Working with textured fabric creates new printing partnerships

May 1, 2008  |  Features, Graphics

Printing on textured fabrics has introduced a world of new applications. Thanks to the ability to print on non-smooth surfaces with the end result of bright, unified colors and sharp, high-resolution graphics, industries such as exhibition, retail, film, interior design, and fine art reproduction ar…
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Wayfinding attracts sign companies

March 1, 2008  |  Features, Graphics

From high profile sports, to airports and hospitals, sign companies thrive in this niche architectural market. By Jamie Swedberg The word “wayfinding” means exactly what you’d think it might mean: it’s the process people go through when they’re orienting themselves in a…
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The finesse of post-print finishing

March 1, 2008  |  Features, Graphics

Proficiency in post-print finishing is a balance of art and science. By Jeff Sanders with technical assistance provided by Mike Sanders It has often been said that digital fabric printing is 50 percent science and 50 percent art. It is in the area of post-production finishing that this maxim is most…
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Matching fabrics to printers for eco-conscientious customers

March 1, 2008  |  Features, Graphics

Partnerships make for profitability in the recycling loop. By Jon Weingartner and Paul Maddrell There are today a number of fibers used for fabric substrates that can be considered environmentally friendly. The most common ones are bamboo, organic cotton, corn-based fibers, and recycled polyester fi…
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Customized interior markets expand

January 1, 2008  |  Features, Graphics

Can you give your clients what they want, when they want it? By Janet Preus It’s a growing trend. We want what we want when we want it—in our clothing, our music, our coffee, and even our environments. Customization is a permanent element in our day-to-day lives, both at home and at work…
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Being solvent savvy

January 1, 2008  |  Features, Graphics

Solvent inks offer durability and performance for a wide range of applications. By Vince Cahill After the Turkish army ended its siege of Vienna in 1529, it left behind its many magnificently decorated tents with walls depicting gardens and fantastic designs. With that in mind, one can imagine that …
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Choosing the right printer

January 1, 2008  |  Features, Graphics

Understanding the technologies is key to incorporating the right digital printer into your business. By Rick Scrimger According to Boston-based IT Strategies, the market for wide- and grand-format digitally printed fabric graphics is expected to grow from 2,300 printers producing 9 million square fe…
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Finding the right training in the printed graphics industry

January 1, 2008  |  Features, Graphics

Universities, suppliers, and associations provide educational opportunities in an industry where what you need to know is constantly changing. By Lou Dzierzak The skills required to conceive, design, produce, and deliver an award-winning exhibit design, building wrap, or point-of-sale display come f…
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Printed awnings get customers in the door

November 1, 2007  |  Features, Graphics

Printed awnings can portray an image, communicate a message, or create a mood. By Lou Dzierzak Although awnings have welcomed consumers through the doors of America’s small businesses since the Civil War, recent advancements in inks, fabrics, installation techniques, and graphics have created …
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The ins & outs of outdoor fabrics

November 1, 2007  |  Features, Graphics

Advances in fabric engineering and improvements in digital imaging technologies are catalysts for growth. By John Evans The use and application of outdoor fabrics for graphics applications has expanded at what some have called a mind-boggling rate over the last several years. There are a number of r…
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