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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Working With Faded Edges

When creating your designs for DTF transfers, one of the biggest issues you need to be mindful of is faded edges or transparent areas. The reason for this is that after the image is printed from an inkjet printer, an adhesive powder is applied to the ink, which helps the transfer stick to the fabric. As a result, with DTF transfers the ink droplets or tiny spots used to produce faded edges and transparent areas are too small, so the powder doesn’t have enough surface to cling to. They may, therefore, not adhere properly or could peel over time, leaving rough, splotchy areas. To prevent this, there are a few different options you can utilize when creating your art from scratch or adjusting a design you may already have to make it work.

The easiest way to avoid faded edges is to create a path around the edge of the main element with the pen tool (see below) and delete the unwanted faded areas. Image courtesy of Dane Clement

Hard Edges – The simplest way to avoid printing faded edges is to create a solid image with a clean, hard outer edge. If you already have a design that has a faded edge, you can easily fix this by using a selection tool like the pen tool. Create a path around the edge of the main element or area that you want to keep with the pen tool, then make a selection of the path, invert the selection and delete the unwanted faded areas. Now you can use the image in a layout with no worries.

Using Shapes – Another handy trick to avoid faded edges is to place your image inside a shape with a clean, hard edge. You can use basic shapes like circles or rectangles, but try thinking outside the box as well. Try pasting the image inside of text or create unique freeform shapes using the pen tool or any other tools like a hard-edge paint brush. Create a shape that complements your image or layout idea. For example, if you are creating an image for a swim team or a fishing design or something with a water-related theme, make a giant splash shape. It will create a much more intriguing, eye-catching design.

Large Halftone Dots – Among the advantages of DTF transfers is the ability to print small details. It is this advantage that provides the next option for dealing with faded edges to work. In fact, the use of large halftone dots has become very popular with DTF transfers, as it allows you to keep the integrity of the design instead of needing to eliminate areas and sacrifice the original look.

Once the path has been created, you can make a selection, invert and delete the unwanted faded areas. Image courtesy of Dane Clement

If you have a raster design with faded edges, start by making a selection of the original image. When using Photoshop, you can do this by holding down the Command/Control key and then clicking on the art layer. You should see “marching ants” running around the perimeter of the image denoting the fact it has been selected. Make a new layer and fill the selection with black. Duplicate the file so you have two separate files available. The new file will be used to create the halftone.

In the Menu Bar, go to Mode > Grayscale. Turn off all the layers except the layer with the black faded shape. Go back to the Menu Bar > Mode and select Bitmap, where you will be prompted to flatten your image. In the first window that pops up, make sure the resolution matches the resolution of your image. (I always set up my images at 300 ppi.) Click OK, and in the next window set up the halftone specifications.

For the frequency, the smaller the number the larger the dot. The larger the dot, the more “graphic” the image will look. I recommend a frequency of 20 lpi. For the angle, I use 61 degrees and a dot shape that is either round or ellipse. Round dots will give a more traditional, graphic look to your image, while elliptical dots will look more organic and provide more surface area to adhere to the garment. The look you want the final product to have can help dictate the dot shape you’re ultimately going to want to use.

Once the halftone screen is set, change the mode back to grayscale. Now you need to transfer this halftoned greyscale image to the original layered art file. To do this, click on the tab at the top of the window for the grayscale file and drag it out of the window to separate the files into two separate windows. Now you can go to the channels panel of the grayscale file and drag it to the art file. It will automatically create a new channel in the art file with the halftone in it.

That done, hold down the Command/Control Key, click on the halftone channel and go back to the layers and make a new layer. Fill the selection with a color that will work with your image. It can be black, white, gray, a neutral color or even something that will match the shirt color the image is going to be applied to. The reason for this is you need these dots to be solid to adhere to the shirt. By filling the selection with a color, it acts as a backing color to fill the dot so the halftones will be solid and have enough area for the adhesive powder to stick. Once the color is filled into the selection, make sure the art layer is above the halftone layer. Hold down the Option/Alt key and click between the two layers. The art layer will automatically be pasted inside the halftone layer. Viola! Your original image with the faded edges now has a halftoned edge.

