The MerchMaker heat press offers a rare combination of top level features, streamlined design, and affordability, making it a smart entry point for entrepreneurs and small businesses ready to launch or expand their custom apparel operations.

Designed to help garment decorators achieve professional results with every press, the MerchMaker combines smart functionality with space-saving portability. It’s the ideal solution for startups, crafters, small shops, and on-the-go entrepreneurs who want to take on more custom orders with confidence and consistency, with features not found in other presses at this price point.

Engineered with both function and flexibility in mind, the MerchMaker allows decorators to press with precision in even the smallest of workspaces or live events, pop-ups, or market spaces.

A New Standard in Entry-Level Heat Presses

The MerchMaker stands out with features typically reserved for higher-end machines, including:

• Dual Functionality: use as a traditional clamshell or pull-out draw press
• Smart Display: LCD screen shows time, temperature, and pressure for consistent results
• Fast Heating: heats quickly to 300°F – ideal for transfers and HTV
• Perfect Pressure: patented over-the-center pressure adjustment ensures even application
• Lightweight & Portable: designed for tight workspaces and on-the-go availability
• Safety Certified: (UL/ULC/CE), with 110v standard operation

Getting Started Made Easier with Bonus Marketing Kit

To support new decorators, Transfer Express is including a free Marketing Kit (a $75 value) with every MerchMaker purchase. The kit includes heat transfers samples, educational materials, how-to guides, application charts, and more tools to help decorators promote, produce, and profit from selling custom apparel successfully.

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This strategic collaboration gives Ninja Transfers customers access to a curated selection of industry-leading heat press machines, trusted by pros and hobbyists alike, now available at NinjaTransfers.com. These presses are fully optimized for Direct-to-Film (DTF) transfers offering customers the tools they need to bring production in-house, boost profits, and scale with confidence.

“We’re always looking for ways to support our community of Ninjas,” said Victor Ilisco, Director of Business Development. “Partnering with Heat Press Nation lets us connect our customers with tools that match the quality of our transfers—making it easier for them to take ownership of their craft and grow on their own terms.”

Key Benefits of the Partnership:

● Boost Profit Margins: Bringing heat pressing in-house drastically reduces costs per garment compared to outsourcing.

● Increase Quality Control: Control every aspect of application for consistent, professional results.

● Enable Business Growth: Perfect for creators ready to scale — whether starting a side hustle or running a growing brand.

By integrating equipment and materials under one roof, Ninja Transfers continues to eliminate friction for creators—making it easier than ever to go from idea to execution.

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Taking place on Wednesday, July 17th, from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM at Lane Seven’s Irwindale location, this half-day event will provide valuable insights, practical strategies, and expert guidance to help attendees enhance operational efficiency, expand their product offerings, and maximize profitability through heat printing.

Partnering with Lane Seven Apparel, STAHLS’ Heat Press Pro Day will offer attendees an opportunity to engage in high-impact, hands-on training led by industry experts. Participants will gain real-world strategies to improve operational efficiency, harness the power of e-commerce, and diversify their product offerings with heat printing. In addition, attendees will learn critical pricing calculations and business strategies to ensure they are maximizing their bottom line.

“We are excited to provide an opportunity for attendees to not only learn from the experts but to experience firsthand how heat printing can transform their business,” said Kelly Walters, STAHLS’ Director of Experiential Marketing. “This hands-on event is designed to help decorators enhance production and find new ways to grow in a competitive market, with live demos and real techniques they can instantly incorporate in their operations.”

The Heat Press Pro Day Experience:

• Hands-On Training with Industry Experts: Engage in interactive sessions covering the entire decoration process, from setup to application.
• Comprehensive Business Growth Strategies: Gain insights to increase production efficiency and enhance profitability, with new ways to stay ahead in a competitive industry.
• Exclusive Merch & Promos: Receive a curated set of branded merchandise and exclusive product credits to showcase what’s possible with STAHLS’ products.
• Networking Opportunities: Connect with fellow decorators and entrepreneurs, share experiences, and foster a supportive community.

