Printing Industry Commentary & Analysis

Driving Innovation and Sustainability: Key Takeaways from the Fashion Network Ecommerce Summit 2024

Published November 14, 2024

In this article, compliments of textiles expert and WhatTheyThink contributor Debbie McKeegan, she highlights the recent Fashion Ecommerce Summit 2024 which took place in Manchester, UK. She notes that the ecommerce sector, including fashion, is poised on the brink of significant expansion and summarizes some of the interesting presentations delivered at the event.

Key Insights and Five Stand-Out DTF Digital Print Solutions for The Garment Decoration Industry

Published November 7, 2024

Have you been thinking about getting into direct to film (DTF)? It’s certainly been a hot topic at shows this year! In this article, compliments of textiles expert and WhatTheyThink contributor Debbie McKeegan, you’ll find valuable insight, including how this technology is poised to disrupt Direct to Garment and screen printing for many applications. She also provides links to some of the suppliers to the industry who offer DTF solutions.

The Future of Printing: A Conversation with Ford Bowers, President and CEO of the PRINTING United Alliance

Published October 17, 2024

As technological advancements redefine the status quo, it becomes essential for enterprises to not just adapt but anticipate the changes on the horizon. Ford Bowers, President and CEO of the PRINTING United Alliance, underscored this in a recent interview with Texintel CEO and WhatTheyThink contributor, Debbie McKeegan at PRINTING United in Las Vegas.

Innovation Spotlight: De Montfort University Unveils Scalable Textile Technologies to Enable Circularity

Published October 10, 2024

Future Fabrics Expo in the UK featured more than 10,000 different textiles and solutions on display for the fashion industry to exploit innovation in sustainable materials and the transition toward circularity. Read more in this article compliments of textiles expert and WhatTheyThink contributor Debbie McKeegan.

Tech Highlight: The “Magnificent Seven”—Memorable Tech Takeaways from PRINTING United, Las Vegas 2024

Published October 3, 2024

In this article, textiles expert and WhatTheyThink contributor Debbie McKeegan highlights what she calls the “Magnificent Seven” after sifting through the plethora of new products and technologies that were on display at PRINTING United 2024.

How Smart Manufacturing Will Change Fashion, the Textile Industry, and the Future of Retail

Published September 19, 2024

According to textiles expert and WhatTheyThink contributor Debbie McKeegan, rewiring the entire apparel supply chain is underway but progress is slow and painfully incremental—and must accelerate if the industry is to make positive environmental change. In this article, first published on Pixel to Parcel, McKeegan explains how smart manufacturing in the textile industry can help accelerate this much-needed transformation.

Tech Highlight: Nine Digital Textile Printing Workflow Software Solutions for Accuracy, Efficiency, Speed, and Profitability

Published September 12, 2024

Looking for tools and solutions to increase efficiency and quality in textile printing? Look no further. Textiles expert and WhatTheyThink contributor Debbie McKeegan highlights nine software solutions that cater to the needs of digital textile print providers of all sizes, delivering tailored solutions to boost productivity, streamline workflows, and elevate profitability.

Unleashing the Potential of Fabric Design Through Advanced Dye-Sublimation Innovation: Meet Colourama

Published July 18, 2024

Colourama, a Polish textile printing firm, hosts a production volume of 12,000 to 15,000 linear meters of printed textile daily. Its diversified operations span an in-house design studio creating exclusive design collections for global distribution. Textile expert and WhatTheyThink contributor Debbie McKeegan explains more about the business and its road to success.

Exploring the Fashion Biome: Key Stakeholders Discuss Manufacturing, Sustainability, and Technology

Published July 11, 2024

Recently, textiles expert and WhatTheyThink contributor Debbie McKeegan hosted a round table discussion to explore the Fashion Biome with guests from various tiers of the supply chain. Central to the conversation was the urgent need for the adoption of sustainable technologies within the Fashion industry. Through a deep dive into environmental best practices, legislation impacts, supply chain transformation, and the promise of collaboration, the group outlined the future path fashion must tread. This important conversation is summarized here, and the article also contains a video link to the full round table discussion.

Pushing the Boundaries of EPR Responsibility for Textiles: New Report From The Ellen Macarthur Foundation

Published June 27, 2024

Today, we are sharing an article compliments of textiles expert and WhatTheyThink contributor Debbie McKeegan about a new report from the Ellen McArthur Foundation. The report states: “Policy alone cannot solve the problem of textile waste. Voluntary business action, including the establishment of voluntary EPR schemes, are key to accelerate progress.” McKeegan explains what EPR (extended producer responsibility) schemes are and why we need them as well as what is wrong with the current system.

Epson Design Awards 2024: A Creative Celebration of Inclusivity, Sustainability, and Innovation

Published June 13, 2024

The 2024 Epson Design Awards honored outstanding creativity, unity, and progressive thinking in fashion design across the Benelux region. With inclusivity and diversity at the forefront, designers from various backgrounds converged to showcase their talents and ingenuity in a celebration of artistry and innovation. Debbie McKeegan looks at this year’s winners.

Market Shifts and the Impact of Behaviors/Trends on the Future of Print

Published May 16, 2024

In this article, textiles expert and WhatTheyThink contributor Debbie McKeegan shares insights she gained from Kristine Go, founder of Pattern Curator—a Print forecasting and design service concept based in New Jersey. This includes macro trends in fashion design, sustainability, and socioeconomic and technological trends.

Creative Collaboration and Industry Highlights from London Design Week 2024

Published May 2, 2024

London Design Week 2024, held at the iconic Chelsea Harbour, is an event filled with innovative, fresh ideas for textiles, wallcoverings, lighting and flooring, furniture and beyond. It's a chance for designers to showcase their work to a broad audience and to especially feature sustainable designs. Debbie McKeegan, textiles expert and WhatTheyThink contributor, explains.

