34 email: editor@signlink.co.uk Issue 263 - February | March 2026 promotions consistently command higher margins due to perceived value. “Personalised names, numbers, and limited designs allow printers to charge more without increasing production complexity,” he says, adding: “Corporate uniform is another fast-growing area, driven by branding consistency and ongoing repeat orders. Workwear, hospitality, and service industries all require durable, high-quality decoration delivered reliably. “Printers which can offer fast sampling, consistent colour, and scalable production are well placed to win this work. The key is targeting applications where flexibility and turnaround matter more than ultra-high volumes.” Switching attention to technology and investment, Marsh says a quality printer is defined by consistency, reliability, and intelligent ink management. In DTF printing, he says a circulation and stirring system is critical, even when using low-sediment inks, as it prevents pigment separation and ensures stable colour output. This directly impacts print quality, maintenance cycles, and long-term running costs, with Marsh saying advanced systems should continue protecting ink integrity even when the printer is idle. “3D patch printing is currently one of the most in-demand DTF applications, offering a modern alternative to traditional silicone patches,” Marsh says, adding: “It delivers texture, depth, and impact without tooling or setup fees, making it ideal for short runs and variable data. Multi-colour designs can be produced easily, opening creative possibilities that were previously impractical or expensive. “Faux embroidery is another popular application, produced on the same 3D system using a different substrate. This gives the visual effect of stitching with the speed and flexibility of print. For brands and decorators, these solutions combine premium aesthetics with commercial efficiency, allowing them to upsell high-value finishes while keeping production simple and scalable.” Evolving Market Next up is Phil McMullin, head of sales for Epson UK, who says that both customisation and personalisation are still a growth business and the demand for unique garments is a big part of this. As for where specific demand lies, McMullin says while in the past, this was mainly for the decoration of cotton garments, as the range of man-made technical fabrics has expanded, this has extended to clothing used for practical purposes “Printing technology has also evolved so GARMENT PRINTERS | ROB FLETCHER Before modern screen and digital printing, designs were printed onto fabric using wooden blocks carved by hand Factoid Many customers are already sourcing printed garments elsewhere, which means the demand is proven and the opportunity is there ▼According to Resolute, 3D patch printing is currently one of the most in-demand DTF applications
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