Bonus: Each attendee will receive a $50 product credit to be added to their STAHLS’ account after the event.

With attendance limited to 100 participants, Heat Press Pro Day promises an intimate, impactful experience that allows for personalized interaction with experts. Interested decorators should register as soon as possible to secure their spot. For more details and to register, visit transferexpress.com/heat-press- accessories/heat-press-pro-day.

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Both shows are set to highlight cutting-edge trends, techniques, and business strategies in the decorated apparel industry. Organizers are seeking presentations that offer fresh insight, hands-on training, and actionable takeaways for attendees ranging from new entrepreneurs to seasoned print shop owners.

Impressions Long Beach 2026

Widely regarded as the premier event for the apparel decoration community, Impressions Long Beach will return in 2026 with a strong focus on innovation and skill development. The call for speakers encourages proposals on topics such as screen printing, embroidery, heat printing, direct-to-garment (DTG), direct-to-film (DTF), e-commerce, and shop management.

Submit to Long Beach: Impressions Long Beach 2026 Speaker Submission

Impressions Atlantic City 2026

As a key regional expo, Impressions Atlantic City is known for blending hands-on learning with East Coast energy. The 2026 show will once again offer top-tier education for print professionals and small business owners looking to grow their decorated apparel operations.

Submit to Atlantic City: Impressions Atlantic City 2026 Speaker Submission

Interested individuals are encouraged to share unique perspectives, industry expertise, and practical tools that can elevate the skills and business success of the Impressions Expo audience. Speaker submissions are being accepted now through the official Sessionboard portals linked above.

For more information on the Impressions Expo series, visit impressionsexpo.com.

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This new tool allows users to generate bold, original artwork using AI — no design experience required. Whether you’re launching your first shirt or adding fresh styles to your storefront, the AI Art Tool makes high-quality, production-ready art accessible to everyone.

At the heart of this release is the tool’s intuitive prompt guide, which walks users through exactly how to describe their vision. From modern logo designs to vintage-style graphics, the guide provides examples and structures that eliminate guesswork — making it easier than ever to bring ideas to life.

“We built this for people who know what they want but aren’t artists,” said Victor Ilisco, Director of Business Development. “Now anyone can create stunning designs, faster — and get them printed with a few clicks.”

But the AI Art Tool is just one part of what makes Ninja Printhouse a vital asset for modern print shops.

Think of Ninja Printhouse as an extension of your shop when you can’t handle the volume. Whether you’re understaffed, overbooked, or temporarily out of capacity, Ninja Printhouse helps you stop saying no to orders — and say yes every time.

Even if it’s just 5 percent of the time, those missed orders add up. With Ninja Print House, you can grow without overextending your team, keep customers happy, and fulfill orders seamlessly under your brand — without skipping a beat.

Key Benefits of AI Art Tool:

● AI-generated artwork in seconds

● Guided prompt builder for consistently great results

● Built into Ninja Printhouse — no extra tools or subscriptions needed

● Artwork is designed to be production-ready for apparel customization.

Ninja Printhouse remains focused on helping print shops scale without stress. From overcoming bottlenecks to unlocking new product lines, this platform is built to support growth, protect margins, and help shops say yes to every opportunity.

To explore the new AI Art Tool and start creating, visit: www.ninjaprinthouse.com/design/.

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The 30-inch BN2-30 offers outstanding print quality and precision contour cutting, making it ideal for the creation of graphics, photos, and text in any desired shape. While it has a small enough footprint for operation in print environments with limited space, the BN2-30 offers the imaging capabilities, integrated cutting functionality, and productivity needed to quickly produce high-quality T-shirt transfer graphics, yard signage, posters, stickers and labels, uniquely shaped displays, and more. The BN2-30 is designed to take full advantage of Roland DG’s high-quality Eco-Sol MAX 2 eco-solvent inks available in CMYK and White.

