Discharge Printing

Definition

A screen printing technique that removes the dye from the fabric rather than laying ink on top, producing an ultra-soft print with zero hand (no tactile difference between printed and unprinted areas). Discharge works best on 100% cotton, dark-coloured garments and uses a chemical agent activated by heat to bleach out the fabric dye and optionally replace it with a new colour. The result is a vintage, worn-in feel from day one. It will not work on 50/50 or polycotton blends, because the polyester fibre keeps its colour — see our full guide to discharge printing for which fabrics and dyes qualify.