The dye-sublimation process has a seamless, soft feel ideal for products like baby blankets. Photo courtesy of Epson

Even as apparel trends evolve, economic conditions fluctuate and new technologies emerge, dye-sublimation continues to prove its reliability in the textile industry.

Over the past few years, we’ve seen interest in DTFilm printing grow, as compact systems offer many advantages for apparel decorators. DTFilm involves printing designs onto a designated film, applying a TPU adhesive DTFilm powder and then transferring thes image using a heat press onto virtually any fabric. Among the advantages of DTFilm over DTG, in which a design is printed directly onto the garment being decorated, is the fact it can be used to decorate a wide range of fabrics and doesn’t require the same pretreatment use with DTG.

While DTG and DTFilm are driving the businesses of smaller apparel decorators—many of which started during the pandemic—in the coming years, as these businesses grown they will undoubtedly look to expand their solution offerings. With this in mind, apparel decorators can easily weave dye-sublimation into their current workflow and reap its benefits, including impressive versatility, expansive color gamut and low maintenance requirements. For many small shops, it can significantly enhance business operations and increase ROI.

Setting Up Shop

Like DTFilm, dye-sublimation printing involves a transfer process; unlike DTFilm, dye-sublimation ink dyes the polyester fibers of the fabric, rather sitting on top. Each design is printed on a transfer paper that is then applied to the fabric through a heat transfer process; this is where the magic of

A reliable heat press, like the Hotronix ProPlace IQ, goes a long way to achieve amazing sublimation results. Photo courtesy of STAHLS’

sublimation begins. The heat and pressure placed on the transfer paper initiates a chemical reaction that turns the ink into gas that dyes the fabric. It is also here where the colors bloom and become more vibrant.

Note: because of the chemical reactions that are integral to this kind of decorating, sublimation can only be used with polyester fabrics or on polyester surfaces. Also, because sublimation dyes become a part of the fabric or surface they’re decorating, and not covering them up, as is the case with, say, DTFilm, it can only be used on white or very light-colored surfaces.

For apparel shops looking to invest in dye-sublimation, there are two critical pieces of hardware—the printer and a compatible heat press. If a business is already offering DTFilm or DTG, they most likely already have at least one compatible heat press. However, if an apparel decorator is interested in a wide-format dye-sublimation printer, a bigger calendar-style heat press is needed for larger applications and bolt fabric orders will be an essential part of the wide-format print process.

For apparel decorators using DTFilm and DTG, dye-sublimation ink follows the same regulations. For example, OEKO-TEX ECO PASSPORT is one testing recognition that is applied to all textile-based inks and certifies inks are not harmful to human health. This is essential when creating apparel, especially for infants and children.

Expanding Apparel Decorator Applications

Dye-sublimation is extremely versatile and can greatly expand an apparel decorator’s business. Unlike DTFilm and DTG, dye-sublimation offers an

Supercharge your business’s productivity with the high-performance SureColor® F9570. Photo courtesy of Epson

expansive realm of printer sizes, ranging from desktop to 76-inches and above. By adding sublimated polyester textile offerings, textile applications expand to include full-size athletic wear, dri-fit apparel, loungewear (such as yoga pants), swimwear and more.

Because the dye-sublimation process is one in which the ink is fused into the fabric, textile output has a seamless, soft feel and primarily maintains its original hand feel. Sublimated fabrics also have a high rub resistance, and the colors will not rub off onto you or another layer of clothing. This is ideal for applications such as dri-fit shirts, exercise towels, yoga wear and blankets that come into direct contact with the body. These applications would not be a good fit for DTFilm, where its surface texture is noticeable.

When looking to invest in a dye-sublimation printer, consider its versatility and ink technology. Dye-sublimation requires exceptional color saturation and high contrast, so it’s ideal to invest in technology that offers a high-density black to ensure output has outstanding tonal transitions and grayscale. In addition, some printers offer spot colors, including fluorescent options, which are ideal for creating on-trend athleisure, safety wear and can produce textiles for new and emerging trends, such as tie-dye and neon clothing.

Pending printer size, dye-sublimation can further expand output opportunities outside of apparel to include soft signage, home décor, personalized gifts, photography applications, promotional items and more. Note this includes items such as plates, mugs and other drinkware.

Fitting into a DTFilm and DTG Workflow

For apparel decorators, dye-sublimation is a valuable addition to their toolkit, offering vibrant, long-lasting prints on polyester and specialty products.

