The digital print approach offers tremendous capabilities in terms of color and image detail. This capability is a direct result of the process color printing approach that exists within the digital environment. Similar to desk top color printers, textile machines are typically arranged with a master set of hues that are applied as droplets of ink to the surface of the substrate. The specific combination of ink droplets determines the color effect created. In this 'mix on the fly' world, it is possible to achieve photo-realistic imagery, continuous tone, and a high level of imagery detail.

While most desktop printers use a CMYK (cyan, magenta, yellow and black) combination, textile printers typically use between 6 and 12 hues that are specially formulated for the unique requirements of textile substrates. Most color sets include black, yellow, cyan (turquoise), magenta (red), orange, and blue. Some print systems also utilize diluted values of black (grey), turquoise and red in order to achieve smooth tonal gradations and minimize the appearance of dithering that is particularly apparent in the neutral range.

The process color approach is fundamentally different than the 'spot color' approach utilized for most screen printing applications. In the screen print environment, images must be color reduced and separated so that each color in the design corresponds to a 'screen' or 'stencil'. Each color is carefully mixed for the design and colorway and applied as a single 'spot color'. While the screen print method offers great color accuracy and brilliance, it often requires interpretation of original painted or photographed artwork and does not allow quick change of color combination or image detail.

In contrast, process color printing offers great flexibility, quick change to color and design, and minimal requirements in terms of image preparation. Artists and designers often find great value in the ability to accurately reproduce their artwork and manufacturers and product developers are interested in the ability to quickly obtain printed fabric while bypassing the screen making process.

Visit the Software page to learn more about the relationship between digital print software and color output.