Irish textile printing and design studio Pixalili has invested in an HP Stitch, opening up ‘new avenues’ while giving its existing customers more choice.

Pixalili depends on digital printing systems to produce bespoke fabrics for designers and Etsy entrepreneurs. The company typically produces short-run or one-off lampshades, deckchairs, table linens and cushion covers, with its own designs also available on items such as upholstery.

Previously, the company 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 into dye sublimation printing on polyester-based materials. The 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.

‘We are really in love with the Stitch,’ said research and development director James Harding. ‘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 each country has its own trends and requirements. ‘Thanks to the HP Stitch we can become a one-stop-shop for existing customers and respond to demands from new buyers and markets,’ Mr Harding explained. ‘This is our first time using dye-sub and it opens up new avenues for us.’