Epson’s new SureColor F9570H offers advanced dye-sublimation transfer printing for sports and other decorated apparel. Photos courtesy of Epson

Adding dye-sublimation to an existing DTFilm workflow allows the apparel decorator a choice of which print method to use based on the incoming order and customer request. For textile orders that require an all-over print, large graphic, soft hand feel, or polyester or dri-fit material, dye-sublimation is a better solution. For low-run, personalized cotton shirts with smaller graphics, or 3D textiles such as hats and shoes, DTFilm is the more ideal and efficient solution.

For apparel decorators currently using DTG or DTFilm, integrating dye-sublimation should be a simple transition since they already have knowledge of apparel decoration, as well as experience using a heat press. This allows them to both fill the gap and expand their product offerings with minimal time and investment. After the initial investment, as the dye-sublimation portion of the business grows, apparel decorators can determine if a larger heat press is needed to meet incoming demand.

Decorators can mix and match technologies to make unique garments. They can use dye-sublimation to create a large, seamless design on a garment and personalize it with unique features added with DTFilm.

Furthermore, adding dye-sublimation allows customers to increase orders. If an apparel decorator has a loyal customer who continuously orders team T-shirts, that customer can now add matching tumblers, sunglasses straps, headbands, lanyards, keychains, practice bags and team banners. This not only increases order size and ROI but also strengthens customer loyalty and retention.

Maximizing ROI and Futureproofing

Integrating dye-sublimation into an existing DTG or DTFilm workflow should be an easy transition with an abundance of benefits for an apparel decorator. With a minimal first investment, apparel decorators can start filling the gap within textile offerings and potentially expand outside of textiles, growing their shop and tapping into new markets from sportswear to promotional products and personalized home textiles and gifts.

Again, in addition to textiles, there are boundless opportunities to sell personalized products and gifts, including custom laptop bags, tote bags, wood décor photo panels, smartwatch bands, and award plaques. Promoting personalized gifts for occasions like Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, Christmas and Hanukkah provide even more opportunities to drive sales and maximize ROI.

Starting small still offers expansive opportunities for an apparel decorator, and as the demand grows, so do the opportunities for larger orders with higher profit margins.

Lily Hunter is a product manager at Epson overseeing the SureColor F-Series and SureColor G-Series printers, a portfolio encompassing over a dozen direct-to-garment, direct-to-film and dye-sublimation printers. With over 25 years in the industry, she is responsible for product development, go-to-market strategies and managing cross-functional teams.

The post Weaving Dye-Sublimation into Apparel Workflows for Success appeared first on Impressions.

To see the complete list of 2025 Impressions Industry Impact Awards Winners, click here. Photo courtesy of Emerald City

The post 2025 III Awards – Digital Decorating Design of the Year: Emerald City Decoration “Down to Earth” Design appeared first on Impressions.

A rear-mounted exhaust hood for Vastex D-100 infrared conveyor dryers. Image courtesy of Vastex

Bethlehem, Pennsylvania—A new rear-mounted exhaust hood for Vastex D-100 infrared conveyor dryers exhausts fumes emitted from curing of direct-to-film (DTF) adhesives and collects glycol residue, it was announced by Mark Vasilantone, president.

“The rear exhaust removes harmful DTF fumes from the shop environment while collecting glycol condensate, protecting the operating staff as well as the dryer’s heating elements, making it a ‘must have’ for safety-conscious DTF printers,” he explains.

Independently powered, the exhaust hood snaps onto the rear of any D-100 dryer, and is offered as an option on new units, or separately to retrofit existing units. Variable controls for both heat intensity and conveyor speed allow fine-tuning of the curing process and rate at which items are being coated with DTF adhesives.

Configured for Precision Curing of DTF Transfers

The dryer is equipped with an 18 x 46 in. (45.7 x 117 cm) conveyor belt and a 16 in. (40.6 cm) square, 1,625-watt infrared heater which carries a 15-year warranty. Available in 120V or 240V versions, the dryer can be placed on a tabletop or utility cart and can be paired with a Vastex PTF-100 powder applicator to both coat and cure DTF-printed films. The dryer is also suitable for curing up to 110 plastisol-printed garments/h, or 50 garments/h screen printed with water-based ink or discharge.

Updated 4/24/25

The post Vastex D-100 Infrared Conveyor Dryers With Rear-Mounted Exhaust Hood for Custom DTF Apparel Decorating appeared first on Impressions.

M&R Printing Equipment, Inc. has announced the release of the POLARIS S4 Pretreat Unit, powered by Xaar’s inkjet technology, as part of M&Rs POLARIS S4 Industrial DTG Platform.

According to M&R, the POLARIS S4 Industrial DTG Platform “sets an industry standard for the newest generation of garment decoration technology. Designed to handle a sophisticated array of automation needs and quality requirements, the S4 Pretreat Unit digitally delivers pretreat chemistry exactly where it is needed behind each print.”