The BD-12 UV flatbed printer is designed for high-definition direct-to-object printing on a vast array of three-dimensional objects up to A4 size and four inches (102 mm) in height, such as smartphone covers, notepads, sports memorabilia, giftware, fashion accessories, and promotional items. Optional rotary devices are also available that allow users to print easily and effectively on cylindrical objects up to two inches (50 mm) in diameter, such as cosmetics and travel items. The BD-12 benefits from specially formulated EUV5 UV inks in CMYK and White that are compatible with a range of materials, from soft goods like fabric and leather to hard goods such as wood and plastics. Users can also take advantage of EUV5 clear ink to incorporate gloss or matte finishes and eye-catching special effects, including simulated 3D embossing, into their prints. An optional Primer ink is available as well, for better adhesion when printing directly on glass and metal objects.

“The introduction of these two versatile, affordable, and simple-to-use desktop printers expands and strengthens our VersaSTUDIO product lineup,” said Roland DGA’s Product Manager of Digital Print, Daniel Valade. “Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a company owner who wants to improve control and profitability by bringing outsourced production in-house, or an educational supervisor seeking to expose students to the latest STEAM technologies, these printers will increase your creative opportunities and help take your business or program to the next level.”

Both the BN2-30 and BD-12 are equipped with technologically advanced printheads that deliver high-resolution output and offer multiple print modes ideal for different applications, making it easy for anyone to achieve professional-quality results. These machines are also designed for simple operation and optimum convenience. Each device has only a single power button – all other functions are performed with the included Utility software, which features easy-to-understand icons and quick, intuitive access to menu items.

The BN2-30 and BD-12 also come standard with FlexiDESIGNER VersaSTUDIO Edition software that can be used for everything from design creation to printing, as well as VersaWorks 7 – Roland DG’s most advanced, user-friendly RIP software to date. VersaWorks 7, which now supports both Windows and macOS, is packed with powerful tools and features that help maximize print quality, improve efficiency, and increase productivity. With FlexiDESIGNER and VersaWorks 7 included, even those who have never used design and output software before can create the items they desire quickly and easily.

Users also have access to Roland DG Connect, a comprehensive cloud-based platform that enables print professionals to manage their entire print operations with a single app. Roland DG Connect provides you with a detailed understanding of your printers while keeping your devices running at peak performance, reducing downtime, and maximizing efficiency. It also puts everything you need to create, optimize, and grow – from real-time monitoring and business insights to inventory management tools and seamless support – at your fingertips.

The BN2-30 and BD-12 are priced to be affordable for first-time users. Both products are also backed up by comprehensive manufacturer warranties, and optional extended maintenance contracts are available for extra peace of mind.

To learn more about the new VersaSTUDIO BN2-30, visit rolanddga.com/bn2-30. For more information on the new BD-12, visit https://www.rolanddga.com/bd-12.

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Rooted in years of experience producing merch at the highest level, COLLECXION offers a curated range of core styles—from domestically sourced tees and hoodies to elevated cut & sew pieces and custom denim — each crafted with the perfect balance of fit, fabric, and form. Whether you’re launching your next tour capsule, building out a lifestyle brand, or scaling your private label offering, COLLECXION provides the foundation to bring your vision to life.

“COLLECXION is intentionally designed to offer a seamless blend of options, recognizing that the needs of our industry often demand flexibility and quick turnarounds,” said Rich Santo, Culture Studio CEO.

In addition to our signature blanks, COLLECXION offers full-service private label support — including woven tags, branded neck prints, custom packaging, and cut & sew development — making it easy to deliver retail-ready garments under your own label.

COLLECXION is now available to all Culture Studio partners through direct wholesale and custom production channels.

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In this initiative, launched in May in honor of Memorial Day, Infinity Her will donate a portion of proceeds from its Hattie Unstructured All Over Print Cap in patriotic Navy and Red with White Stars to Wounded Warriors Family Support. The initiative doesn’t end there—donations will continue during Independence Day in July and Veterans Day in November, allowing customers to give back during key moments of national reflection.

