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In custom fabric production, the most expensive mistakes often happen before printing even begins. One of the most common—and preventable—errors is skipping fabric testing. Many brands move directly into bulk orders without reviewing a fabric sample, assuming the results will match expectations.
In reality, every fabric behaves differently during custom printing on fabric. Fiber composition, knit structure, stretch ratio, and surface texture all influence how ink is absorbed and fixed. Without testing, these variables can cause unexpected color shifts, distortion, or inconsistent print quality.
This risk is especially high when working with elastic materials such as stretch cotton jersey fabric and cotton lycra knit fabric. Although they may appear similar on paper, their performance during printing can vary significantly. A small sample allows designers to assess color clarity, pattern stability, and stretch recovery before committing to production.
Testing a fabric sample also helps identify issues that only appear after washing or curing. Problems such as fading, cracking, or pattern misalignment often go unnoticed until after mass production—when correction becomes extremely costly. This is particularly critical for printed textile fabric intended for garments or consumer-facing products.
Comparing materials like fabric cotton lycra and knit stretch fabric through samples enables brands to make informed decisions based on real performance rather than assumptions. It also provides an opportunity to refine artwork, adjust ink density, or select a more suitable fabric before scaling up.
From a financial standpoint, testing reduces risk across the entire production chain. A small upfront investment in sampling can prevent reprints, delays, wasted inventory, and missed delivery timelines—issues that can easily cost thousands once bulk orders are underway.
At Facto Textile, we strongly recommend reviewing a fabric sample before moving forward with any bulk custom textile printing project. Testing is not an extra step—it is a safeguard that protects quality, budget, and brand reputation before you print custom fabric at scale.
