First2Print, which offers large-format fabric printing services, has collaborated with ESPI Fashion Design to transform original artwork into ready-to-wear swimwear, which it has unveiled at New York's Material World show.

Via a combination of three different polyester fabrics, dye-sublimation inks, digital textile printers, and a heat transfer process, First2Print is able to digitally print fabrics that can go straight to the sewing machine, sink, or pool - for vibrant, non-fading finished goods. The entire short-run, production-fabric printing process is digital - from the digital photo of the artwork design to the printed fabric itself. Unlike screen printed fabrics, or traditional rotary mills, First2Print is able to deliver customised yardage in just days.

The polyester fabrics used for the swimwear line include a matte, stretch poly-swim; a drapy, no-stretch, white-metallic sheen charmeuse; and a white, stretch poly-lycra with a medium sheen. No two swim suits will be alike as the garment pieces are strategically placed on the non-repeated printed fabric before each pattern is cut.

"We are taking original painted artwork and turning it into beautiful textile designs," said Armondo Barboza, chief executive designer for ESPI Fashion Design. "We looked at several choices for putting these swimsuits together, and First2Print with its digital setup and creative talent was just the best combination for us."