Note that while DTF transfer can hold small details, there remains a limit as to how small you can go. Check your printer for its specifications and then use that measurement to determine what dots may be too small to hold. Erase those that are too small so you are only left with printable dots.

There are two tricks I use to help determine and eliminate dots that are too small. First I make a new layer, and use the Elliptical Marquee Tool to make a round selection at the smallest size recommendation from my printer. Fill the dot with a bright color that will stand out from the image. You can then move the dot around to see what dots need to be removed.

Another quick way to remove several small dots at once is to make a selection of the halftoned artwork. Contract the selection 2 pixels and then expand the selection 2 pixels. Invert the selection and delete. This will automatically delete any dots smaller than 2 pixels. Depending on the size of the dot you can hold, you may need to increase or decrease the amount of pixel contraction and expansion.

You may still need to double check using the small reference dot, but this will help remove a lot of unprintable dots at once so that you’re not wasting time manually checking and erasing.

Although today’s DTF transfers have a lighter feel than in year’s past, it’s still a good practice to include some open spaces in your design where the garment can show through. Image courtesy of Dane Clement

Having a Light Hand

As with any printing method, the more ink you use, the heavier the design will feel on the shirt. While today’s DTF transfers naturally have a lighter feel, it’s still a good idea to design your layouts with some open spaces where ink won’t print and let the garment show through. The less ink you use, the lighter and more comfortable the garment will be.

If you already know the color of the shirt you’ll be using, you can create some cool openings in your design by knocking out that same color from the image. For example, if your design is going on a black shirt, you can use the Color Range Selection tool to pick the black in the design and knock out that part of the design so the black of the shirt shows through. This will reduce the amount of ink being printed giving the transfer a lighter feel. After that, you can use the same technique described previously to apply a halftone screen to the entire layout for a nice finishing touch.

To Print or Not to Print

Now that you’ve got some pointers for creating artwork to make better transfers, how are you going to do the actual printing? As with all production methods there are the options of either doing it yourself or contracting it out. Of course, doing it yourself means the expense of equipment. If you go to a trade show, you’ll see all kinds of DTF equipment available out there, but you really need to do your homework to make sure you understand the ins and outs of what’s involved. The equipment, the ink, the adhesive powder—there’s a lot to consider.

To create some openings in this design, the black portions of the design were knocked out to let the black material of the garment itself show through. Image courtesy of Dane Clement

On the flip side, there are any number of printers out there that you can send your designs to and have your transfers produced. The only equipment you need is a heat press. For those just getting into the business, this might be the best. It gives you a chance to get started with lower out-of-pocket expenses making it easier for you to get off the ground quicker and easier.

If you’ve been in the industry long enough, you know how DTG printing flooded the market in its early years. Everyone had one. Now only those companies that really invested in and took the time to understand the technology remain. Just as DTG boomed, the same might be said for DTF. In time things will likely level out, leaving only those who can afford to maintain and invest in the continued betterment of the process to provide quality transfers. It’s something to consider when trying to decide between doing it yourself or finding a quality supplier who can do it for you.

Just as you need to do your homework when looking into possibly buying equipment, you need to investigate and research the various DTF transfer providers out there. Not all are providers are created equal! You want to go to a trusted business that really knows and understands the product. I suggest sending a design to a few different companies to compare.

Cheapest isn’t always the best. Color quality might be poor. Adhesive may seep out from under the color print leaving an unsightly outline around the printed area. Registration from the colors to the white ink might be out. Some peel hot, while others peel cold, taking longer to get through your job. The transfer might not adhere properly and start to peel. Even ink quality isn’t the same. There are trusted companies that use inks that are certified clean and safe. Others don’t. If you want to grow your business, you need to provide a superior product, and superior products come from trusted, knowledgeable companies. Shop around and talk to others to make sure you’re getting the best product possible.

The DTF race is on, and you don’t want to be left behind. Making sure you create designs properly that work well and then having them produced using quality printers, supplies and products is the way to stay ahead of the crowd!