Technology Review: Sustainable Innovations at FESPA Amsterdam 2024—Pioneering Eco-Conscious Print Solutions

Published April 15, 2024

FESPA Amsterdam 2024 displayed a marked emphasis on sustainability and eco-innovation, further highlighting a significant pivot in the industry’s trajectory. So says textiles expert and WhatTheyThink contributor Debbie McKeegan in this review of the technology on display at the show.

Print & Embellishment: Print Logistic Is Unleashing the Power of Coloreel Embroidery Technology

Published March 18, 2024

Many companies prefer the quality of embroidery for apparel and other items over various print technologies. But as logos and other decorations get more complicated, it can be difficult to reproduce them with conventional embroidery equipment. Enter Coloreel, on-demand dyeing of thread that enables production of even the most complex designs using a single embroidery head! In this article, provided compliments of textiles expert and WhatTheyThink contributor Debbie McKeegan, read the Print Logistic story as it proudly unveils this cutting-edge technology that is reshaping textile decoration.

The Evolving Roles and Responsibilities of the Textile Designer in a Changing Industry

Published January 25, 2024

In a world where business dynamics are changing in so many industries, textiles is certainly not immune. In this interview with Fulvio Alvisi, President of the Italian Textile Designers Association, provided compliments of textiles expert and WhatTheyThink contributor Debbie McKeegan, he discusses both the opportunities and challenges for future textile designers.

Market Shifts and Emerging Trends Driving Change for the Print and Textile Community

Published January 18, 2024

In her latest article, textiles expert and WhatTheyThink contributor Debbie McKeegan points out that global events and shifting consumer behaviors continue to upend traditional business models across the supply chain. Whether technical or strategic—the textile industry must adapt and invest to minimize risk and reap the commercial benefits of technology. Only then can it strategically meet market demands and adapt at speed to address shifting consumer behaviors. Sustainability, supply chain volatility, consumer preferences, artificial intelligence and localized economic instability are all factors she discusses here.

Why Additive 3D Manufacturing Offers Fashion a New Future for Printed Apparel

Published January 11, 2024

Direct -to-Textile 3D empowers the creator economy and unleashes new commercial opportunities for customization and personalization, according to textiles expert and WhatTheyThink contributor Debbie McKeegan, as she explains in this article, first published on Pixel to Parcel and featuring fashion designer Yanky & Nataf.

Connecting the Dots of Digital Fashion from Design to Production: The Digital Imperative

Published November 16, 2023

As e-commerce growth retains its vertical assent, the web has spawned new territories and new technologies, each offering in their own way, significant economic opportunity for fashion designers and retailers. Not the least of these is manufacturing on demand, which is already a keystone in many other industries. In this article, compliments of textiles expert and WhatTheyThink contributor Debbie McKeegan, originally published on Pixel to Parcel, the road to a more sustainable fashion future, from design to production, is laid out.

Nurturing the Next Generation: Green Grads Highlights Innovations for Environmental Success

Published October 26, 2023

In this article, textiles expert and WhatTheyThink contributor brings us the latest news on the Green Grads program. Green Grads celebrates emerging talent from across the country (UK) and focuses on environmental balance and sustainability. It champions innovation, new ideas and concepts that encourage and deliver environmental change. It positions younger entrants into the textiles and apparel industry to present even more innovation in apparel design, helping the industry move towards a more sustainable future.

Printed Sewn Apparel On-Demand—An Interview with the Founders of Print Logistic

Published October 19, 2023

In many parts of the developed world, re-shoring of the apparel industry is hindered by the lack of sewing talent. But the good news is that talented cut-and-sew shops are popping up all over North America and Europe. In this article, compliments of textiles expert and WhatTheyThink contributor Debbie McKeegan, she interviews the Founders of Print Logistics, a Polish provider of printed sewn apparel on demand.

Pushing the Boundaries of Luxury Wallcoverings, Emiliana Parati Invests in Epson Technology

Published September 28, 2023

Digital printing has been a boon for efforts to make textiles and apparel, including home decor, more sustainable. And with both businesses and consumers looking for interior decor options, customized wall coverings are gaining popularity as well. In this article, compliments of Debbie McKeegan, textiles expert and WhatTheyThink contributor, she profiles Italian company Emiliana Parati, based in the province of Cremona and in business for almost half a century, with a focus on how they have integrated digital printing into the mix.

Discover Print Logistic Customizers—Groundbreaking Tools Designed to Revolutionize Apparel

Published September 21, 2023

In the world of e-commerce, providing exceptional and personalized shopping experiences has become a must. Once, personalized offerings, intuitive user experience, and seamless returns were the hallmarks of a standout online store. Now, they are the expectations of modern consumers. In this space, we’ve written a great deal about personalized, customized and on-demand production of textiles and apparel to meet these consumer demands. In this article, compliments of textiles expert and WhatTheyThink contributor Debbie McKeegan, we take it a step further—giving consumers even more power to customize their own designs, and avoid the increasingly undesirable requirement to purchase mass-produced clothing.

What Are You Printing Onto? The Fibers of the Future Unspun

Published September 7, 2023

The Alpha generation (2013–2025) is acutely aware of the environmental crisis. Climate change will have catastrophic consequences within their lifetime. Influenced by their millennial parents, this generation will also soon have the power of purchase, and as such, their choices will increasingly inform and make a significant impact on the textile industry. They are born as eco-conscious consumers and will choose and actively source environmentally secure products. This is beginning to drive systemic change in the industry, as pointed out by Debbie McKeegan, textiles expert and WhatTheyThink contributor, in this article originally posted on the Pixel to Parcel blog.

Designing a New Future: The Next Generation Has the Power to Make a Positive Impact

Published August 17, 2023

In this article, originally posted on the Pixel to Parcel blog and provided compliments of textiles expert and WhatTheyThink contributor Debbie McKeegan, the role of the next decade's designer is explained. As a creative, the designer must now onboard a deeper understanding of the product’s components, the manufacturing process, the data and information held within the supply chain, and the final product’s subsequent circularity in order to deliver a product with a defined and credible plan for end-of-life. This will soon be regulatory. Designers should be preparing today for this new focus.

