How Custom Fabric Printing Works: “From Idea to Fabric – Your Designs Printed!”
Have you ever imagined creating a fabric that’s completely your own? Whether you’re a fashion designer, a DIY enthusiast, or someone looking to personalise home decor, custom fabric printing opens up endless possibilities! In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the process of how custom fabric printing works—from bringing your ideas to life, to receiving your very own printed fabric. It’s easier than you think!
Step 1: Inspiration and Designing
The journey begins with your creative vision. Maybe you’ve sketched out a pattern, found a colour palette you love, or even have a unique graphic you want to turn into fabric. Whatever your starting point, your creativity is the foundation of the project.
Creating a digital file for fabric printing is a relatively simple process, but there are some key steps to follow to ensure that your design turns out perfectly when printed on fabric.
- Choose Software: We recommend using design software like Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop.
- Artwork Repeat: There are many different ways that you can create a repeating design. Some popular choices are full drop, half drop and mirror. You can also create your design as a placement prints!
- Resolution: We recommend using 300 DPI for high-quality prints. (keep in mind that the lower the DPI, the lower the quality of your design)
- Save Your Design: Save in formats like JPG, TIFF, PDF, or AI depending on your design type and ordering method.
For more information on our artwork file requirements, check out our Artwork Requirements & Setup page online, to make sure your designs are set up just how they need to be! https://www.digitalfabrics.com.au/how-it-works/artwork-requirements/
Step 2: Choosing the Right Fabric
Custom fabric printing isn’t “one-size-fits-all.” Different projects call for different materials—whether you’re designing a cozy pillow cover, a bold fashion statement, or a special event banner. You’ll want to choose a fabric type that works with your design’s purpose.
- Cotton Poplin, Poppy, Aerocorp: Soft and breathable—great for apparel and accessories.
- Waratah, Oxford, Cooper: Sturdy and durable—perfect for bags, upholstery, and heavy-duty projects.
- Luna, Dilly: Ideal for high-gloss or vibrant prints, often used in fashion or decor.
- Cotton Linen, Cotton Drill: highly absorbent and durable for tea towels and table linen.
- Eco Vesna Lycra: Even four-way stretch, wicking properties, chlorine rating of 4-5 + a UPF rating of 50 – the best choice for swimwear and activewear.
When you work with our service, we offer a variety of fabric print base options so you can select to perfectly match your design. Check out our full range of fabric print bases.
Step 3: Upload Your Design
Once you have your design ready and the fabric chosen, it’s time to upload your file. With modern printing technology, custom fabric printing is a breeze. Digital Fabrics Online Uploader allows you to order your own custom fabric in minutes. Simply upload your file, check your size, choose your repeat and choose your fabric type.
Pro Tip: Take some time to review your design in the preview tool before confirming the order. This is how it will be printed.
Step 4: The Printing Process
Once your order is placed, it’s time for the magic to happen! Using cutting-edge digital fabric printing techniques like sublimation or direct-to-fabric (DTF) printing, we transfer your design onto your fabric with exceptional detail and colour fidelity. This step usually takes a minimum of 5 business days, but we also have an express turnaround available for anyone needing something more urgent!
Fun Fact: The printing process is eco-friendly! Many of the inks used today are water-based and free from harmful chemicals, ensuring your fabric is as safe for the planet as it is for your creative project.
Step 5: Receiving Your Fabric
The big moment has arrived—your custom fabric is ready to shine! After printing, your fabric is carefully packaged and shipped to you. Whether it’s a small swatch or a full roll, your fabric arrives ready for you to cut, sew, and create.
And that’s how custom fabric printing works—from your imagination to the fabric in your hands! It’s a simple yet incredibly rewarding process that lets you bring your creative ideas to life in a whole new way. Whether you’re designing for a business, a special event, or just for fun, custom fabric printing is the ultimate tool to make your visions a reality.
Ready to get started? Head on over to our Online Uploader to order now!
We’re here to help you with every step, from choosing your fabric to printing your perfect design!