A range of printing methods are used in the development and making of our products. Screen printing is done by hand in the studio, using a mesh screen and squeegee to push the ink through the open parts of a stencil. Printing in this way helps us to explore colours, pattern and effects before we choose the final samples to be manufactured. We use soil association inks for the initial stages of experimentation.

To make sure we can provide consistent, resilient and affordable yet high quality items, we use commercial manufacturers to produce them. Flatbed printing is a fully automated version of screen printing. This means larger quantities can be printed quickly and accurately, and is suitable for designs with smaller print areas. Rotary printing is used for larger print areas. This form of printing accounts for the largest proportion of global textile production. For rotary printing, an engraved cylinder is used, and this results in a wider print area being created.

   

Digital printing is suitable for print patterns with several colours, as it does not require a separate screen for each colour, unlike screen printing. Where screen printing is preferable due to the density of the pigment, and the feel of the fabric, digital printing can outperform on the range of colours, as these can be printed simultaneously, rather in separate stages. We have used this process for some of our new textile designs.

Our print suppliers all use water based inks. Imported raw materials such as fabrics and wood are sourced carefully to ensure fair standards of production. Our suppliers tell us that the fabrics they import from mills outside of the UK, are sourced directly in order to ensure that child labour is not used and that employment standards are good. Our stretcher bars are made from wood producers who adhere to the UK Government's Timber Procurement Policy (TPP).

The printed fabrics on this website are made from our own original designs and are intended for home decor projects. Curious Lions reserves the right to refuse the sale of these fabrics to those who wish to use them in order to make their own products to sell. Please contact us directly, if you would like to discuss this further.

All of our suppliers produce the main part of their items in the UK, whether cutting wood stretchers, giclee printing, or fabric printing.