Dane Clement is president of Great Dane Graphics, as well as vice president of creative for GroupeSTAHL. He has been speaking and writing for the decorated-apparel industry since 1987. He has also authored several artwork-training books for various garment-decoration methods. For more information or to comment on this article, email Dane at dane@greatdanegraphics.com.

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Goof Proof® transfers are a fast, cost-effective alternative to DTF, delivering the soft feel of real screen printing. Perfect for 1-2 color designs, they arrive pre-cut and ready to apply—no cutting apart required. Orders placed by 3 PM ET ship the next business day, helping decorators meet tight deadlines without the setup, equipment, or overhead of traditional screen printing.

Goof Proof transfers can be applied to cotton and poly/cotton blends, with two temperature settings to prevent scorching on heat-sensitive fabrics. They are available in two standard sizes— 9-inch by 12.75-inch and 11-inch by 14-inch—with a minimum order of 25 pieces. Bulk pricing discounts make them a cost-effective choice for decorators fulfilling orders for teams, schools, businesses, and events.

“By offering Goof Proof transfers on stahls.com, we’re giving more decorators access to one of the industry’s most trusted screen printed transfers,” said Josh Ellsworth, Chief Revenue Officer at GroupeSTAHL. “It’s a proven, fast and reliable solution to help them meet customer demands with confidence.”

For more details, including free sample requests, color options, and pricing, visit stahls.com/goof-proof.

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This agreement integrates Hotronix IQ heat press technology into the innovative Stampinator concept, allowing automatic screen print press users unprecedented flexibility for achieving specialty finishes beyond the limits of traditional screen printing. In addition, it allows screen printers to improve screen print results with underbase stamping to smooth fibers for better opacity and quick cure capabilities, producing very bright soft transfer results on all types of fabrics.

The Hotronix Stampinator fits seamlessly and easily on automatic screen printing presses, transforming the way screen printers operate. Hotronix SVP & Chief Manufacturing Officer Ben Robinson explains that with the Stampinator, “high-speed screen printing is now at your fingertips, ready to plug, press and play.” By incorporating this in-line heat press technology, decorators can achieve full automation, increasing output from 20 shirts per hour to a staggering 480 shirts per hour—all within their existing automatic screen print press setup.

Backed by the industry-leading Hotronix heat press technology, the Stampinator delivers:

• Flawless applications of all types of heat transfers, including DTF and screen printed transfers
• The ability to use premium add-ons for apparel including foil, rhinestones and more
• Screen printing of numbers along with HTV and specialty CAD-CUT finishes
• Stamping of underbases to smooth fibers and quick cure of all prints

The advanced Hotronix heat press technology not only expands creative possibilities but also enhances production efficiency without sacrificing print quality.

“This partnership combines Hotronix’s heat press expertise with Stampinator’s innovative screen print press conversion concept,” said Carleen Gray, CEO of STAHLS’. “We’re proud to help deliver technology that allows screen printers to scale and offer premium results with every job.”

Improving the Custom Screen Print Process

STAHLS’ Chief Revenue Officer Josh Ellsworth agreed stating, “With the Stampinator, screen printers not only improve their screen print process, but also optimize work within their current footprint. The Stampinator innovation allows heat transfer to complement screen printing and vice versa. With the demand for new fabrics, full color graphics and shorter run sizes it is an addition certain to bring an immediate benefit to every shop.”

“The Stampinator brand is built by screen printers, for screen printers,” said Jeff Fiorucci, founder and president of Stampinator. “Our call to action is make your prints better. We are excited to take the Stampinator to the next level with the precision of Hotronix technology, including international distribution and future adaptations.”

Updated 4/25/25

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The SureColor G6070 was on display at Impressions Expo in Long Beach, California, held last week Jan. 23-25. Image courtesy of Epson

“Many print service providers are already using DTFilm in their shop, yet are spending much of their resources maintaining their equipment, rather than growing their business,” said Andreas Goehring, director, Professional Imaging, Epson America, Inc. “No matter what market we enter, Epson strives to bring reliability, accessibility and print quality to customers, and that is no different with the SureColor G6070. This model is designed to open new doors for apparel decorators looking to explore new and creative ways to produce stunning apparel.”

