Fabric Graphics Association - Application Methods

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Application Methods

A variety of methods are used to apply graphics to fabric.

Heat Transfer – images are baked into fabric using a large vacuum. It is very exact, creating bold color separation. However, it doesn’t blend colors well.

Ink-jet printing – produces photographic quality images on nearly any material using a computer scanner. The images are rich and detailed, but the inks have a limited outdoor life span unless top-coated.

Silkscreening/screenprinting – a process that transfers graphics onto another material using special screens. Ink is spread over the top o9f the screen and printed on the fabric face.

Applique – letters and forms are cut from fabric and sewn on to the base fabric. When the letters are cut out of the fabric and replaced by different-colored fabric, they are called “cut-out letters.”

Dye sublimation – The basic inkjet dye sublimation process uses a heat sensitive sublimation dye, dissolved in a liquid, to print graphics and text onto special inkjet paper. This is called a dye sub transfer. The dye sub transfer and a sublimatable item are then placed into a heat press. hen the heating cycle is completed, the image on the paper has been transferred to the fabric and has actually become a part of the surface.

News/Events

Sustainability Partner - Fabric Graphics Association

As a member of the Fabric Graphics Association, a division of the Indusrial Fabrics Association International, we are committed to supporting sustainable business practices of the textile and graphics industry.

We encourage the understanding and implementation of environmentally, socially and economically resposnible programs that support the growth of its member companies.

We work with manufacturers and suppliers to promote products that are environmentally friendly.

We encourage our members to adopt practices that conserve resources and energy in their processes as well as minimize the use of harmful chemicals.

We encourage members to design their products to lower the use of energy throughout the life span of the product.

We encourage members to look for opportunities to apply sustainable practices throughout their entire organizations not just on the plant floor.

Sincerely,

Tony Schmitt, Optima Graphics

Fabric Graphics Association Chairman