Per M&R, each pretreat is not only digitally targeted, but the density and amount of each pretreat is controlled “garment-to-garment” via the system’s integrated workflow software, a “breakthrough that allows for a wider range of fabric types, construction and colors to be explored without fear of “boxing” or UV staining associated with other pretreat solutions.”

According to M&R CEO Danny Sweem, “The release of the POLARIS S4 Digital Pretreat Unit revolutionizes direct-to-garment production by offering more garment options, better print quality and a streamlined production process…Our valued partnership with Xaar has uniquely expanded the capabilities of the M&R POLARIS S4 Industrial DTG Platform in a bold new way. With Xaar as our technology partner, we are excited to work together to develop the future of garment decoration for many years to come.”

“Xaar’s technology is driving transformation across numerous industries, and we are delighted that our innovative technology and long-standing expertise enabled us to complete this project with M&R in record time,” said Xaar CEO Johns Mills. “The POLARIS S4 exemplifies the power of collaboration across the industry and the major progress it can achieve.”

For more information about M&R Printing Equipment and its complete line of decorating equipment, which includes everything from an industry-leading line of screen-printing systems to the latest direct-to-film (DTF) printers, click here.

For more on Xaar, an inkjet specialist, providing printheads and technologies for OEM and UDI customers around the world, click here.

The post M&R, Xaar Partner on the POLARIS S4 Industrial DTG Pretreat Unit appeared first on Impressions.

Coming in the wake of the ROQ READY industrial pretreat system, ROQ introduces the ROQ SET, an entry-level direct-to-garment (DTG) pretreatment solution also designed to work in conjunction with the company’s high-throughput GO Direct-To-Garment printer.

The new stand-alone system brings an all-new level of efficiency, consistency and ease of maintenance, offering a robust tool to optimize pretreatment in the commercial garment printing space capable of processing 120 more garments in an hour.

Consistent DTG Coverage, Low Maintenance

With its 11 nozzles and precision Y-axis movement, the ROQ SET ensures even pretreatment application without banding, which in turn translates into reliable, high-quality results for users. Maintenance is minimized through the use of a cap station for nozzle soaking, automated purges and an end-of-cycle blow function, keeping nozzles in peak condition for sustained performance.

Highlights of ROQ SET DTG pre-treatment system include:

Fast Switching Between Pretreatments – The dual-tank system enables quick and clean transitions between light and dark pretreatment solutions in only five minutes, reducing fluid waste.

A Large Application Area – Covering an area of 500×700 mm, the ROQ SET is optimized to match the ROQ GO’s maximum print size capacity, ensuring full and even pretreatment coverage on a wide range of garment sizes.

Flexible Operating Modes – Select from Manual Mode for precise adjustments and testing or Automatic Mode for seamless production. Customize the amount and coverage of pretreatment directly from the control panel.

Easy Operation and Control – Designed for intuitive operation, the ROQ SET includes a dual-function pedal:

• Mode 1: Start or pause the cycle with a single click.
• Mode 2: Continuous operation with sustained pedal pressure.

For more on the new ROQ SET, click here. To see a video of the system at work, click here. For more on ROQ’s complete line of digital decorating and automatic screen-pinting and heat pressing equipment, click here.

The post ROQ SET: DTG Pretreatment System for ROQ GO appeared first on Impressions.

The facility is one of three, with other company offices located in Philadelphia and Canonsburg, Pennsylvania.

Founded in 1986, the company’s product line includes solutions for direct-to-substrate digital printing, direct-to-garment digital printing, screen printing, pad printing, hot stamping, heat transfer, cutters, vinyl, hotfix rhinestones, hotfix sequin embellishments and more.

Raffles winners at one of All American Print Supply’s 2024 open houses. Photo courtesy of All American Print Supply Co.

Per the company: “Explore our powerful line of innovative machines, meet our passionate team of experts, connect with business owners just like you at our upcoming open house. Learn about how Epson, DTF Station, STS, Ricoh printers and more have changed the game in direct-to-film (DTF) and direct-to-garment (DTG) printing. See them printing in person by checking out our live demonstrations, enjoy free food and refreshments, get some open house merch and enter our raffle for your chance to win a $500 store credit on us!”

Although the company includes several Fortune 500 companies among its customers, as well as a multitude of large, midsize and small businesses, it remains dedicated to nurturing small businesses as well.

“Our vision is to bring innovative, unique and quality products to the market while providing businesses with the product knowledge needed to succeed. This is all done while ensuring the highest level of customer service and support that our industry deserves,” the company says. “If you’ve been debating on whether you should be starting that printing business yet, allow us to show why we started our own business and why we strive to be the best provider in printing equipment, supplies and solutions.”