The compact SureColor G6070 features a front-loading media design that supports a generous 35.4-inch print width to fit more transfers per roll and enables the production of oversized graphics. Leveraging a PrecisionCore® Micro TFP® printhead with Nozzle Verification Technology, as well as a large-capacity sealed-ink-pack system featuring new UltraChrome® DF inks, it consistently delivers professional-grade prints with vibrant colors and crisp, detailed clarity. Purpose-built with low user maintenance requirements, the SureColor G6070 includes a proven automated maintenance system and fabric printhead wiper cleaning system to help ensure sellable, high-quality prints continuously, without constant monitoring of the printer. The SureColor G6070 requires just a few minutes of upkeep each week to keep the printer running smoothly, minimizing downtime and increasing production capabilities.

Additional Epson SureColor G6070 features include:

– On-site service and support – fast troubleshooting helps reduce downtime and boost productivity; covered under the printer’s limited warranty
– Real-time monitoring – remote job tracking and notifications through Epson Cloud Solution PORT®1
– Safety-certified inks – UltraChrome DF inks are OEKO-TEX® ECO PASSPORT certified,2 CPSIA-compliant and non-toxic
– Efficient workflow – reach full production speed faster with advanced production print software Fiery Digital Factory DTF Epson Edition
– Space-saving design – compact, front-loading design fits against walls to save floor space

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Image courtesy of 613

613 Originals DTF Hybrid Heat Transfers 

613 Originals released what it calls its new DTF Hybrid Heat Transfers, a proprietary heat-transfer solution expressly configured for the high-demand apparel and promotional markets. Developed for compatibility with a wide range of materials, including cotton, polyester and various blends, DTF Hybrid Heat Transfers offer professional-grade results that remain vivid and long-lasting, even on complex fabric textures and patterns. The clear transfer film simplifies placement and maximizes accuracy, allowing creators and businesses to achieve precise alignments to limit waste. According to the company, the versatility of the DTF Hybrid Heat Transfers makes them perfect for diverse applications—from fashion to sportswear, promotional products, and beyond. Available in its single image program with multiple sheet sizes, including the largest sheet size available in the market. With a minimum order quantity of 10 pieces, the new product is priced competitively for large and small-scale projects. Customers who would normally opt for DTF will find DTF Digital Hybrid a better option when they need 50 pieces or more.

Image courtesy of Archroma

Archroma Ultra Compact Color Atlas for Apparel

Archroma introduced an innovative portable version of its market-leading Color Atlas by Archroma® color catalogue to help streamline textile and apparel industry workflows with truly convenient color comparison. The Color Atlas by Archroma, Mini Flex and Mini Palette editions are available as convenient libraries of textile color swatches that set a new standard for efficient color selection and comparison while on the go, in the office, factory or in a work-from-home setting. Color comparison is a fundamental part of the work of designers and their textile mill and brand partners. However, achieving the perfect color match or color harmony without convenient access to color library reference books has long been a challenge. Physical color libraries can be bulky and heavy with even compact editions of physical libraries are too big to fit into a backpack or shoulder bag. The new Color Atlas by Archroma® formats give designers a visual companion tool for digital color libraries may not be accurate due to the limitations of the user’s smartphone or tablet display. The Color Atlas by Archroma Mini Flex and Mini Palette editions overcome these challenges. Both formats are user friendly and travel-ready, with no mask required to isolate colors for selection and comparison.

Arcus Printers Direct-to-Film Soft Touch Powder

Arcus Printers released its new Arcus Soft Touch Powder, a high-performance adhesive powder to help create high-quality,

Image courtesy of Arcus

direct-to-film (DTF) prints on a variety of materials. DTF powder is a key component in textile personalization, offering an alternative to traditional screen printing and heat transfer methods.
• Super-Soft Hand Feel: Unlike traditional DTF adhesive powders that can leave a “plastic” feel once the transfer is cured, the new powder offers a soft and natural texture, mimicking the look and feel of screen printing
• Superior Stretchability: Ideal for most materials – including challenging substrates like spandex or nylon
• Low Dust: The carefully selected particle size minimizes dust, providing a cleaner and safer work environment for decorators
• Proprietary Blend: Arcus Printers’ unique formula is designed for superior performance and reliability.
• Safe, Domestic Manufacturing: Arcus Soft Touch powder, manufactured in the U.S., uses OEKO-TEX certified materials.

