Textile printing

Textile printing involves the production of a predetermined coloured pattern on a fabric, usually with a definite repeat. It can be described as a localised form of dyeing, applying colorant to selected areas of the fabric to build up the design.

The greatest change in fashion and design that has ever occurred in European textiles was the general introduction of printed fabrics. The first printed fabrics were produced in India and China over four thousand years ago. European textile printing dates from about the tenth century. Until relatively cheap printed fabrics became available, patterns on European dress were the result of weaving or embroidery. Such clothes could only be afforded by the wealthy.