Best printer/workflow for printing on open-weave needlepoint canvas?
I’m a needlepoint designer currently exploring options for printing directly onto open-weave needlepoint canvas/mesh rather than hand painting everything individually.
I already design everything digitally to exact 13/18 mesh grid specs, so the design side is covered. Where I’m trying to learn more is the actual print workflow and equipment side, especially for small-batch/on-demand production.
Right now I’m researching high-end pigment/fine art printers (Canon PRO-1100, Epson P900, etc.), but I’m wondering if anyone here has experience printing onto woven mesh or similarly unstable/open substrates.
The biggest things I’m trying to optimize for are:
- minimal bleed/spread on the mesh intersections
- strong opacity/vibrant color saturation directly on canvas
- extremely accurate alignment/registration
- minimal skew/distortion during feed
- ability to handle mounted or stabilized media if needed
I’m less concerned with speed/volume and more concerned with precision and consistency in a home studio setting.
Would love insight on:
- printer recommendations
- pigment vs other ink systems
- carrier sheet/stabilization workflows
- whether flatbed/DTG/UV setups are worth considering
- anything I may not be thinking about from a media handling standpoint
I know this is a somewhat niche use case, but figured there may be people here with textile/fine art/media handling experience that overlaps.
Thanks!
TLDR: Looking to print highly precise grid-based artwork onto open-weave needlepoint canvas. Need exceptional media stability/alignment. Considering Canon PRO-1100 vs Epson P900. Has anyone experimented with woven mesh substrates or mounted textile workflows?