublimation method of printing reduces
wastes.”
“The best thing is that digitally printed
sublimated polyester both can be washed and then tumble-dried in a
low-temperature setting. This is another reason to choose polyester”, she
concludes. The trade show display printing market will
continue to depend on polyester. As more trade fairs are organised, the demand
for the fabric will escalate.