The All American Print Supply Co.’s Cerritos facility is located at 175112 Valley View Ave., Cerritos, California. The event will take places from 10 a.m.- to 4 p.m. (with the raffle held at 2 p.m.) Saturday, Feb. 1. Raffle prizes include: 1st place $500 store credit, 2nd place $250 store credit, 3rd place $100 store credit. Refer a friend and get an extra entry into the raffle. Winners must be present during the raffle and claim prizes within 24 hours. Unclaimed prizes will be raffled off to secondary winners.

Register your spot at the following URL: aaprintsupplyco.com/pages/welcome-to-ca-open-house?

The post All American Print Supply Hosting First Open House of 2025 in California appeared first on Impressions.

Ricoma CEO Henry Ma. Photo courtesy of Ricoma International

In a wide-ranging Q&A with Impressions Content Director, Adam Cort, Henry Ma, CEO of Ricoma International shares his thoughts on everything from advice for entrepreneurs entering the custom apparel market to strategies for building a client base and why the custom apparel business can be such a satisfying one. For more on Ricoma, and its wide-ranging line of embroidery, DTF, DTG and heat-pressing equipment and materials, go to ricoma.com/US.

Adam Cort: What inspired you to get involved in the custom apparel industry, and what makes it such a great opportunity for entrepreneurs today?

Henry Ma: I grew up surrounded by the custom apparel industry, and I saw a unique opportunity to make custom apparel equipment more accessible to entrepreneurs, empowering them to unleash their creativity. Back then, the industry lacked the abundance of information that’s readily available today, and we wanted to be pioneers in sharing this knowledge with the average consumer.

Over the last decade, technology has advanced tremendously, making equipment far more affordable and accessible than ever before. This evolution has created an incredible opportunity for aspiring entrepreneurs to step into the industry with the tools and guidance they need to succeed. By bridging the gap between accessibility and education, we aim to help others turn their passion for custom apparel into a thriving business.

AC: How has the custom apparel industry changed over the years, and what do you think makes now a good time to start a business in this space?

HM: Custom apparel equipment and technology have evolved over the years, with new decoration technologies emerging and features that make it easy for consumers to operate the machinery. The affordability of the equipment needed to get started in the custom apparel industry is one of the reasons why now is a good time to start a business in this space. On top of that, the communities of people that share information and insight about the industry has also grown tremendously over the years. People in this industry are very willing to help one another and that level of access to support within a large community helps newcomers avoid common pitfalls and have a higher chance of success.

AC: What are the essential pieces of equipment someone needs to get started with custom apparel?

A high-quality heat press is critical to custom apparel decorating for use in a wide range of applications. Photo courtesy of Ricoma International

HM: To get started with custom apparel, there are a few essential pieces of equipment that can set you up for success. A heat press is a must-have—it’s one of the most versatile and cost-effective tools for beginners, especially if you’re on a tight budget. You can easily purchase ready-made transfers online at a low cost, like with our new DTF (direct-to-transfer) program, and press them onto garments, allowing you to start creating custom apparel with minimal upfront investment. Plus, a heat press is crucial for many printing methods, such as direct-to-garment (DTG) printing, where it’s used to cure the design. It’s also great for prepping garments by smoothing and drying them before any application, ensuring a professional finish.

Once you’ve mastered the basics, an embroidery machine is a great next step. Embroidery is considered a premium decoration method with higher perceived value, which means higher profit margins. Unlike printing, embroidery offers unmatched durability and longevity, making it a favorite for professional uniforms, caps and other high-end products. If you can master embroidery, you open the door to a highly profitable segment of the custom apparel market that sets your business apart.

Starting with these two tools—a heat press and an embroidery machine—provides a solid foundation to grow your business while diversifying your service offerings and maximizing profitability.

The Right Decorating Equipment for Your Custom Apparel Company

AC: How do you decide between different equipment options like embroidery machines, DTF printers, or DTG printers for a new business?

HM: Choosing between equipment options like embroidery machines, and DTF printers or DTG printers depends on your business goals, target market and desired results. Each option offers unique benefits, so understanding your needs is key.

Direct-to-transfer systems, like the Ricoma Luminaris DTF Printer, can be used to customize a wide range of articles. Photo courtesy of Ricoma International

DTF printers are excellent for high-volume production, as they can print over 100 transfers per hour. This makes them ideal if you have a steady stream of clients or large orders to fulfill. However, DTF does require an additional step of heat pressing each design onto the garment.

