Step 1: Understanding resist printing.
In resist printing, the resist agent is applied to the fabric first to prevent the dye from being absorbed in certain areas, leaving those areas undyed during the subsequent dyeing process. Therefore, printing is followed by dyeing.
Step 2: Nature of resist agent.
Resist agents are typically acidic in nature as they inhibit the dye's ability to react with the fabric in the printed areas. Acidic resist agents neutralize reactive dyes, preventing them from bonding with the fabric.
Step 3: Summary.
Thus, the correct sequence is printing followed by dyeing, and the resist agent is acidic in nature.