Data processing method, data recording method, flexible packaging manufacturing method, and image recording apparatus

An image recording apparatus comprising:

• a recording head configured to eject ink from a plurality of nozzles arranged in a main scanning direction;
• a conveyance mechanism configured to convey a long strip-shaped base material in a sub-scanning direction orthogonal to the main scanning direction relative to the recording head;
• and
• a data processing device configured to generate recording data to be input to the recording head,
• wherein the data processing device includes
• a storage part configured to store a first basic pattern image and a second basic pattern image, and
• a calculation part configured to calculate a pixel value to be recorded for each recording layout coordinate set indicative of a position on the base material,
• wherein the calculation part assigns each of a pixel value of a first basic pattern coordinate set indicative of a position on the first basic pattern image and a pixel value of a second basic pattern coordinate set indicative of a position on the second basic pattern image to a corresponding one of the recording layout coordinate sets so as to cause the first basic pattern image and the second basic pattern image to be arranged side by side in the main scanning direction and to cause the first basic pattern image and the second basic pattern image to be each arranged continuously and repeatedly in the sub-scanning direction.