The Digital Textile Market Flourishes as Home Décor and Furnishings Embrace Advanced Printing Technology

Published August 3, 2023

In this article, compliments of textiles expert and WhatTheyThink contributor Debbie McKeegan, she provides an update on digital textile printing via Future Markets research, and also explains why increased interest in custom home and interior décor is poised to further spur market growth for digital textile printing. Digital share for digital textile printing still hovers around 10% of all printed fabric.

ITMA 2023 with Theo Van Bruggen of Optimum Digital

Published August 3, 2023

Debbie McKeegan, Texintel CEO and WhatTheyThink contributor, talks to Theo Van Bruggen of Optimum Digital to discover the latest developments for digitally printed textiles using pigment Inks.

Simplifying the Digital Textile Print Process: Does Wet-On-Wet Print Technology Offer a Gateway to One Step Digital Textile Printing?

Published July 27, 2023

The latest developments in digital textile printing vastly reduce the factory footprint for technology while also reducing (if not removing altogether) the need for ancillary machinery. Wet-on-wet printing is widely recognized as one of the main facilitators in this simplification. WhatTheyThink contributor Debbie McKeegan takes a deep dive into wet-on-wet, one-step textile printing solutions.

Exploring the TexCOL Pigment Solution with Klieverik

Published July 27, 2023

Debbie McKeegan, CEO at Texintel and WhatTheyThink contributor, talks with Jorg Schuurman and Johan Schenke of KLIEVERIK. They explore the Coldenhove TexCOL Pigment transfer solution, discussing applications, market shifts, and the transfer process using TexCOL paper for natural and synthetic fabrics using Klieverik heat-transfer equipment.

Coldenhove Launches the Latest Innovations for Texcol Pigment at ITMA

Published July 24, 2023

Debbie McKeegan, CEO at Texintel and WhatTheyThink contributor, talks to Ron Sportel, Manager, Innovation & Development, and Federica Valente, Marketing Manager, at Coldenhove. Texcol Pigment transfer paper was first launched in 2019 and in this short interview they discuss the latest developments for the product and its applications in 2023.

There Is No Turning Back: ITMA 2023 Marked a Significant Turning Point For Textile Innovation, AI, and Creativity

Published July 20, 2023

This article, complements of textiles expert and WhatTheyThink contributor Debbie McKeegan and the Pixel to Parcel blog, reports that ITMA 2023 in Milan marked a significant turning point for textile innovation, AI, and creativity. In fact, this article was created using AI, with search terms recycling, fashion, and environmental! It covers the need for the textiles and apparel industry to step up its action on reducing its environmental footprint and preparing for an onslaught of regulatory changes over the next few years. Read on!

ITMA 2023 New Developments and Innovations for Transfer Paper with Coldenhove

Published July 20, 2023

Debbie McKeegan, CEO at Texintel and WhatTheyThink contributor, talks to Gijsbert Harmsen, Senior Sales Executive, and Federica Valente, Marketing Manager, at Coldenhove. They discuss the latest innovations recently launched at ITMA for interiors, apparel, and sportswear, as well as market developments and new applications.

ITMA 2023 Simon Daplyn of Sun Chemical on New Innovations and Inks

Published July 17, 2023

Debbie McKeegan, CEO at Texintel and WhatTheyThink contributor, talks with Simon Daplyn of Sun Chemical. They explore new innovations for reactive and pigment formulations, their applications and the market trends, and sustainability objectives driving the latest R&D projects.

Want Pixel-Perfect Prints? Make Color Management a Priority

Published July 13, 2023

In a digital world, many expect color management to be an exact science, a simple and automatic function of the print process—simply place your on-demand order, and voila—your print arrives on time and just as you imagined it. But unfortunately, that’s far from true. In this article, complements of textiles expert and WhatTheyThink contributor Debbie McKeegan and the Pixel to Parcel blog, color management—and how to get it right, first time, every time—are explained.

Digital Certification for the Textile Printer—Latest Developments: The EU Digital Passport and Reborn

Published June 29, 2023

Green-washing, green-wishing, and any terminology in between no longer washes. Consumers are becoming more aware of the damage the textile industry does to the planet. The industry must quickly reevaluate the fashion supply chain. Ethically conscious consumers evaluate their purchase decisions around the sustainability and traceability of the manufactured product. To evaluate the integrity of these products, the consumer must rely on the quality of the certification provided to reinforce their choice. Gone are the days when buzz words like “eco-friendly,” “organic,” and “sustainable” will suffice. See how the EU Digital Product Passport may help in this article compliments of textiles expert and WhatTheyThink contributor Debbie McKeegan.

All Hail the Power of Print: Digital Textile Innovations Abound at ITMA, Milan 2023

Published June 22, 2023

All hail the power of print, for ITMA didn’t disappoint. Packed with innovations at all levels, the show proved to be an incredible success. Visitor numbers reached 111,000 from an impressive 143 countries, and exhibitors peaked at 1,709 spread across an incredible 200,000 square meters of exhibition space. The venue was well organized, easy to reach, and well-serviced; and for those that exhibited and those that visited, was credited as a truly successful experience. Textiles expert and WhatTheyThink contributor Debbie McKeegan shares her perspective.

ICYMI: FESPA 2023 Review: New Tech, Trends, and Key Market Shifts—A Powerful and Successful Show for the Global Print Community

Published June 1, 2023

From DTG & DTF to screen printing and from digital inks to consumables, the scope of innovation was evident to all attendees who showed great interest in the 70+ new product launches at FESPA. In this article, textiles expert and WhatTheyThink contributor Debbie McKeegan offers some highlights of the most notable unveilings that took place at this global show.