DTG printers, on the other hand, print directly onto the fabric, producing slightly longer-lasting prints compared to DTF. Both methods offer high-quality, durable results, but DTG requires garments to be pre-treated (or purchasing pre-treated apparel), adding an extra step. Printing services like DTF and DTG are in high demand due to their ease of use and vibrant results. However, they face stiff competition since printing is easier to learn and more widely offered.

Embroidery machines, while requiring a higher skill level and learning curve, can set your business apart. Embroidery is a premium, timeless application that offers unparalleled durability and perceived value. The market for embroidery tends to be less saturated than printing, which can lead to higher margins. If you’re willing to master embroidery, you’ll be able to offer a service that stands out as both high-quality and long-lasting.

Systems like the Ricoma Vision DTG-Printer are easy to use and provide stunning results . Photo courtesy of Ricoma International

Ultimately, your choice should align with your business model. For example, if you’re creating simple tourist tees or vacation merchandise, a heat press with pre-made transfers might suffice. But if you’re targeting high-end corporate clients or creating premium, custom designs, embroidery or DTG printing could be a better fit. Starting with a clear vision of your target market and production goals will help you choose the equipment that’s right for you.

 AC: What initial investments should someone expect when starting a custom apparel business, and what are some tips to manage costs?

HM: Starting a custom apparel business requires thoughtful investments, but with smart planning, you can manage costs effectively. The biggest initial expense is equipment, which depends on your focus. For instance, a heat press is an affordable starting point, allowing you to create a variety of products with minimal investment. If you’re aiming for higher-value offerings, embroidery machines or printing equipment like DTF or DTG printers are excellent options, though they come with higher price tags.

You’ll also need materials like blanks, thread, ink or transfer films, which are essential for your production process. To manage costs and ensure you never run out when you need them most, Ricoma offers a convenient Subscribe and Save program. This allows you to have these supplies delivered on a schedule that works for you while saving a little on each order, keeping your operations running smoothly and efficiently. You should also create a wholesale account to ensure you’re maximizing your savings on blanks.

Marketing and Standing Out in the Custom Apparel Market

AC: What’s the best way for new business owners to stand out in a competitive market and what are some initial marketing tips that you recommend?

HM: For new custom apparel business owners, standing out in a competitive market is all about leveraging your unique strengths as a small business. One of the best ways to differentiate yourself is by focusing on custom, personalized work. Large businesses often lack the time and flexibility to handle small, detailed custom orders, but as a small business, you can fill that gap by offering tailored solutions that meet specific customer needs. Whether it’s one-off designs, intricate embroidery, or fast turnaround times for small orders, your ability to cater to unique requests can set you apart and create loyal customers.

Another key advantage is providing exceptional, personalized customer service. While larger companies may struggle to maintain a personal touch, you can go above and beyond by building relationships with your clients. Take the time to understand their needs, offer guidance on design choices and provide proactive updates on their orders. This level of care not only creates a positive experience but also encourages repeat business and word-of-mouth referrals.

From a marketing perspective, start by tapping into your local community. Partner with small businesses, schools or organizations that need custom apparel. Word-of-mouth referrals from satisfied customers are incredibly powerful, so focus on delivering quality work that gets people talking. To expand your reach, optimize your online presence by creating a professional, SEO-friendly website with examples of your work, easy ways to contact you, and clear calls to action.

Social media is another invaluable tool for showcasing your capabilities. Post consistently on platforms like Instagram, Facebook and TikTok, and highlight your custom projects, behind-the-scenes processes and customer testimonials. Engage with your audience regularly to build trust and community.

Once you’ve built a strong foundation through referrals, local partnerships and organic social media efforts, you can explore paid advertising to scale your reach. By focusing on personalized service, custom work, and community connections, you can carve out a niche that helps your small business thrive, even in a competitive market.

AC: What are the common challenges new entrepreneurs face in the custom apparel industry, and how can they overcome feeling overwhelmed by technical aspects like digitizing or learning how to use equipment?

 HM: One of the most common hurdles new entrepreneurs face is feeling overwhelmed by the technical aspects of the business, like learning how to digitize designs or operate equipment. This is completely normal—no one starts as an expert, but with persistence and the right tools, you can gain the skills you need to succeed.

The key to overcoming these challenges is leveraging the resources available to you. For instance, many equipment manufacturers, like Ricoma, provide comprehensive training and support to help you get started. This includes free onboarding sessions, live training with an instructor and extensive libraries of tutorial videos that walk you through everything from operating your machine to mastering digitizing software. Additionally, joining online communities of other business owners in the industry can provide invaluable support. Platforms like Facebook groups or industry forums allow you to ask questions, share experiences and learn from others who have been in your shoes.