Image courtesy of Brother

Brother GTX R2R High-Volume DTF Printers

Brother Industrial Products Division (IPD) now offers the GTX R2R printer for creating direct-to-film (DTF) transfers.
It’s a dedicated roll-to-roll DTF solution designed for high-volume printing that allows it to provide maximum productivity with little operator involvement. Offering the ability to do high resolution and fine details, the two industrial printheads have eight ink channels: CMYK in one and four white inks in the other. The industrial maintenance station with wet capping system keeps white ink flowing. The adhesive powder circulation system has a built-in ionizer, and the infrared curing station has a take-up roll device. The maximum roll size is 16 inches (40.6 cm). Using Brother Innobella Textile inks, the GTX R2R offers a wide color gamut and an opaque white. It comes bundled with Digital Factory Apparel Direct to Film Edition software, which includes file prep, color management and automated production tools. The High Speed print mode allows for up to 65 percent faster printing speed over Standard print mode. The GTX R2R is the perfect companion to any DTG shop as it’s ideal for items that are difficult to pretreat and enables business to create large items that will not fit on a platen, according to the company. Multiple designs can be printed on a single sheet for smaller applications such as a pocket design or sleeve, and it’s ideal for polyester, synthetics and other temperature-sensitive fabrics that are not compatible for DTG. Like the DTG units, it comes in two sizes built to fit individual business’s needs. The GTXpro R2R is ideal for small to medium shops, and the GTXPro B R2R is designed for higher volume output using bulk inks.

CICLO Biodegradable Polyester/Nylon Fibers

The fact that plastics are both cheap and eminently corrosion resistant makes them incredibly useful. There is, however, very

Image courtesy of CICLO

much a downside to this usefulness in the way plastics seemingly last forever upon entering the waste stream. The result has been a pollution problem on land and at sea of truly epic proportion. Fortunately, there now appears to be at least the beginning of a solution, something called CICLO, what its creators describes as a technology that is “added to polyester and nylon during the melt extrusion process, creating countless biodegradable spots that are permanently embedded throughout the matrix of the plastic.” The result? In layman’s terms, plastic fibers that biodegrade at roughly the same rate as wool. Imagine the possibilities! Not surprisingly, the decorated-apparel sector, with its increasing interest in sustainability, is already putting the new technology to the test, with such industry leaders as Delta Apparel and Hanes/Champion incorporating it into their product lines. Good for them and good for CICLO! For more information, visit ciclotextiles.com.

Image courtesy of Easiway

Easisolv Screen-Printing Squeegee and Floodbar Wash

Easiway Systems unveiled its latest breakthrough–Easisolv 401N Squeegee and Floodbar Wash. According to the company, the “revolutionary” product sets a new standard in cleaning solutions, featuring a first-of-its-kind formula that does not swell squeegee rubber, ensuring extended equipment life and consistent printing quality. Engineered specifically for automated cleaning equipment, 401N streamlines operations while effectively removing ink from suspension, simplifying cleaning and recirculation processes. Its versatile formula dissolves plastisolv, solvent, and UV inks, adhering to strict quality standards and restricted substances lists, including those of industry giants like Nike, Gildan, and Adidas.