What Will It Take to Rewire The Fashion System? An Interview with Simon Platts of RE-UP

Published May 25, 2023

Simon Platts, CEO and Co-founder at RE-UP, has been a fashion industry practitioner for more than three decades and has the knowledge, experience and industry insight to successfully navigate change. In this article, compliments of textiles expert and WhatTheyThink contributor Debbie McKeegan, she and Simon discuss the systemic change required in the fashion industry and how it could be changed at warp speed through collaboration, transparency, and knowledge transfer.

Dye Sublimation Digital Print 2023 Review Q1: Part 2—Sublimation Inks and Transfer Papers

Published May 18, 2023

Dye sublimation continues to grow in popularity as a digital fabric printing technology. Critical to the quality of the print are the inks and transfer papers. In this article, textiles expert and WhatTheyThink contributor Debbie McKeegan reviews both.

Innovation, Technology, and Design Showcase the Future at Milan Design Week 2023

Published May 11, 2023

Milan Design Week is the final event in a European trilogy of fashion extravaganzas, which also includes events in Paris and London. In this article, compliments of textiles expert and WhatTheyThink contributor Debbie McKeegan, she provides event highlights, including a new vision of fashion success designed to be both circular and strategic.

Direct-to-Film Printing Technology and Textile Applications Explored

Published May 4, 2023

DTF (direct-to-film) apparel printing is making a real impact on the decorated apparel market. Machine manufacturers now offer ever more successful industrial solutions for this growing technology that just a few years ago seemed to be the preserve of the small craft manufacturer. In a global market for DTG (direct-to-garment) printing that is predicted to reach nearly US$1.9 billion by 2032, the DTF process is gaining ground by the month—as it offers new and unique advantages to trade printers. Textiles expert and WhatTheyThink contributor Debbie McKeegan shares more information in this article.

Dye Sublimation Digital Print 2023 Review Q1: Part 1—Digital Print Machinery

Published April 27, 2023

The global digital textile printing market size which was valued at US$2,669 million in 2022 is expected to expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 14.4% from 2023 to 2030 when it will reach US$8,957 million according to Grand View Research, and the use of dye-sublimation technology continues to grow. In fact, Grandview Research also found that 52% of all digital printing used dye-sublimation inks, making it the largest ink type by usage in the digital textile print sector. Learn more in this informative article compliments of textiles expert and WhatTheyThink contributor Debbie McKeegan.

Tradition and Innovation Collide at Decentraland’s Metaverse Fashion Week

Published April 20, 2023

In its second year, the Decentraland Metaverse Fashion Week, held in late March, demonstrated the newest advancements in digital fashion with a theme of Future Heritage. It was a global virtual event with more than 60 iconic brands, digital fashion houses, artists and independent designers showcasing their latest creations, leveraging the latest digital technologies for a fully immersive experience. To learn more, be sure to read this fascinating article from textiles expert and WhatTheyThink contributor Debbie McKeegan.

Designing and Building a Designer Brand Solo: Meet Sarah Thorley and Her Brand Pink Tiger Design

Published March 30, 2023

Today we are sharing another “Meet the Designer” story compliments of textiles expert and WhatTheyThink contributor Debbie McKeegan. Sarah Thorley is a recent graduate of Bolton University BA(Hons) Textiles and Surface Design and was recognized in the Green Grads-ECO STORIES Textile Challenge. Learn how Sarah is leveraging technology in developing her product range and how she is learning about commercial life in real time (as a solo designer) in a challenging marketplace with her Pink Tiger Design brand.

Digital Textile Printing as a Service: How the Third-Party Print Fulfilment Business Model Is Democratizing the Industry

Published March 23, 2023

Digital textile printing has grown more slowly than projected, but an emerging new business model perhaps promises a boost to that growth. In this new model, digital printing as a service, the digital print enterprise offers a managed virtual shop for the designer, where their designs and styles are presented online to the public, but where all the shop functions, comprising order handling, payment processing, digital printing, and drop-ship delivery are handled by the digital printer. Learn more about this trend in this article provided by textiles expert and WhatTheyThink contributor Debbie McKeegan.

Designer Q+A: Meet Estelle Pearce, The Super-Talented Digital Fashion Designer Using Tech to Push the Boundaries of Fashion Design

Published March 9, 2023

Leeds Arts University graduate Estelle Pearce, who earned a Masters in Digital Fashion, was selected to showcase her work at Digital Fashion Week New York and London Fashion Week. She works in both physical and digital media and has more than 15 years’ experience in the fashion industry. In this interview, compliments of textiles expert and WhatTheyThink contributor Debbie McKeegan, we learn more about her work and how she utilizes technology to explore her creativity.

Digital Textile Industry Growth Accelerates

Published March 2, 2023

After seeming to stall for some time, the digital textile industry is now projected to grow by 14.4% to 2030 according to Grand View Research. In this article, compliments of textiles expert and WhatTheyThink contributor Debbie McKeegan, we recap the research and why it is important to the industry and to the planet. The growth will be driven by the success of web-based on-demand business models—the urgency of the sustainability agenda—and the sheer economic efficiency of digital textile printing, according to the research.

DTG Printing Machinery SS/2023 Review: Stellar Growth and New Technologies to Explore

Published February 23, 2023

Stellar growth in the use of direct-to-garment (DTG) digital textile printing machinery continues to provide a unique and highly successful business model, gaining traction worldwide. As a technology built to deliver speed to market, it’s built for on-demand production and as such sustainable manufacturing—driving down inventory and production costs. In this article, provided by textiles expert and WhatTheyThink contributor Debbie McKeegan, you'll learn not only about DTG opportunities, but also the growing field of direct-to-film for garment printing.

Epson And Yuima Nakazato Spotlight New Technology and Circular Fashion at Paris Fashion Week

Published February 16, 2023

Japanese designer Yuima Nakazato chose Paris Fashion Week to launch his latest collection. He seeks to deliver garments that enhance the life of the wearer whilst seeking to improve the environmental impact of the fashion Industry and ultimately to democratize couture. His work symbolizes the reform of apparel—where design and materials combine to deliver a biophilic experience, nurturing the body and the planet simultaneously.