Another common challenge is managing the learning curve while still delivering quality products to your customers. My advice here is to start with simpler projects while you build your confidence and skills. You don’t have to take on everything at once—focus on mastering one process at a time.

When it comes to digitizing, many beginners find it intimidating at first, but with practice, it becomes second nature. If it feels like too much to tackle right away, you can outsource your digitizing to professionals while you focus on growing your business. Over time, as you gain more experience, you can bring digitizing in-house to have more control over your designs and cut costs.

Finally, time management and balancing all the moving parts of a business can be tough for new entrepreneurs. To stay organized, create systems for scheduling, pricing, and order management. Many businesses overlook the importance of having these foundational processes in place, but they make a huge difference in managing your workload and reducing stress.

Scaling Up Your Business

 AC: How can a small custom apparel business scale up and successfully expand into additional services?

 HM: Scaling up a custom apparel business starts with diversification. Once you have a steady flow of clients, expanding into additional services is one of the best ways to grow your revenue and customer base. For example, if your business is primarily focused on embroidery, adding DTF printing allows you to cater to a wider range of customer needs, from high-volume printed designs to more intricate embroidery projects. Offering both services gives your clients more options and positions your business as a one-stop shop for custom apparel.

To make this transition smoothly, start by analyzing your customer base and identifying the most in-demand services. If many of your clients are asking for printed designs, DTF printing is a natural next step.

Investing in new equipment can feel daunting, but many suppliers offer training and support to help you get started. Focus on mastering the basics of the other service and leverage your existing reputation and relationships to market your new service. Reach out to your current clients and let them know you’re expanding your offerings. This not only drives immediate business but also reinforces your position as a versatile and reliable provider. Scaling doesn’t have to mean overextending—expand strategically by introducing services that align with your current operations.

AC: What’s the most rewarding part of starting a custom apparel business?

HM: Although I don’t run a custom apparel business myself, I’ve had the privilege of working closely with thousands of entrepreneurs in this industry, and I often hear directly from our clients about what makes it so rewarding. The most fulfilling part, they tell me, is the ability to bring ideas to life and see their creativity turned into tangible products that people love. There’s a unique sense of pride in creating something that brings joy and meaning to others.

Another rewarding aspect is the freedom and flexibility that come with running your own business. Many of our clients talk about how this industry allows them to take control of their future, set their own schedules and build something that aligns with their passions. It’s also incredibly gratifying to watch their businesses grow, from taking on their first client to expanding their offerings and achieving financial independence.

AC: What advice would you give to someone who is passionate about custom apparel but hesitant to take the leap into entrepreneurship?

HM: If you’re passionate about custom apparel but hesitant to take the leap into entrepreneurship, my advice is simple: just start. Don’t overthink it, don’t wait for the “perfect” time—because the perfect time doesn’t exist. The truth is, you’ll never feel 100 percent ready, and that’s okay. What matters is taking that first step.

Many people let fear of the unknown or lack of experience hold them back, but here’s the thing: you’ll figure it out as you go. You don’t need to have everything mapped out or be an expert from day one. Start small—get a heat press or an embroidery machine, take on a few orders, and let the process teach you. The beauty of this industry is that you can start part-time or even from your home and grow at your own pace.

You’re not alone, either. There are countless resources, communities, and support systems to help you succeed. You don’t need to have all the answers to get started—you just need to believe in yourself enough to take that first step.

For more on Ricoma, its complete line of custom apparel-decorating equipment and materials, and its extensive training and financing resources, click here.

The post Ricoma CEO Henry Ma on Getting Started in Decorated Apparel appeared first on Impressions.

Adam Cort: Epson has been putting a lot of time and effort into developing its DTG/DTF Hybrid Printer Line. Could you describe how these systems work and the advantages they offer to decorators? 

 Tim Check: For over a decade, Epson has dedicated itself to developing high-quality DTG printers designed to make the life of a garment decorator easier. By developing equipment that delivers consistency and reliability, shop owners can focus on growing their business, rather than troubleshooting equipment.

Recently, Epson has been focusing on developing its DTG and DTFilm hybrid printers; engineered to bring reliability, color consistency and ease of use to garment decorators. DTG and DTFilm are two prevalent methods. These hybrid solutions give garment decorators more tools in their chest, providing the ability to determine the best solution for each print by taking design intricacy, hand feel and cost into consideration. These solutions grant more freedom to the designer to bring their full vision to life, knowing items can be produced in a cost-effective manner.

