Print Processes

We have a mixture of different print processes which are tailored to work with specific materials. See more information below about how they work.

  • HP Latex Roll-to-Roll Printing

    Overview: Eco-friendly water-based latex inks deliver vibrant, durable prints with excellent scratch resistance and no solvent odor. Prints are suitable for both indoor and outdoor use with excellent UV and weather resistance. The instant-dry technology enables same-day turnaround without waiting for outgassing.

    How It Works: The HP Latex system uses water-based latex inks combined with a multi-stage heating process. Ink droplets are fired onto the media as it passes through the printer, then immediately enter heated zones where the water evaporates and latex polymer particles fuse together, forming a durable, flexible print layer. The curing process happens in-machine, meaning prints emerge dry, cured, and ready for immediate finishing- no outgassing required.

    Popular Products:

    • PVC and Mesh Banners
    • Double Sided Banners
    • Wallpaper
    • Self Adhesive Vinyls
    • Poster Materials

     

  • HP Latex Flatbed Printing

    Overview: Direct-to-substrate printing eliminates the mounting process entirely. The latex ink bonds directly to the material surface, creating a durable, scratch-resistant finish. Ideal for rigid signage where speed and cost-efficiency are priorities.

    How It WorksThe material passes through the printer in the same way as a roll to roll printer, but with the use of tables either side, and specifically configured inks, flat sheets can be printed, as well as rolls. The same water-based latex ink technology is used, but the system is engineered to handle rigid, uneven, or thick materials. It also includes the option of white ink which can be used on precoloured sheets, clear sheets and clear roll materials. There is a heating module that the material passes through after printing which dries it instantly, allowing for immediate handling.

    Popular Products:

    • Foamex
    • Cardboard
    • Correx
    • Oppboga
  • HP Latex Print & Mount

    Overview: Self adhesive vinyl is printed using latex ink, laminated and then mounted to a sheet. This opens up the options of different finishes using laminates, and has extra durability compared to printing direct.

    How It Works: The HP Latex system uses water-based latex inks combined with a multi-stage heating process. Ink droplets are fired onto the self adhesive vinyl as it passes through the printer, then immediately enter heated zones where the water evaporates and latex polymer particles fuse together, forming a durable, flexible print layer. The curing process happens in-machine, meaning prints emerge dry, cured, and ready for immediate finishing—no outgassing required. The vinyl is then laminated, and mounted to the sheet, ready for cutting.

    Popular Products:

    • Foamex
    • Dibond
  • Direct-On Dye Sublimation

    Overview:  Single-step printing directly onto polyester fabrics offers faster production than paper transfer sublimation with identical vibrant, permanent results. The elimination of transfer paper reduces material costs and production time, making it ideal for high-volume fabric projects.

    How It Works: This process eliminates the transfer paper stage entirely by printing sublimation inks directly onto specially coated polyester fabric. The fabric has a receptive coating that accepts the sublimation ink. After printing, the fabric passes through an inline heated calendar system where the sublimation process occurs—the dyes sublimate from their printed position on the coating directly into the polyester fibers beneath. This single-pass system significantly reduces production time while maintaining the same permanent, vibrant results.

    Popular Products:

    • Flags
    • Stretch fabrics
    • Tablecloths
    • Blockout fabrics
  • Paper Transfer Dye Sublimation

    Overview: Produces vibrant, permanent prints that become part of the fabric itself rather than sitting on the surface

    How It Works: Dye sublimation is a two-stage heat transfer process. Special sublimation inks are first printed onto transfer paper in reverse/mirror image. The printed paper is then placed against polyester fabric and run through a heat press or calendar system. Under heat (typically 180-210°C) and pressure, the solid dye particles sublimate—transforming directly from solid to gas without becoming liquid—and penetrate deep into the polyester fibers. As the fabric cools, the gas reverts to solid form, now permanently embedded within the fiber structure itself.

    Popular Products:

    • Lycra polyester
    • Lightbox fabrics

Need help with your next project or have a technical question?

Our dedicated account managers are ready to help - whether you need advice on print processes, a fast quote, or support with complex requirements.