Printed towels have designs applied to the fabric surface using printing techniques - as opposed to colour being dyed into fibres or woven into the structure.
How It Works
Printing methods include: - Screen printing: Ink pushed through mesh - Digital printing: Direct inkjet application - Rotary printing: Continuous roll printing - Transfer printing: Heat-applied designs
Characteristics
Advantages: - Complex designs possible - Photographic images - Low-cost patterns - Quick design changes
Disadvantages: - May fade/crack over time - Surface-only colour - Can affect feel - Less durable than dyed
Common For
- Beach towels (graphic designs)
- Children's towels (characters)
- Novelty/gift towels
- Promotional items
Printed vs Dyed
| Printed | Dyed |
|---|---|
| Surface colour | Colour throughout |
| Can crack/peel | Won't crack |
| Complex designs | Simpler designs |
| May fade faster | More colourfast |
Related Terms
- Yarn-dyed - Woven colour
- Piece-dyed - Dyed throughout
- Velour - Better print surface