Maintenance is a snap with the Epson SureColor F1070, shown here in DTG mode. Image courtesy of Epson

Each print method has its advantages. DTG is ideal for creating larger, full-color graphics with intricate details. With DTG, a garment decorator can produce a high-quality, full-color, vibrant fashion T-shirt with a very soft hand feel. These are generally premium products and work best when printing directly to the garment. DTFilm is ideal for producing smaller prints, such as chest pocket logos, or printing and transferring graphics to a hard-to-print area—such as a shirt sleeve. With DTFilm, a garment decorator can print one sheet with multiple images or logos that can be applied quickly and cost-effectively.

Additionally, garment decorators must consider the fabrics they are working with when determining the best print method. DTG works well with cotton blended fabrics, while DTFilm works on just about any type of fabric, including fabric blends that are not typically supported by DTG printing, such as 100-percent polyester, nylon and other quick-drying, athletic fabric, as well as on unusually shaped items like hats, shoes, tote bags and more.

In today’s market, there’s an emphasis on sustainability and as a result, there is a shift away from mass production. DTG and DTFilm print technology supports orders as they come in and can reduce excess inventory and waste once a new trend comes along. The newer models, produced by reputable brands, provide a consistent, reliable hardware solution that make it easier for garment decorators to satisfy their customers, providing options to potentially expand shop capabilities and create long-lasting, durable garments sustainably and efficiently.

AC: For those interested in taking the DTG/DTF hybrid route, what factors should they bear in mind when deciding between, say, the smaller F1070 and the mid-level F2270 model?

TC: For those who are new to the industry, or those coming in with a consumer-grade product and want to further expand into garment decorating, it would be ideal to start with an entry-level hybrid DTG/DTFilm printer. This provides the print shop the opportunity to become familiar with both printing methods. Having the ability to print to film transfers can expand product offerings to polyester, cotton/poly blends, tri-blends and more—even products outside of the textile space.

The entry-level SureColor® F1070 also has the ability to help take care of itself, with integrated proactive and reactive maintenance features, making it easier for the entry-level garment decorator to focus on creating the best design, rather than on ongoing printer maintenance tasks.

A hybrid DTG and DTFilm system provides the flexibility for garment decorators to select the best print method for each product. Starting with an entry-level solution provides a cost-effective way of getting into the industry with the possibility of expanding offering without a large upfront investment.

For decorators looking to take their productions runs to the next level, the Epson SureColor F2270 DTG/DTF hybrid printer makes for a great choice. Photo courtesy of Epson

For those more experienced garment decorators or print shops looking for larger capacity, the mid-range SureColor F2270 or high-capacity SureColor F3070 can produce larger images, support thicker garments and offer print shops increased efficiency and productivity. A print shop’s needs vary—for instance, a screen-printing business requiring a quick turnaround on three dozen shirts would benefit from a mid or high-capacity DTG printer as it’s an ideal solution for on-demand orders.

 AC: For those interested in exploring DTG/DTF, what’s involved in terms of things like training and maintenance when working with these kinds of systems?

TC: Over the past decade, significant advancements in DTG/DTFilm technology have impacted training and maintenance. Previously, those operating garment printers needed to have a technical background and be very comfortable performing ongoing maintenance tasks, such as ink priming and purging. These tasks could take hours, greatly reducing the time spent printing and creating sellable goods. However, stemming from the work of Epson, there is now a focus on creating technology that actually works and drastically reduces maintenance, and the amount of time spent on training employees.

Today, some printers can help take care of themselves with integrated proactive and reactive maintenance features. For example, Epson DTG/DTFilm printers leverage Nozzle Verification Technology that can detect nozzle clogs and printhead issues that automatically compensates or correct the problem without a print operator. These printers can monitor and handle various maintenance tasks on their own, reducing the number of wasted prints due to poor print quality and the need for intensive operator technical training.

When training to use the printers, it’s important to understand how to get great results. To learn the best techniques, as well as tips and tricks, manufacturers and dealers offer a variety of both video and in-person training sessions. For example, the Epson Print Academy on YouTube offers videos designed to help printer operators understand their equipment and produce high-quality sellable goods.

Additionally, learning the different types of fabrics for those interested in garment printing is critical during the training process. Understanding the fabric options available, their benefits and how to design for each fabric type helps the garment decorator meet customer expectations. Whether they want a soft fashion garment or durable workwear, the fabric selected will help customers make their final decision. When learning to design for fabric, unlike other print styles, it’s essential to lean into the negative space—having empty space on a garment allows the fabric to breathe better, regardless of print method, providing a better feel.

AC: The recently introduced SureColor F1070 Hybrid DTG/DTFilm Printer is an especially interesting system. Could you maybe give us an overview of the various features it has to offer?