Texintel Live Interview with EFI Reggiani’s Adele Genoni

Published January 26, 2023

This video interview, conducted by and provided compliments of textiles expert and WhatTheyThink contributor Debbie McKeegan, discusses digital textile printing with Adele Genoni, senior vice president and general manager of EFI Reggiani. They discuss new printing technologies and Adele shares her insights on industry trends and how EFI Reggiani technology is evolving to fulfil market demands.

Aquario Textile Designer Delivers Essential Tools for Surface Pattern Design—Create, Color, Repeat, and Print

Published January 19, 2023

Have you been wondering whatever happened to Adobe Textile Designer? In this article, compliments of textiles expert and WhatTheyThink contributor Debbie McKeegan, we learn what Aquarios, who is now licensing and further developing Adobe Textile Designer, has up their sleeves. It is also important to note that the software supports a PDF workflow, which can be more efficient than a workflow dependent on image files.

Textiles From Seaweed Moves a Step Closer as AlgiKnit Raises $13 Million in Series A Funding

Published January 12, 2023

One of the challenges for textiles and apparel with regard to its abysmal sustainability performance is weaning itself away from petro-based fibers, including polyester and polyester blends, which account for about 60% of garment fabrics today. We've written about a number of alternative natural fibers that could replace these detrimental fossil-based plastics. Most recently, seaweed has surfaced as a potentially viable alternative. Sound icky? It’s not. Be sure to read this article compliments of textiles expert and WhatTheyThink contributor Debbie McKeegan that describes the potential of AlgiKnit yarns to make a difference in sustainability for textiles and apparel.

Meet Fashion Designer Megan Van Engelen, Winner of the Epson Design Awards

Published January 5, 2023

Events like Epson Design Awards are critical to helping new talent get recognized and established. It is this new talent that is the hope for our future. This year, the recipient was Megan van Engelen. In accepting the award, she said, “I really want to tell my story, and I think that’s more important than saying that the world is dying, because at this point, we need to show people how we can offer solutions and I think that’s what designers are for, and that we show people how we can be more sustainable.” Thanks to textiles expert and WhatTheyThink contributor Debbie McKeegan for sharing this story.

A Carnival of Innovation: The Latest Textile Technology from PRINTING United

Published December 15, 2022

Textiles expert and WhatTheyThink contributor rounds up the textile and apparel technologies that were introduced and shown at PRINTING United.

Texintel Spotlights Latest Innovations for Digital Manufacturing in Textiles

Published December 8, 2022

As we get back to in-person trade shows, suppliers to the textiles and apparel industry are proud to show off the latest innovations, assuring producers that despite the difficulties of the pandemic, supply chain and more in recent years, their development efforts continue. In this industry round-up, textiles expert and WhatTheyThink contributor Debbie McKeegan shares some of the latest innovations that are driving digitization across the supply chain.

Kent UK’s PressOn Has Been a Disruptive Force for More than 20 Years

Published December 1, 2022

Andy Wilson, the owner of Kent UK based PressOn, a wide-format printing company, entered the print industry some 28 years ago and has been a disruptive force ever since. He has consistently questioned the norm to develop and deliver new products, applications, and commercial opportunities—often in challenging times. We share his story here, compliments of textiles expert and WhatTheyThink contributor Debbie McKeegan.

Aquario Textile Design Software Delivers Essential Tools for the Surface Pattern Designer—Create, Color, Repeat, and Print

Published November 17, 2022

The design of textiles now demands speed, accuracy and embedded data. The patterns we create are no longer single use, and in a digitized world, their final product form, material application, and flexibility must now be considered and often incorporated into the original artwork. WhatTheyThink contributor Debbie McKeegan looks at Aquario Textile Designer offers a comprehensive suite of professional apparel and textile design tools with which to prepare and perfect the origination and production of a textile pattern or product.

Investing for Success: Caspar Offers a Smart Production Solution for Digital Textile Printing

Published November 10, 2022

As the digitization of the textile industry accelerates, on-demand textile printer Caspar’s business model is built for a new decade of industrial manufacturing using smart technologies—they have equipped their smart factory with necessary tools for success. This interview, compliments of textiles expert and WhatTheyThink contributor Debbie McKeegan, tells the story.

Up and Coming Talent in the Spotlight at the Epson Design Awards 2022: An Interview with Last Year’s Winner Sophie Wantia

Published November 3, 2022

Printer manufacturer Epson and fashion innovator LABELEDBY are organizing once again this year the Epson Design Awards, scheduled for November 15th. In this article, compliments of textiles expert and WhatTheyThink contributor Debbie McKeegan, we take a look back at last year's winner as an example of what we can expect from the 2022 awards.

The Wallcoverings Industry Is Set for Disruption and John Mark Ltd Is Leading the Field

Published September 22, 2022

One of the trends that emerged from the pandemic was an increased focus on décor -- home, office and otherwise. And that included a resurgence in interest in wallpaper. New technologies, including high quality production inkjet printing and equipment designed specifically to output short runs of customized wallpaper, have made it easier than ever before to produce bespoke wallpaper. And designers and producers alike are taking advantage of this trend. In this article, compliments of textiles expert and WhatTheyThink contributor Debbie McKeegan, we highlight the work of John Mark Watson of John Mark LTD as an inspiration to others.

Meet Lily Elo: First Class Honors BA (Hons) Textile Design Graduate in 2022 at Nottingham Trent University

Published September 8, 2022

As part of our ongoing series featuring the next generation of textile designers compliments of textiles expert and WhatTheyThink contributor Debbie McKeegan, we welcome you to read about Lily Elo. Her current project INTERFERENCE focuses on the phenomena of light interference creating an iridescent color spectrum.

