Discharging is a chemical printing or dyeing process where a bleaching agent is applied to a piece-dyed fabric to strip away the original color in specific areas. This leaves a pattern of lighter or white motifs on a dark background. The process requires dyes that are susceptible to chemical destruction, and it allows for crisp, light-colored patterns on dark textiles without the stiffness of opaque surface inks.
Heard on the job
We printed the discharge paste on the black jersey, so once it goes through the steamer the white floral pattern will pop out.
Also heard as
- discharge printing
- extract printing