Image courtesy of Epson

Epson SureColor F-Series DTG Printer

Epson debuted the new SureColor F-Series direct-to-garment (DTG) printer. Designed to open new doors for garment decorators, entrepreneurs, artisan businesses, and print service providers, the versatile entry-level SureColor F1070 is purpose-built for a range of DTG and direct-to-film (DTFilm) printing applications. The hybrid printer combines outstanding image quality, easy operation and flexible performance in one space-saving package to allow designers to spend more time creating, according to Epson. Engineered for both DTG and DTFilm printing, the unit features an enclosed design with transparent viewing panels to enhance the printing process, and DTFilm printing capability allows users to go beyond traditional garment printing and transfer personalized designs to a wider variety of materials. It also features a PrecisionCore MicroTFP printhead with Nozzle Verification Technology and next-generation UltraChrome DG2 ink with CMYK+Wh. White ink prints on dark garments for enhanced clarity and photographic print quality, and a cartridge-free ink pack system reduces ink replacement frequency to support productivity.

Image courtesy of Equipment Zone

Equipment Zone New EZ-SHAKE Automatic Powder Shaker

Equipment Zone launched the EZ-SHAKE Automatic Powder Shaker, a new tool to aid in the workflow of creating DTF transfers. The EZ-SHAKE Automatic Powder Shaker is a completely enclosed system and will automate your powder application process, evenly coating your DTF sheets with a simple lever push. At the touch of a button, any excessive powder is neatly and automatically shaken off. The powder sticks solely to the printed sections, with the excess being effortlessly collected for reuse.
DTF EZ-SHAKE main features include:
● Sealed system for mess-free operation
● Accepts film sheet sizes up to 16-inches by 20-inches
● Applies an even distribution of powder
● Powered exhaust with filter
● Interchangeable powder cartridges for quick and clean refills
● Dimensions: 22.7-inches (long) by 24.4-inches (wide) by 33.2-inches (high)
● 120 volt 5 amps
● Weight: 80 Pounds

Gildan/Comfort Colors Pigment Pure Line

Image courtesy of Gildan

There are any number of variables at play when introducing a new apparel line, and with its Pigment Pure initiative, introduced at the 2024 Impressions Expo in Long Beach, California, Gildan’s Comfort Colors brand has truly found a winning combination. Already known for, well, their “comfort” and good looks, the T-shirts and fleeces comprising today’s Comfort Colors line incorporate super soft 100-percent ring-spun U.S. cotton that looks as good as it feels. Beyond that the company’s Pigment Pure process also breaks new ground both aesthetically and environmentally by dyeing the fabrics it employs on a “surface level” thereby 1) creating a palette of “subtle, vintage-looking colors” and “nature-inspired shades” of a type that has long been part of the brand’s DNA and 2) reducing dyeing times by around 40 percent, saving both water and energy. For more information, visit comfortcolors.com/us.

Lawson Screen & Digital Ultimate DTF Printing Solution Bundle

Lawson Screen & Digital’s new cutting-edge Prestige XL2 Pro Direct-to-Film (DTF) Printer Bundle includes the Prestige XL2

Image courtesy of Lawson

Pro DTF Printer and the Miro 24-inch DTF Powder Shaker and Dryer. This innovative combination delivers a game-changing solution for print shops looking to elevate their DTF printing capabilities with unmatched color accuracy, efficiency, and ease of use, according to the company. At the heart of this bundle is the Prestige XL2 Pro DTF Printer, a state-of-the-art 24-inch direct-to-film printer engineered for professionals who demand superior performance. Featuring an advanced 8-color printing system (CMYK + Red, Green, Orange, and Blue), the Prestige XL2 Pro offers an expanded color gamut, producing vibrant, lifelike prints that surpass the capabilities of standard DTF printers. Its generous 24-inch width accommodates large, intricate designs, making it ideal for producing custom apparel, textiles, and other personalized items with precision and clarity.
Paired with the Prestige XL2 Pro, the Miro 24-inch DTF Powder Shaker and Dryer is engineered for maximum efficiency and convenience. This compact yet robust machine ensures a clean, organized workspace with its built-in air purifier, creating a safer working environment. Its precise scale marks allow for fast and accurate film alignment, while the curved heating platen provides clear results. Together, the Prestige XL2 Pro DTF Printer and Miro 24-inch DTF Powder Shaker and Dryer can offer an ideal solution for print shops looking to boost creativity, efficiency, and print quality.

