In recent months, many brands have asked us the same thing: a fabric that has character even in the touch, not just in the design. That’s why we’ve expanded the processes we oversee directly in the Como district. Today, we’re presenting them in four dedicated pages, detailing the process, suitable fabrics, and answers to frequently asked questions.
1. High-definition digital printing
Digital printing allows for photographic detail, seamless gradations, and limitless colors, without the setup costs of screens. But true high definition doesn’t depend on the machine alone: fabric preparation, the ink chosen for each fiber (acid for silk, reactive for viscose and cotton, disperse for polyester), steaming, and washing are also important. For this reason, each design undergoes a color proof on the final base, and each batch is compared with the approved proof before shipping.
Discover high-definition digital printing →
2. Pigment printing
With pigment printing, the color is fixed to the surface with a binder and heat, without steaming or final washing. The result is a matte, textured color, ideal on linen, cotton, and blends, with lower water consumption. It’s the perfect technique for collections with a natural or vintage feel, especially when combined with a washed finish.
Discover pigment printing →
3. Double-sided printing
On twill, crepe satin, and satin, the reverse side of a single print remains lighter. When the reverse side is visible, as on a scarf, stole, or unlined garment, we print both sides in register: with the same design, for a solid fabric on both sides, or with two different designs for a truly reversible product.
Discover double-sided printing →
4. Sandwashed Finish
Sandwashed is a mechanical wash that dulls the sheen and gives the fabric a peachy sheen and a smoother drape. On silk, it transforms a shiny satin into a matte, chalky surface, typical of contemporary luxury shirts and dresses. Before production, we always do a test to measure weight loss, shrinkage, and color variation.
How to choose the right process
A few quick tips, always check with a test on your fabric:
Detailed or photographic designs on silk: digital printing with acid inks.
A natural look on linen and cotton: pigment printing, perhaps followed by sandwashing.
Scarves and garments with the reverse side exposed: double-sided printing.
Matte, soft, and fluid silk: dyed or printed, then sandwashed.
We work without minimum orders, so you can start with just a few meters or a test.
Let’s talk
Do you have a project in mind? Send us your drawing, base, and approximate quantities: we’ll get back to you with feasibility and pricing. Contact us via the Contact page, or WhatsApp us at +39 339 344 0272 or silklabitaly@gmail.com.
All our work is listed on the Work page.