Kornit Digital launches Atlas Matrix, a new printer for on-demand digital textile production. The Atlas Matrix combines direct printing and transfer on film (DTF) in a single machine for applications on cotton, polyester and mixed textiles. The Nasdaq-listed manufacturer is thus pursuing the development of its Atlas range, seeking to reduce the constraints associated with short- and medium-run processing, particularly on polyester.
A response to polyester constraints
The heart of the Atlas Matrix is the Karbon Shield direct printing technology. It applies a protective layer that limits dye migration, a common phenomenon on polyester textiles, especially dyed or sublimated ones. It enables printing in a single step, without complex adjustments or intermediate treatments.
Ronen Samuel, Managing Director of Kornit Digital, points out the limitations of existing processes: "Screen printing can give excellent results on polyester, but it requires long preparation times, multiple processing steps and additional costs to control dye migration and ensure consistent prints." He adds: "Digital solutions (...) have significantly pushed the boundaries of what's possible, but performance on polyester depended on fabric type, process setting and operational complexity. Atlas Matrix removes these limitations entirely."
Karbon Shield technology also applies to film printing, guaranteeing "perfect consistency" between the two printing methods and opens "new perspectives on investment, design flexibility and product categories" .
Focus on the short-run market
The system is aimed primarily at short and medium runs. Kornit Digital estimates that the worldwide screen printing','www.printindustry.news/search/serigraphy');" class="lien-auto-article" href="https://www.printindustry.news/search/serigraphy">screen printing market represents around 14 billion prints per year, of which almost 6 billion are for runs of less than 1,000,000 copies.
Around 30% of this volume is made up of polyester and blended fabrics, widely used in the sports and technical clothing segments. These applications demand high levels of performance and regularity.
Atlas Matrix enables different types of textile to be combined on a single production line. This approach reduces process changes and manpower requirements, while opening up new applications.
Two configurations for different uses
The system is available in two configurations. One version incorporates neon inks for sportswear and high-visibility applications, while the other is based on red and green inks for fashion markets.
Atlas Matrix is also available via upgrade kits for users of Atlas Max Plus and Atlas Max Poly models. This textile printing machine will be demonstrated at the Fespa Global Print Expo in Barcelona in May 2026.