Madeira USA E-Zee Green Backing

Image courtesy of Maderia

Madeira USA’s E-Zee Green Backing, a medium-weight machine-embroidery backing made from 100 percent recycled polyester. Part of company-wide commitment to sustainability that includes, among other products, the company’s Sensa Green eco-friendly machine embroidery thread (made of 100 Lyocell, a fiber of botanic origin produced via a process using a minimum of water), products like E-Zee Green Backing are just what the industry needs to truly clean up its act. According to Madeira USA, “The fashion industry is becoming more environmentally aware and every small change toward sustainability counts.” We couldn’t have said it better ourselves!

Melco SUMMIT Embroidery System

Image courtesy of Melco

With its appropriately named SUMMIT embroidery system, embroidery industry leader Melco is aiming to take its game to a whole new level through a combination of performance and ease-of-use. Capable of sewing up to 1,500 stitches per minutes and equipped with 16 needles, the SUMMIT offers a 10.1-inch HD resolution touch screen, built-in barcode scanner, automatic thread tensioning with Acti-Feed, and an ultra-responsive operating system. The SUMMIT’s easy-to-use touch-screen interface gives you all the information you need at a glance, including automatic maintenance reminders, access to a variety of step-by-step, on-screen guides to ensure your machine is running at its peak, and 30 days of on-screen tracking.
The system’s built-in barcode scanner quickly loads designs and design settings via the Melco’s proprietary OFM file system. The system’s cutting-edge software also allows you to quickly load hoop settings.

Ninja Transfers “Easy Peel” DTF Apparel-Decorating Tech

Image courtesy of Ninja Transfers

Custom direct-to transfer (DTF) manufacturer Ninja Transfers, widely known for its innovative approach to apparel decorating, has announced the launch of what it calls its new Easy Peel Technology. According to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania-based Ninja Transfers, its latest product offering marks the next evolution of DTF transfers, replacing traditional cold peel methods and enhancing hot peel applications to deliver unparalleled efficiency and quality. According to Ninja Transfers, Easy Peel “revolutionizes” the transfer process by allowing users to peel immediately while hot or wait until the design is cool with the ability to pull off the transfer backing slowly at first and then fast to ensure the image is properly adhered to the product.

Roland DGA VersaSTUDIO Desktop BY-20 Direct-to-Film (DTF) Printer

Image courtesy of Roland DGA

The Roland DGA BY-20 desktop DTF system is centered around the BY-20, a water-based printer that uses the DTF transfer method to improve the design and efficiency of apparel goods production. The BY-20 lets you produce customized apparel and accessories quickly with no weeding required. With the BY-20, you can transfer even complex designs onto both light and dark fabrics—not only cotton but also polyester, cotton polyester, denim, nylon and rayon.

STAHLS’ Heat Applied Flexbroidery

Image courtesy of STAHLS’

Heat-press specialist STAHLS’ launched Flexbroidery, a heat-applied product that creates a full-color direct embroidered finish in seconds, no sewing required. Flexbroidery eliminates the complexity of traditional embroidery, featuring fast and easy heat application that streamlines production and boosts output, in the process offering an efficient, versatile, cost-effective alternative to authentic embroidery. Businesses can now deliver detailed, high-end embroidered looks without the stress and limitations of conventional stitching, thereby eliminating the challenges associated with delicate fabrics, difficult placements and digitizing. With Flexbroidery, any heat press operator can achieve a full color embroidered finish without the time, training and skill required for direct embroidery, making it easier for more decorators to meet high-volume demands and quick turnarounds profitably. In addition to heat-applied Flexbroidery transfers for apparel, bags, hats, outerwear and accessories, Flexbroidery with a pressure sensitive adhesive is also available for tumblers, mugs, water bottles and other hard goods.

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Designed for unmatched precision and efficiency, the TXF300-1600 sets a new standard for direct-to-film (DTF) and textile printing, catering to a growing market of high-volume garment decorators, custom apparel creators, and print professionals.