TC: The SureColor F1070 is a mini version of our mid-production SureColor F2270. For the entry-level model, Epson distilled intuitive, production-level features into a smaller footprint. A few of these features include:

• Nozzle Verification Technology: The F1070 incorporates a PrecisionCore® Micro TFP® printhead with Nozzle Verification Technology to consistently deliver high-quality prints. This system can identify nozzle clogs and compensate for or correct the issue to help ensure consistent print quality.
• Auto Height Adjustment: The feature automatically measures garment height during the loading process to automatically raise or lower the garment for optimal print quality without user intervention.
• Ink Chemistry: Touting renowned UltraChrome® DG2 inks, in a sealed ink system, this ink chemistry is ECO PASSPORT by OKEO-TEX and organic certified, ensuring garments created on the F1070 with UltraChrome DG2 inks are safe for users.

Purpose-built by Epson, the F1070 is part of the Epson ecosystem designed to simplify the printing process. This ecosystem includes compatible software to support an efficient workflow. The F1070 comes equipped with robust Epson Garment Creator 2 software as well as Epson Cloud Solution PORT®,¹ Epson’s cloud-based monitoring platform that supports live production monitoring, including output cost estimates and printer utilization statistics. [Ed Note: All features of this system require an active Internet connection and the use of a supported browser.] Additionally, to support a color managed workflow, Epson offers the SD-10 spectrophotometer to help garment decorators accurately identify and recreate colors to ensure customer color satisfaction.

For more on Epson and its line of hybrid DTG/DFT printers, click here.

The post A Look at Hybrid DTG/DTF Printing with Epson’s Tim Check appeared first on Impressions.

The Mimaki TS330-3200DS 3.2-meter printer is the best of both worlds for creating high-value textile applications. It doubles as a sublimation unit for printing to transfer paper and as a direct-to-textile unit for printing on polyester fabrics. This 128-inch-wide printer can image transfer media or fabrics at production print speeds of up to 968-square-feet per hour.

The TS330-3200DS printer utilizes a hybrid mechanism to accommodate printing on transfer sublimation paper or on fabric before being transferred for finishing. For transfer sublimation, a platen is installed under the active print area. This platen is easily removed by the user, revealing an ink-receiving spacer for direct-to-fabric printing. This enables the printer to be used for flags and banners that require pass-through, and for transfers to thick and stretchy fabric that are best handled with transfer paper. It can also be used for direct-to-fabric printing on a range of polyester materials including heavy coverage backlit applications.

Based on proven Mimaki 330 printheads and including many Mimaki Core Technologies, the TS330-3200DS printer is an ideal all-in-one unit for creating a range of digital textile applications including backlit fabric displays, SEG frame printing, flags, theatrical backdrops, POP displays, interior décor, and more.

The post Mimaki USA Launches New Production Hybrid Digital Textile Printer appeared first on Impressions.

Since its founding in 1999, STS has built a robust history of producing quality digital printing inks, establishing itself as a key partner in the global printing industry, the company says.

STS Inks entered the U.S. market in 2005 with a manufacturing facility in New York. It relocated to Boca Raton in 2009 to accommodate its expanding operations.

Dye Sublimation, Custom Apparel Decoration

“As a world leader in the wide format, industrial, promotional, textile and apparel digital ink markets, STS is recognized for applying cost-effective and cutting-edge technologies to streamline processes and transform ideas into reality,” said company CTO Shahar Turgeman.

Today, capping off a quarter-century in the business, STS offers a comprehensive range of products and services, including:

• Plug & Print: an innovative ink-matching technology that allows users to replace certain OEM cartridges with STS compatible ink replacements, seamlessly ensuring no noticeable difference in color or print quality while saving time and money.
• STS DTF Modular Systems: Developed in collaboration with Mutoh Japan, the system simplifies the creation of custom T-shirts and apparel, offering a cost-effective and hassle-free solution.
• Dye-Sub inks: Catering to the growing textile and personalized products market, these high-performance inks improve prints on polyester fabrics and other receptive substrates, ideal for vibrant, durable, and washable prints.
• Printer Accessories and Tech Support: A wide range of accessories and replacement parts designed to ensure optimal printer performance, along with comprehensive tech support and customer service.

“We take pride in our strong relationships with OEM customers, ensuring a thorough understanding of their requirements and delivering support throughout the product lifecycle,” said STS Inks CEO Adam Shafran. “Our manufacturing principles are based on continuous improvement and efficiency.”

Today, STS’s impact extends globally, with distribution in over 160 countries across North America, Europe, South America, the Middle East, Africa, Asia, and Oceania. This extensive network highlights our dedication to providing high-quality products and exceptional service worldwide. For more information, visit stsinks.com.

The post STS Inks Celebrating 25 Years appeared first on Impressions.