Textile Technology Highlights S/S 2022: Trailblazing Innovations and New Developments

Published August 25, 2022

With the return of in-person trade shows and events in 2022, suppliers to the industry have plenty of technical developments on display, and the industry is poised to see accelerated growth and a continuing transition to digital technologies. In this article, textiles expert and WhatTheyThink contributor Debbie McKeegan highlights a few of them.

Why Are Live Workshops So Powerful? We Interview Jason Burroughs of Perfect Colours to Find Out More

Published August 18, 2022

Live events are back in play and here to stay! They support and connect the print community by providing a window of opportunity where networking and the transfer of knowledge go hand-in-hand. Textiles expert and WhatTheyThink contributor Debbie McKeegan talks with Jason Burroughs, Managing Director of Perfect Colours, about why their workshops offer the visitor such a valuable experience.

Textile Sustainability Spotlights S/S 22—Innovations and Insights

Published August 11, 2022

In this article, compliments of textiles expert and WhatTheyThink contributor Debbie McKeegan, we take a look at textile sustainability innovations and insights, with a focus on the supply chain, greenwashing, and truly sustainable initiatives.

From Kit Miles To Sebastian Cox—Barbara Chandler’s Photo Gallery at the New Designers Expo Celebrates 37 Years of Creative Talent

Published August 4, 2022

Design writer, curator, and photographer Barbara Chandler, who has been writing about design and decoration for more than 40 years, has documented the New Designers in Residence program at the Business Design Centre in Islington, UK. She has meticulously recorded their details in an ongoing commentary on Flickr and has a huge archive going back some 15 years. In this article, provided by textiles expert and WhatTheyThink contributor Debbie McKeegan, you will see and learn about the program and some of her favorite images.

Maria Begum Wins the Epson Design In Context Award in a Celebration of Printed Excellence

Published July 28, 2022

The textiles industry is blessed to have many young, innovative and creative designers entering the field. Maria Begum is just one example. She was recently awarded the Epson "Design in Context Award" for her work titled "The Floating Fields of Bangladesh," which combined dye sublimation printing and laser engraving to achieve stunning results. Thanks to textiles expert and WhatTheyThink contributor Debbie McKeegan for sharing this story with us.

Meet Phoebe Lewis: Creating Pigments from Seaweed for Industrial Textile Printing

Published July 21, 2022

We all love bright colors in our garments and home decor, but much of this color comes from toxic dyes that have deleterious effects on the environment. We congratulate professionals like Phoebe Lewis, an industrial designer focusing on developing products that help restore marine ecosystems and coastal communities, for her work in creating natural dyes from seaweed that could replace some of those toxic alternatives.

PONGS Group Use Digitally Printed DESCOR PREMIUM Wallcoverings to Add Drama, Scope, and Style to Their Designer Kitchens

Published July 14, 2022

Home decor is a hot market, and wallpaper, which had fallen into disfavor over the years, is making a comeback, fueled largely by the high-quality, fast turn, customized wall covering products now enabled by digital printing solutions. Printer manufacturers like Xeikon are offering turnkey wall covering production solutions, and companies like Spoonflower see high demand for custom wall coverings from its maker community. In this article, complements of textiles expert and WhatTheyThink contributor Debbie McKeegan, PONGS Group explains how they use digitally printed wallcoverings to add drama, scope, and style to their designer kitchens.

Next Generation Textile Professionals Focus on Climate

Published June 30, 2022

In this story, compliments of textiles expert and WhatTheyThink contributor Debbie McKeegan, five winners of the prestigious Central Saint Martins Maison/O Green Trail competition demonstrate how the next generation of textile professionals is working to address the climate emergency. Their submissions range from transformational garments to production methods that scale textile dyeing with bacteria and spatial design that supports reforestation.

A Vibrant FESPA Global Print Expo 2022 Affirms Business Bounce-Back as a Confident and Investment-Ready Audience Focused on a Profitable and Sustainable Future

Published June 16, 2022

As the industry and the world returns to in-person events, the recent FESPA exhibition in Berlin is a good example of the pent-up energy after a long virtual experience induced by the pandemic. FESPA Global Print Expo 2022 brought the specialty print community together for four motivational days in Berlin (May 31 to June 3, 2022), in an atmosphere of overwhelming positivity that affirmed the industry’s readiness to bounce back from the challenges of the last two years.

Judging the Future of Design

Published June 9, 2022

Leading up to the UK’s Design Futures 2022 competition, textiles expert and WhatTheyThink contributor Debbie McKeegan spoke to one of the judges, designer Phoebe English. A dynamic thinker with a careful, considered approach, Phoebe is on an ever-evolving search to better her practices, making her the perfect judge for this year’s innovation challenge which is focused on design for circularity. Learn more about her advice to designer applicants.

Learn How the Company Digital Space Created a New Wallcovering Business With Digital Printing Technology

Published June 2, 2022

Last week we wrote about British home decor firm Gillian Arnold leveraging digital printing to bring production of wall coverings in house. This week, we share another wall covering success story that started with digital production of 200 square meters of wall covering by Digital Space for Marriott Hotels.

British Designer Brand Gillian Arnold Continues to Expand to Bring Wallpaper Production In-House

Published May 26, 2022

This British design house adopted digital heat transfer dye sublimation printing for on-demand manufacturing of home decor. Now they have turned their attention to wallpaper, bringing production in house with latex printing. The success they have achieved makes them a role model for a production process for sustainable home decor that gives creatives more flexibility than ever before.

Imageco Partners with HP Technology to Deliver Sustainable Printed Production for Retail Graphics and POS

Published May 19, 2022

At UK-based Imageco, sustainability is a key focus. When the current owner took over, he brought with him his passion for a more sustainable future and took steps to improve the company’s sustainability profile. Today, Imageco provides their customers with affordable, versatile products that are manufactured using a responsible production process, sustainable materials, and best practices wherever possible. Read the full story.

