With rise in global digital textile printing market expected at 18.29 percent CAGR between 2017 and 2021, use of polyester is likely to grow, as 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.

The digital printing experts have endorsed polyester has most eligible synthetic material.

According to Priscilla Wilson, principal director, Exhibit Express, polyester owing to its high durability, resistance and strength bettered by low shrinkage and colour fastness is preferred for digital textile printing. Being sensitive to heat, polyester can be manipulated effortlessly with high temperature and pressure to create permanent pleats and laser cuts.

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 tradeshow booths.

Talking about the best method to print on polyester, Wilson said that ordinary dyes cannot alter the colour of polyester due to its high stain-resistance. They need disperse dyes to create the expected results. To minimise dye migration, they 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. The demand for polyester fabric will increase with printing market continuing to depend on polyester.