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This paper considers the influence of multiple ink jet printed layers and woven fabric thread count on the colour fastness to washing of printed polyester textile products. The goal was to investigate the possibility for optimisation of the number of ink layers and thread count in order to increase print quality and colour fastness to washing. Materials with the same composition and different thread counts were printed ranging from one to five ink layers. The samples were subjected to washing process after which colour fastness was examined according to appropriate standards. The colour fastness was judged subjectively by trained professionals using the standard grey scale, and objectively using spectrophotometric measurements, with calculation of colour differences caused by the washing. Surface changes were observed using SEM analysis. Results indicate that multiple layer printing gives more saturated colour due to better ink coverage, but on the other hand it enhances the ink wash-out effect. The research suggests the possibility of optimising the number of ink layers in relation to thread count number when print quality and colour fastness to washing is the objective. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Textile printing can be defined as the process of transferring ink to the textile substrates by using specific printing technique and machines. The most suitable techniques for textile substrates printing are: screen printing, digital ink-jet printing or usage of thermal transfer processes. In the past and today the most popular textile printing technique is a screen printing, with its advantages in terms of total costs and productivity, as well as simplicity and speed in high printing volumes. Also, screen printing machines usually cost less compared to the other printing techniques machines. On the other hand, digital ink jet textile printing offers higher printing speed of short runs, flexibility, creativity and environmental benefits. In addition, it is important to note that using digital printing techniques enables better visual effects, as well as wider flexibility of print formats. Besides that, it offers better control of print quality uniformity during the production runs. The aim of this paper is to compare these two techniques and to predict future developments in this field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]