Saul Nash Receives The Queen Elizabeth II Award for British Design

Published May 12, 2022

The British Fashion Council announced that Saul Nash is the recipient of the Queen Elizabeth II Award for British Design. The Award was presented by the Duchess of Cambridge on behalf of Her Majesty The Queen in this Platinum Jubilee year. The Queen Elizabeth II Award for British Design was initiated in recognition of the role the fashion industry plays in society and diplomacy and to spotlight young designers who are talented and making a difference to society through either sustainable practices or community engagement.

Discover How White Ink Technology Is Pushing the Boundaries of Interior Décor to Create New Applications for Print

Published April 28, 2022

Another sign of the growth in customized interior décor is the increased interest in using white ink in producing higher quality and more diverse interior décor products. This includes such applications and materials as signage and graphics, window displays, wallpapers, vinyl, glass, wood, aluminum, cork and even printed leather to name just a few options. Participants in a recent HP sponsored webinar discuss how the addition of white ink has helped them successfully expanded their businesses and product portfolios.

British Fashion Just Took a Leap Forward Towards Sustainable Manufacturing with the Fashtech Innovation Centre

Published April 21, 2022

When we talk of nearshore or close proximity production, there is always an unspoken truth: sewn manufacturing (or CMT to those within the industry) and its local availability. Once printed, textiles are almost always cut and sewn into a final product. Supply chain challenges of the last two years have exposed a sewn skills gap, and further highlighted a significant lack of manufacturing knowledge readily available in the UK (and other developed countries), making the reshoring of sewn goods in any volume a difficult proposition. This initiative is designed not only to incorporate more digital printing into apparel production but also to harness existing sewing skills in the UK and train sewists on the latest technology. There also lessons here for US apparel production. It’s a good example for other regions, such as North America, to follow.

Cardiff School of Art and Design Invests in the HP Stitch S300 to Expand Their Textile Department

Published April 7, 2022

A critical factor in the future of textiles and apparel is the education of new talent in the world’s fashion and design schools. Increasingly, these schools are bringing in digital technologies, including digital textile printing, to prepare their students for the changing world they will be entering. Cardiff School of Art and Design is one of the schools that is doing just that, as explained in this article compliments of textiles expert and WhatTheyThink contributor Debbie McKeegan.

Discover How White Ink Technology from HP Is Pushing the Boundaries of Interior Decor to Create New Applications for Print

Published March 31, 2022

In this article, textiles expert and WhatTheyThink contributor Debbie McKeegan shares a summary of a recent webinar with a panel discussion about how the business of interior decor has changed, the influence of digital textile printing, and the value of a printing system that includes white ink.

Educating the Next Generation: The Creatives in Residence Final Showcase

Published March 24, 2022

A little over six months ago, four young graduates joined the “Creatives in Residence” project based at the CMYUK demonstration facility in Shrewsbury. After a difficult two years with little access to their university facilities from 2020-2021 the CIRL initiative presented a unique opportunity to explore digital manufacturing technologies and build their commercial knowledge. In this article, textiles expert and WhatTheyThink contributor Debbie McKeegan summarizes the results of the initiative.

Powering the Design Function for Customized Apparel and Sportswear Production With CorelDRAW

Published March 17, 2022

It seems that everything is accelerating these days, and the apparel business is not immune. Digital technologies help brands address both acceleration and changing trends while giving designers more freedom and agility to create. In this article, textiles expert and WhatTheyThink contributor Debbie McKeegan explains.

Michael Cinco, the Grand Master of Dubai’s Elite Fashion Scene, Adds a Sophisticated Twist of Print with Epson

Published March 10, 2022

Textiles expert and WhatTheyThink contributor Debbie McKeegan shares the story of Dubai fashion designer Michael Cinco, who has turned to digital textile printing to create truly amazing designs.

Designing in a Digital World—How CorelDRAW Simplifies the Creative Designer’s Workflow

Published February 24, 2022

If you are not immersed in the world of graphic design, and perhaps even if you are, you may not realize the suite of Corel solutions is still quite popular. Founded in 1985 by Michael Cowpland, with its first product, CorelDRAW, a vector-based illustration program designed to bundle with desktop publishing systems, being released in 1989. Today, CorelDRAW is a vector graphics editor developed and marketed by Corel Corporation. It is also the name of the Corel graphics suite, which includes the bitmap image editor Corel Photo-Paint as well as other graphics-related programs. And now the company points to suite as a solution for textile and apparel design, according to this article provided compliments of textiles expert and WhatTheyThink contributor Debbie McKeegan.

“Motivation to Be Sustainable”: Understanding Key Trends and Behaviors

Published February 17, 2022

As we move towards a sustainable future, each and every product we consume has an environmental impact. Every choice that we make as designers and printers matters and collectively, we can make a significant contribution to the environmental impact of the products we create across all commercial sectors. Together we can drive effective change for a sustainable future. So says Wilbert van der Lans, Strategy Director at Make Sense, in a presentation he delivered as part of HP’s Sustainable Impact Series. Learn more.

Designer Q&A: Meet Kristen Dettoni of Design Pool Patterns, A New Format for Interior Decoration

Published February 10, 2022

As part of an ongoing series featuring designers in the world of textiles and apparel, textiles expert and WhatTheyThink contributor Debbie McKeegan interviewed Design Pool founder Kristen Dettoni. Founded in 2019, Design Pool is an online business that combines licensing of Kristen's fabric designs with a program linking designers with printers that can do a quality job of producing according to design intent. Learn more about Design Pool and Kristen's award-winning Cryptology designs, the latest addition to her portfolio of designs.

Expanding Into New Horizons: Why British Interior Brand Art of the Loom Invested in Digital Tech

Published February 3, 2022

As digital technologies have evolved, their ease of use and affordability continue to drive the digital disruption of the home furnishings marketplace. In this article, compliments of textiles expert and WhatTheyThink contributor Debbie McKeegan, we learn how British firm Art of the Loom has leveraged digital technologies to evolve its offerings over time. The family has been involved in textiles since 1815!

