Printing on to textiles has just taken a giant leap forward with the release of the T-Jet inkjet-to-textile printer, available from CADlink Integrated Solutions (CIS), the new Division of CADlink UK.

The T-Jet uses proven inkjet technology and special inks to print vibrant, photo-realistic designs on to a range of fabrics. Unlike most currently available T-Shirt systems, which require 50/50 cotton/polyester blends, 100% polyester and other natural and synthetic fabrics mixes, the T-Jet can print directly onto 100% cotton items.

The inks developed for the T-Jet are pigmented textile dyes, requiring only a very short heating time to achieve a full 'Colour Fast' cure. Printed Full colour images are vibrant, bright and don't fade any more than traditionally screen printed garments, even after multiple washes.

Quick and simple to use, with no complicated set up, mess or unpleasant smells, this new textile printer is a perfect solution for one-offs, samples and short runs, and with the low, per unit production costs, even larger runs are still financially viable using just the T-Jet.

The ability to print on synthetic materials enables brilliant results to be achieved on much more than cotton T-shirts, it's ideal for mouse pads, coasters, golf towels, baseball caps, tote bags, baby bibs - even underwear.

The maximum printing size for the T-Jet Standard is 12.5" x 19" (31.75 x 48.26cm) and takes an average of just two to two and half minutes to print a full-size image on a T-shirt and less for small designs.

The resulting print quality is excellent, at up to 2800 x 1440 dpi, and printed designs have a soft hand feel, just as a mass produced retail product. A bulk ink system means ink costs are low, calculated at less than 30p for a full-size image and as little as 5p for a logo on a cap or coaster.

Pre-programmed drivers included enable full colour or spot colour designs created in SignLab V7.1, Photoshop, Corel, Quark, Freehand and Illustrator on Mac or Windows platforms, to be output direct to a garment. The item to be printed is simply laid on a fixing on the printer bed, smoothed out and, if required, secured by a metal holding ring.

The 'Print' button is then pressed and the machine automatically moves the bed into position and efficiently prints the design. Standard conveyor dryer or heat transfer press can be used to cure the inks.

Dave Buckingham of CIS said, 'There's no comparative equipment at this price. Until now, if you wanted to print on such a wide range of textile items, you were talking in excess of a five-figure sum.

'The T-Jet is quicker, simpler and more economical than screenprinting or dye sublimation for short runs. Forget all the hassle and expense of making CMYK separations and screens. This is as quick and easy to use as a standard desktop printer, whether its one-offs, a dozen or a 100 T-Shirts required.'

The T-Jet comes with a one year shipping warranty, and full technical support from CIS, including initial training, multi-media 24 hour help, 9-5 telephone support, training DVDs, and other on-line help systems. On-site installation and Training is available as an option.

CADlink Integrated Solutions (CIS) is the new division of CADlink UK - established to provide complete system solutions, both for new installations and for seamless integration of new technology into existing facilities.

CIS was formed following demand to have one source for advice, supply and technical support, and one that encompassed current and future needs in a world of ever-increasing design and output options.

Whether you're just starting out, updating current design or production facilities, or extending your services from cut vinyl to potentially more lucrative colour markets, CIS is on hand to help you succeed. Discuss your individual workflow requirements and existing system with us and we will supply, configure and install a fully integrated solution tailored to your needs.

Available solutions include advice, supply of hardware, or hardware and software, initial on-site training, telephone support, training DVDs, 24 hour on-line libraries of useful 'how to dos', and further training at your premises or at the new purpose-designed showroom and offices in Hertfordshire featuring exciting state-of-the-art technology.

For further information contact CIS on 01462 420222 or visit the website at www.cadlink.co.uk.

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