Reactive Printing vs. Pigment Printing: A Comprehensive Guide

When it comes to printing designs onto fabric, there are many different methods to choose from. Two of the most popular options are reactive printing and pigment printing. But what is the difference between these two methods, and which one is best for your project? In this blog post, we'll break down the key differences between reactive printing and pigment printing, as well as the pros and cons of each method.

What is Reactive Printing?

Reactive printing is a dyeing process that involves printing a dye solution onto fabric using a chemical reaction. The dye reacts with the fibers of the fabric, resulting in a long-lasting, vibrant print. Reactive dyes are highly colorfast, meaning that they won't fade or bleed over time.

Reactive printing is typically used for natural fabrics such as cotton, linen, and silk, and is often used for home decor and fashion garments. At Jersey Print Factory, we specialize in reactive printing on a variety of fabrics. Check out our selection of reactive printed fabrics here.

What is Pigment Printing?

Pigment printing, on the other hand, involves printing a paste made of pigment and a binder onto fabric. The pigment is not absorbed by the fibers of the fabric like a dye, but rather sits on top of the fabric. As a result, pigment prints are less colorfast than reactive prints, but are more resistant to fading and bleeding.

Pigment printing is typically used for synthetic fabrics such as polyester and nylon, and is often used for sportswear and swimwear. 

Reactive Printing vs. Pigment Printing: A Comparison

So, which method is right for your project? Here is a quick comparison of the pros and cons of reactive printing and pigment printing:

• Reactive printing:

  • Pros: highly colorfast, vibrant colors, suitable for natural fabrics
  • Cons: not suitable for synthetic fabrics, may be more expensive

• Pigment printing:

  • Pros: suitable for synthetic fabrics, more resistant to fading and bleeding, may be less expensive
  • Cons: less colorfast, colors may not be as vibrant

In conclusion, the choice between reactive printing and pigment printing will depend on your specific needs and preferences. If you're looking for vibrant, long-lasting prints on natural fabrics, reactive printing may be the way to go. But if you're working with synthetic fabrics and need a more budget-friendly option, pigment printing could be the right choice.

No matter which printing method you choose, Jersey Print Factory is here to help bring your vision to life. Contact us today to learn more about our reactive printing services and get started on your next project.