Meet Textile Designer Lucy Swann and Discover Her Unique Creative Journey and Fashion Designs

Published January 27, 2022

As part of our continuing “meet the designer” series, compliments of textiles expert and WhatTheyThink contributor Debbie McKeegan, we introduce you to Lucy Swann, who has been designing beautiful surface patterns for the fashion industry for many years. She talks about her journey, how the industry has changed over the years, and her diversification efforts.

Investing in HP Technology and Design to Expand into the Contract Furnishing Marketplace—We Talk with Mallion and Knowles

Published January 20, 2022

Digital textile printing is starting to gain steam in the contract furnishing marketplace! Find out how this development is benefiting Mallion & Knowles! Our thanks to textiles expert Debbie McKeegan for sharing this story.

The African Print Company Invests in Digital Textile Print for Absolute Supply Chain Control

Published January 13, 2022

Choosing to purchase their own machinery and not to outsource the manufacture of their products will give the husband-and-wife team at The African Print Company absolute control of their supply chain as they gear up the business, removing the requirement for keeping inventory on hand. And importantly, giving them the freedom to listen to their consumers and create the designs and products that their loyal customers love. They intend to implement customized manufacture and on-demand production from day one.

The Best in British Hospitality Design

Published December 16, 2021

Want to find out what constitutes the Best in British Hospitality Product Design? Textiles expert and WhatTheyThink contributor Debbie McKeegan is anxious to share! She interviews the team at this year's award winner, The Monkey Puzzle Tree. Cool name. Even cooler designs!

The Time is Now for Fashion to Get Wholly On Board with Sustainability!

Published December 9, 2021

As we move towards a sustainable future, each and every product we consume has an environmental impact. Every choice that we make as designers and printers matters and collectively, we can make a significant contribution to the environmental impact of the products we create across all commercial sectors. Together we can drive effective change for a sustainable future. That’s the message that global retail sustainability strategist Steve Lister is communicating through his participation in HP’s Sustainable Impact Series. Don't miss this important read! Or view the recorded presentation.

Eurojersey Leverages Digital Print for Knitted Collections

Published December 2, 2021

When we talk about digital print for fabrics, we are often dealing with woven fabrics. But digital print can be used with knitted fabrics as well, as demonstrated by the success of Eurojersey in introducing digitally printed knit collections. The company, based in Italy, has been around for nearly 70 years and continues to lead the market in technical fabric innovation and sustainable sourcing. With its digitally printed Sensitive® Fabrics, the company uses digital printing to give the fabric a different appearance and different properties compared to its plain color products. Learn more.

Driving the Reinvention of Printed Textile Production Demands an Acute Knowledge of Process

Published November 18, 2021

Over the years, digital textile printing appears to have become much simpler; and that is a tribute to the research and development teams, who have now perfected textile printing on an industrial scale by fine tuning physical manufacturing technology alongside digital innovation. But each unique combination of design, substrate, ink type, print process and post finishing has a cumulative impact on final printed output. This article, compliments of textile expert and WhatTheyThink contributor Debbie McKeegan, explains.

Not Fast Fashion—Extraordinary Fashion: Kornit Fashion Week Rocks Los Angeles to Deliver a New Future for Apparel Production

Published November 11, 2021

We talk a great deal about on-demand manufacturing in textiles and apparel, but it takes more than talk. Los Angeles Fashion Week may have been a tipping point between talk and action, according to on-demand apparel manufacturer Kirby Best. Why? Take a look at this article compliments of WhatTheyThink contributor and textiles expert Debbie McKeegan that demonstrates what can be done with digital technologies to change the way we think about—and produce—fashion.

Designer Q&A: Meet Irene Van Ophoven and Her Stunning Interior Products that Push the Established Boundaries of Design

Published October 28, 2021

In this piece, textiles expert and WhatTheyThink contributor Debbie McKeegan interviews Dutch designer Irene Van Ophoven about her journey to establishing her own design studio, including how digital technologies have enhanced her ability to create innovative, stunning designs.

Debbie McKeegan Reports from FESPA

Published October 19, 2021

FESPA is back to in-person in Amsterdam and according to textiles expert, FESPA evangelist, and WhatTheyThink contributor Debbie McKeegan, the show has been packed! Debbie takes us on a tour through Printeriors, where fabulous digitally printed and sustainable interior designs are on display. She notes that in the two years since the last in-person FESPA, she has seen a growing interest in sustainable fabrics and printing technologies, with many attendees wanting to know where and how to access and/or produce the types of materials on display at the show.

Important New Developments and Product Launches: Direct to Fabric Digital Machinery

Published September 16, 2021

Despite the constraints of the pandemic, manufacturers of digital direct-to-fabric printing solutions have been hard at work bring innovative solutions to a market which is already bouncing back. In this article, textiles expert and WhatTheyThink contributor Debbie McKeegan highlights the most important developments and product launches in this growth area.

Zimmer Technologies for Digital Textile and Carpet Printing Continue to Disrupt the Status Quo

Published September 2, 2021

Last month, we ran a long article about the pros, cons, and challenges of carpet printing. In this article, textiles expert and WhatTheyThink contributor Debbie McKeegan interviews the CEO of Zimmer, a pioneer in innovative technologies for screen and digital printing (including carpet), coating, dyeing, steaming, and technical textiles.

Expanding Into New Markets: Manchester Print Services Goes from Wide Format to Interior Décor

Published August 19, 2021

Manchester Print Services in the UK is one of a growing number of companies driving new business models in the textiles industry, including digital production of interior décor, as well as specialized textile printing for events, exhibitions, and retail display.

Exquisite Italian Silks from Mantero Seta Printed to Perfection with Epson Monna Lisa Digital Technology

Published July 29, 2021

Throughout history, silk has been recognized as one of the most, if not the most, exquisite and luxurious fabrics available. Now fabric printers are having huge success with digital printing of this glorious textile. In this article, textile expert and WhatTheyThink contributor Debbie McKeegan shares an example from Italian firm Mantero.

Articles by Debbie McKeegan