Wounded Warriors Family Support is dedicated to serving the families of those who have been wounded, injured, or killed in combat. Recognizing that the effects of war extend beyond the battlefield, WWFS provides comprehensive support—including financial assistance, caregiver resources, family retreats, and educational programs—to help families heal both physically and emotionally. Since its founding in 2003, the organization has supported more than 1.4 million veteran families, becoming a trusted and vital resource for those who have sacrificed so much for our country.

“As a company, it is our privilege to donate to organizations that are boots on the ground,” says Ramona Watson, V.P of Product Development and Marketing at Infinity Her. “It is the least we can do, especially with the Wounded Warriors organization, because soldiers give everything to help protect this country. We are thankful for these groups and want to help them keep doing more of the wonderful things they do.”

Blank versions of top-selling Infinity Her styles are carried by Counselor Top 40 supplier Sportsman Cap & Bag and sold through distributors nationwide for use in the promotional industry. To find a distributor location visit www.sportsmancaps.com.

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At the heart of the Hanes legacy is the iconic Beefy-T®, a style that helped define the printwear category and continues to be a customer favorite for its comfort, durability and printability. Hanes is the top-selling apparel brand in the U.S. and brings over 110 years of heritage in quality and innovation to the market.

With this exclusive partnership, S&S will not only carry the full range of Hanes styles but will also offer deeper inventory positions and enhanced availability across its national distribution network—ensuring decorators and promotional partners get what they need, when they need it.

“This is more than an agreement—it’s an evolution of one of the industry’s most enduring relationships,” said Mike Faircloth, HanesBrands President Global Operations. “Hanes has been a foundational brand in printwear for decades. With S&S as our exclusive distributor, we’re doubling down on that legacy while positioning ourselves to lead in the next chapter of the market.”

The partnership comes on the heels of S&S’s successful integration with alphabroder—creating a unified platform that offers customers expanded product access, faster delivery and unmatched service. With over 6 million square feet of warehouse space, advanced automation technologies, and a portfolio of more than 100 top industry and exclusive brands, S&S has established itself as the leading technology-enabled, customer-focused distributor in the channel.

“We’re incredibly proud to deepen our relationship with Hanes, a brand that represents both heritage and reliability,” said Frank Myers, CEO of S&S Activewear. “As a unified company, we’re in a better position than ever to bring more of Hanes’s trusted styles to more customers, more efficiently while continuing to raise the bar on service.”

Through this strategic alignment, customers can expect:

• A focused and expanded Hanes assortment, available exclusively from S&S
• Deeper inventories across S&S’s nationwide network of distribution centers
• Faster shipping and delivery windows for Hanes styles
• Seamless ordering through the unified S&S website and service model
• Customers may continue to purchase Hanes products from other distributors through the transition period. This partnership will be fully operational by December 31, 2025.

This agreement reflects a shared belief that the future of the printwear industry will be shaped by deeper, more strategic partnerships between manufacturers and distributors—focused on long-term brand building, supply chain alignment and delivering unmatched value to customers.

“As we continue to grow, our focus remains on supporting the industry’s most trusted brands,” added Myers. “We believe strong partnerships with manufacturers like Hanes are what drive value and progress for the industry and our customers.”

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All Hotronix models are in stock and ready to ship, ensuring decorators can maintain production schedules without the uncertainty tied to overseas equipment sourcing.

“When decorators invest in Hotronix, they’re getting U.S.-engineered quality, next-day shipping, and the confidence of long-term reliability,” the company stated. “It’s smart business protection in today’s unpredictable market.”

Key Benefits of Hotronix Heat Presses:

Tariff-Free Assurance: Domestic production means no surprise cost increases from international trade shifts.

Reliable Availability: All models ship quickly from U.S. warehouses, with consistent stock and short lead times.

Built in the USA: Each unit is engineered to meet rigorous performance standards for durability and consistent results.

Lifetime Warranty: Every Hotronix press includes a lifetime warranty on the heating element, offering peace of mind and long-term value.

With continued volatility in global supply chains, Hotronix heat presses present a stable, high-performance solution for businesses of all sizes looking to secure their equipment investments and avoid costly delays.

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