Scan Your Fabrics in 4 Steps

The camera does not lie. Wrinkles that are almost invisible to the human eye can appear in high contrast on digital materials in the 3D world. The same is true with slubs that are uncharacteristic for the fabric, as well as for lint and stains. While it is sometimes possible to remove imperfections, it is far easier to ensure high-quality assets by eliminating them from your sample before scanning.

If you haven’t already, please read this article on how to prepare your materials for scanning. Once your materials are ready, let's get started.

Scanning Resolution

In terms of the scanner and its specifications, Textura requires a minimum of 300 DPI (dots per inch). However, this resolution is suitable for quick testing and faster results. For professional-quality maps, we recommend using a resolution of 600 DPI or higher, as it will yield the best output. If your scanner does not support this resolution, please select the highest resolution available to achieve the best possible results.

Step 1: Place the Fabric in the Center of the Scanner

Follow these guidelines:

• Ensure that the fabric swatch is properly aligned and positioned at the center of the scanner. If you have a larger sample, you can place it over the scanner and then select the best area to be scanned.
• Make sure that the fabric's grain line is straight horizontally for the weft and vertically for the warp, with the top of the fabric aligned with the top edge of the scanned image.
• Capture an area that includes more than the full repeat of the yarn dye or print pattern.
• Check for any lint or dust on the fabric, and gently remove it if present to ensure a clean scan.

Step 2: Close the Scanner Lid

Close the scanner lid, assuring it is flat to prevent ambient light from leaking into the scan.

A solid object like a book can be used to close the lid fully but be careful to avoid using too much weight to crush the fabric surface.

Step 3: Review the Fabric

Open your scanner application and configure the settings:

• Document Type: Reflective
• Image Type: 24-bit Color
• Resolution: We recommend starting with a minimum 600 DPI
• Image format: TIFF or PNG
• If you are using an Epson scanner, we recommend applying the ICM - Epson Standard color profile

Use your scanner’s preview tools to view the fabric and confirm it is placed on the scanner straight and that it is wrinkle and lint-free.

Step 4: Select Desired Area

When you are satisfied with the setup, proceed to scan either the entire platen surface (which can be cropped later using SEDDI's Textura upload tools) or select a minimum scan area of 10 cm x 10 cm (or 4 in x 4 in). If applicable, ensure that the selected area includes slightly more than the full pattern repeat. When in doubt, it is better to opt for a larger scan area. This guideline applies to solid fabrics as well.