Digital printing is the process to transfer a digital image directly onto fabrics or other materials. It has been applied across various industries, including the canopy tents field.
But you probably don’t know how digital printing works, as few canopy companies tell about it on their websites. That is why we created this guide.
In this article, we will cover the important aspects you need to know about digital printing.
Keep reading to have a full understanding of this printing technology! Meantime, learn about how it works at Westshade!
What is digital printing?
Digital printing is a method of printing digital images directly onto a variety of materials. These materials include paper, cardboard, glass, metal, canvas, polyester, PVC, and so on.
There are usually two types of printing machines used for digital printing, that is, inkjet printer and laser printer. Inkjet printers can produce more vibrant colors and they are well-suited for printing high quality images or graphs. Laser printers, on the other hand, excel at printing clear and sharp images or texts. (Therefore, we choose to use inkjet printers for digital printing. )
How does digital printing work?
Digital printing is a pretty simple printing method. It typically works like this:
1. Prepare digital files
Prepare the digital file that includes the images, texts, or graphs. The file formats can be PDF, JPG, PNG, etc.
2. Send the file to the printer
In this step, the digital file is sent from the computer or phone to the inkjet printer.
3. The inkjet printer works to print the image
The inkjet printer uses a print head to spray tiny ink droplets directly onto the material. The placement and size of these droplets are precisely controlled to ensure high-quality outputs.
4. Heat cure the print
Apply heat to the printed material to cure the ink. This helps the colors remain vibrant and the print maintains its integrity over time.
5. Add a finish to the surface of the fabric
After the print is cured, a finish is applied to the surface of the fabric. The finish can provide additional protection against UV rays, moisture, and scratches. It also enhances the visual appeal of the print.
Advantages of digital printing
Digital printing comes with various advantages. Some outstanding advantages include as following.
Premium printing material
We employ high quality 425 gsm PVC material for digital printing. This fabric is fire retardant, water resistant, and UV-proof. After printing the image, we add a layer of coating to the PVC surface. So the PVC fabric is more glossy, more wear resistant, and durable.
Fit for various colors
Digital printing supports a wide range of colors except for Pantone colors. In addition, the printed vivid color is not easy to fade. It typically can last for 1 to 2 years.
High quality & precise prints
Digital printing offers a great way to bring your idea to life. It allows you to put your logo, brand, company name, graphs, or other marketing messages onto your canopy tent. As an advanced printing technology, it can reproduce high quality outputs. The print is sharp and precise as it is in your digital file.
Digital printing vs dye sublimation
Dye sublimation is the method that transfers the print onto a transfer paper before heat press it onto the fabric. During this process, the heat causes the ink to turn into gas, which penetrates the fabric. As a result, the custom canopy tent has a vivid and long-lasting print.
Compared with dye sublimation, digital printing only allows the reproduction of prints on the material surface. So the print may easily fade over time. Luckily, all Westshade’s custom canopies add a finish to make up for that. With the finish, the colors can last for a longer time than dye sublimation. And the PVC fabric becomes more wear-resistant.
Digital printing vs UV printing
Both printing technologies can provide vibrant prints. However, unlike digital printing, UV printing uses ultraviolet light to cure or dry the ink directly on the polyester. The colors tend to last for a longer time without fading.
Customize your canopy with digital printing at Westshade
Now you have known the definition, process, and benefits of digital printing.
Want to customize your branded tent with this printing method?
The custom process with Westshade is straightforward. It only involves 4 steps.
Step 1. Select the canopy tent you want to customize
Step 2. Select the size, frame material, package, and accessory
Step 3. Upload your logo & design
Step 4. Confirm the mockup from our printing team
High quality materialPremium material
Free design service
Professional printing methodsExpert print techniques
Fast turnaround timesFast turnaround timeAs a professional canopy company, we are committed to providing you with the best custom experience. All our pop up canopies are made from high-quality materials that are fire-retardant, waterproof, and durable. No matter which size you choose, we offer various customization options. You can add your logo, brand, slogan, graphics, or other marketing texts, and choose any color you like. With advanced printing technologies, we can print your tent exactly as you envision it.
For new customers at Westshade, we offer a 10% discount on your first purchase, which also applies to your second order. Additionally, with each canopy purchase, we include 3 to 4 complimentary gifts valued between $136 and $280.
Claim the discount and customize your unique canopy now!
