Pixalili says its ability to add decoration to polyester fabrics on demand - thanks to its new HP Stitch - 'opens up new avenues' while giving its existing customers more choice.
Located on the scenic Wild Atlantic Way on the west coast of Ireland, Pixalili is a textile printing and design studio which depends on digital printing systems to produce bespoke fabrics for designers and Etsy entrepreneurs. Pixalili typically produces short runs or one-offs of lampshades, deckchairs, table linen and cushion covers, with its own designs also available on items such as upholstery - showcased each summer at its own pop-up shop.
Formerly, Pixalili was only able to offer designs printed on natural fabrics such as linen, cotton and bamboo. With growing demand for products such as velvet cushions, chiffon scarves and stretch jersey for baby clothes, the business decided to look at dye-sublimation, a compatible technology for these polyester materials.
The Pixalili team attended print industry events in Germany and the UK to explore the options for dye-sublimation, finally choosing the HP Stitch S300 after seeing a demonstration at The Print Show in September 2019 by HP supplier RA Smart. HP Stitch dye-sublimation printers deliver super-fast and predictable colour matching either via transfer or direct-to-fabric methods from one single device, with a range of compatible applications including sportswear, fashion, interior decor and soft signage. Its smart technology for unattended printing, exceptional quality of print and easy self-maintenance made it the perfect choice for Pixalili.
"We are really in love with the Stitch," comments James Harding, Pixalili's R&D Director, following the installation of the HP Stitch S300 in autumn 2019. "We sent samples to valued customers to show them what we can now offer and the response has been fantastic. We can see the Stitch being very, very busy."
Pixalili has customers from across the world and James says each country has its own trends and requirements. For example, customers in Iceland are looking for ethically made and eco-friendly products, while the USA and Ireland have a preference for linen, and in Spain polyester fabrics for swimwear are popular.
"Thanks to the HP Stitch we can become a one-stop-shop for existing customers and respond to demands from new buyers and markets," he says. "This is our first time using dye-sub and it opens up new avenues for us."
James Harding also praised supplier RA Smart. "Their customer support is brilliant. They are always at the other end of the phone to talk you through any queries," he says. "The technician who provided the training was also excellent - very patient and made sure we all understood how to use this new system."
The R&D Director says Pixalili has an eye to the future and possibly planning to upgrade to the larger HP Stitch S500 or S1000 models in the future.
"We'll look at anything new to develop the range for our customers," he says.
For more information on Pixalili, please visit: https://pixalili.com/
To find out more about HP Stitch sublimation printing, click here.
