Digital printing has been changing the face of the textile printing industry for some time now. With the technologies improving so rapidly, and established and new entrants stepping in, more designers and manufacturers are able to embrace the advantages of digitally printing their fabrics.
There is no doubt that the industry is burgeoning – inkjet printing of textiles has doubled in market value worldwide since 2013. Numbers aside, as designers we’ve been seeing a categoric increase of representation of digital printing within the community as well, both nationally and internationally. Innovation, new techniques, designs that were previously only thought of – we’re seeing so much happening in this sector as it grows.
Digital printing is such an exciting development in the textile and home decor industry because of the sheer volume of opportunities it opens up. Customization of a fabric for a home becomes that much easier with digital printing, as it allows for smaller quantities to be printed cost-effectively. Sampling, prototyping and experimentation is also easier, giving designers more flexibility to create. Unlike traditional printing, which is limited in terms of the range of colour that can be used, digital printing allows for an almost unlimited array of colours that allows you to bring your designs to life just as they were imagined. Another big advantage of digital printing is the ability to print a pattern of any size. In effect, with the growth and reach of digitally printing textiles, we’re able to create customized, bespoke art through soft furnishings. A much wider range of creative designs are now achievable in a cost-effective fashion, as digital printing enables a very precise reproduction of fine lines, sharp geometric shapes, strong colours, and micro-patterns.
As we’ve observed time and again, personalization is the trend of our time. While there are those who prefer following the latest styles – which are also changing faster than ever – we’re increasingly seeing people wanting to bring their own touch, their own experiences into their home, through their décor. As far as digital printing of textiles with respect to home furnishing goes, the end consumer is also key to driving its growth. As more people become aware of the opportunities available to them, they seek out designs that they want, rather than choosing from the options physically available in front of them. As a design-forward brand, we are particularly excited by this. With the accuracy, intricacy, and range that that digital printing offers us, we’re able to push the limits of creativity to bring together truly inspired yet functional products that more than meet the needs of our customers.
About the Author
Abhay Jaipuria is a Partner at Vaya Home. He has studied Innovation and Entrepreneurship from Stanford University Graduate School of Business. Earlier he has worked as a Business Analyst. Later Abhay started to work with Universal Textile Mills. Universal Textile Mills make textiles for international brands in Europe, US, South Africa, and Japan. They launched Vaya Home earlier this year for the Indian market. It is a luxury home textile company that curates and produces textiles for home drapery and upholstery.
Growth of Digital Textile Printing