This cutting-edge DTF printer combines Mimaki’s renowned innovation with advanced features, including a wider 63-inch media width, and ink circulation technology that prevents white ink sedimentation. Backed by 50 years of Mimaki Engineering expertise, the TXF300-1600 delivers consistent, vibrant prints on a wide range of materials while supporting skin-friendly textiles with OEKO-TEX® ECO PASSPORT-certified inks.

“The Mimaki TXF300-1600 represents a leap forward in DTF printing technology,” says Mark Gardner, Marketing Manager at Hirsch Solutions LLC. “It delivers faster production capabilities without compromising on quality. We’re thrilled to add this innovative machine to our product lineup, providing customers with the tools they need to expand their businesses and achieve remarkable results.”

Key features of the DTF Mimaki TXF300-1600 include:

Enhanced Productivity: A broader media width of 63 inches for efficient handling of large-scale projects.

Improved Workflow: Advanced ink circulation technology minimizes white ink sedimentation, ensuring smooth and uninterrupted operation.

Trusted Performance: Built on Mimaki’s 50 years of innovation, the TXF300-1600 delivers consistent, high-quality results.

Eco-Friendly Printing: Mimaki PHT50 inks are certified OEKO-TEX® ECO PASSPORT, allowing for the creation of skin-friendly textiles.

Optimized Drying: A three-way intelligent heater speeds up ink drying, improving output consistency and overall efficiency.

Hirsch Solutions also provides a complete range of Mimaki DTF inks and Hirsch Premium consumables, including Hot Peel Film and Powder, engineered to work seamlessly with the TXF300-1600. This comprehensive offering ensures customers have everything they need for a reliable and efficient DTF printing solution.

“The addition of the Mimaki TXF300-1600 aligns with our mission to empower businesses with the best tools in the industry,” Gardner says. “With this printer, we’re giving our customers the ability to take their creativity and production capabilities to the next level.”

The Mimaki TXF300-1600 and supporting consumables are now available through Hirsch Solutions. Customers can learn more by visiting www.hsi.us/mimaki or contacting the company directly.

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The EZ-JET PRO 32 Powder/Shaker/Dryer has been engineered with a robust frame and support system designed from the ground up to withstand the demands of increased production speeds and industrial production. This commercial-grade machine is optimized for indoor environments, featuring an onboard dual-filter system that eliminates the need for outdoor venting, allowing for flexible installation without additional exhaust systems.

Key Features of the EZ-JET PRO 32 Powder/Shaker/Dryer:

Photo courtesy of Equipment Zone

BUILT-IN Filtration System: Eliminates the need for external exhaust or venting.
32-INCH Production Width: Ideal for handling a wide range of film sizes.
AUTOMATIC Vacuum Belt: Advanced film feeding system.
LOW POWDER Light Indicator: Enhances workflow efficiency and alerts operators when powder levels need refilling.
FREE TRAINING & Unlimited Support: Backed by Equipment Zone’s expert training and renowned unlimited support for complete peace of mind.
ONE-YEAR Warranty: Comprehensive coverage for added security and value.

Designed with production in mind, this dryer provides high-performance drying in a reasonable footprint (Dimensions: 74 in. L x 50 in. W x 43 in. H). Weighing in at 750 lbs., the EZ-JET PRO 32 DTF dryer is built to handle rigorous production schedules, ensuring long-lasting reliability for apparel decoration businesses ready to elevate their DTF capabilities.

“The EZ-JET PRO 32 DTF dryer will meet the growing demands of professional performance and commercial-grade DTF printing,” says Harry Oster, president at Equipment Zone. “Our customers can depend on this equipment for exceptional performance, industrial production and the added support that Equipment Zone is known for.”

The EZ-JET PRO 32 DTF dryer pairs seamlessly with the EZ-JET PRO 24 and EZ-JET PRO 24 MAX DTF printers. This versatile Powder/Shaker/Dryer unit is also compatible with other printers on the market; it was recently showcased at the PRINTING United Expo, where it operated flawlessly in the EPSON booth alongside EPSON’s new roll-to-roll DTF printer.

The EZ-JET PRO 32 DTF Powder/Shaker/Dryer is now available through Equipment Zone. For more information or to schedule a demo, click here.

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