Shein saves water with digital denim printing
A popular shopping app is utilizing leading-edge technology to streamline and maximize the sustainability of denim manufacturing.
Chinese-founded and Singapore-based global on-demand fashion app Shein is increasing its adoption of cool transfer denim printing, a technology that consumes less water and energy compared to traditional denim manufacturing methods while simplifying the production process.
Approximately 380,000 pieces of Shein’s denim apparel produced in 2024 were made using the process, which the company says saved more than 10,000 metric tons of water compared to traditional denim production techniques.
This marked a 90% increase from 2023, when Shein made 200,000 denim pieces using this method. Since introducing cool transfer denim printing in 2022, Shein says it has saved nearly 19,500 metric tons of water.
How it works
Traditional denim manufacturing requires water and energy for processes such as dyeing, bleaching, and washing. Shein partnered with NTX in 2021 to introduce cool transfer denim printing.
This process involves a digital printer using reactive ink to print denim textures, artwork or patterns onto a transfer film. The designs on the transfer film are then imprinted onto white denim fabric using cold transfer equipment, replicating the effects of washing denim to produce features like faded finishes, whiskering, and retro-worn effects.
Verified by global inspection and certification provider Bureau Veritas in October 2023, the process reduces water usage by 70.5% compared to conventional denim washing methods and also eliminates the need for workers to be in contact with harmful chemicals, such as chlorine and caustic soda, which may be used in traditional denim production.
Shein integrates cool transfer denim printing into its on-demand business model, which leverages a digitalized supply chain to match customer demand with merchandise supply by launching new products in small initial batches of 100-200 items, assessing customer feedback in real time, and restocking items based on demand.
"This initiative is part of Shein's broader strategy to accelerate change in manufacturing processes, become more resource-efficient and promote innovation in the future of fashion," Shein said in a statement.
Walmart weaves in 3D
In a similar effort, discount giant Walmart has been piloting first-of-its-kind 3D weaving technology from Unspun in its apparel supply chain. Unspun’s proprietary solution uses 3D capabilities to eliminate the steps of cutting and stitching fabric from apparel creation, going straight from yarn to garment.
[READ MORE: Walmart pilots 3D weaving technology for apparel]
As a result, fabric loss, discarded inventory and transport emissions are removed from the apparel supply chain, while production can be sourced locally and on demand. Walmart is testing Unspun technology in its supply chain for private label men’s chinos.
