Tech Tips Digital Decorating: Inkjet Printer Checklist

Feb 1, 2009

Direct-to-garment inkjet printing has emerged from its infancy, with new equipment being introduced and existing printer brands upgrading their technology. With so many options available, it is important to be as informed as possible when shopping for this innovative decorating equipment.

To that end, consider the following shopping checklist when looking to purchase an inkjet printer:

• What type of ink system does it use? Bulk or cartridge? Four or eight inks? White or CMYK?

• What type of RIP comes with the unit? Proprietary or off the shelf? Get a list of features and options for those machines you are seriously considering buying.

• Does the RIP support raster files, vector files or both?

• What is the print speed for an average coverage 10" x 10" print?

• Are the replacement parts readily available?

• What technical/mechanical support is in place?

• Ask to have a sample printed from your own artwork file.

• Wash test the sample by cutting it in half. Wash one piece and compare the two.

• How long is the warranty? Does the manufacturer offer on-site service? How does it handle parts and labor?

• Ask for names of customers who currently use the unit you are looking at purchasing.
— From the Impressions archives

Hirsch Video Demonstrates Oversize Shirt Printing
A new video from Hirsch Intl. shows how to print oversize designs on the Mimaki inkjet garment printer the company distributes. To see the video, visit hirschinternational.com . Click on “Direct To Garment Printer” and search the right navigation bar for available videos.
September 28, 2009

Diversifying Your Customer Base  
Learn to evaluate and adjust your mix of clientele for optimum profitability and stability.
While the economic lows that many American markets have been experiencing for the past year are certainly painful, they’re also nothing new. Historically, the tide of business success continually ebbs and flows, with one market experiencing a rush of good fortune while another watches its revenue all but dry up. This cyclical nature of business is precisely why decorators must have a diverse customer base that allows them to weather slowdowns — or even meltdowns — in parts of the economy.
September 02, 2009

Decorators Open Up on DTG Workflow, Profits
Impressions interviewed apparel decorators from all corners of the industry to discuss the promise and the real-world results of investing in digital inkjet-to-garment printers. 
Since its introduction to the decorated apparel industry several years ago, direct-to-garment printing has been heralded as a game-changer — a disruptive technology that would dramatically change the way shops conduct business. It would allow decorators to tackle small orders, suppliers said. It would let shops offer personalization and print photographs with amazing detail, they promised. And it would dramatically reduce set-up time, they’ve claimed.
September 01, 2009

Corel Announces Winners of International Design Contest
Corel Corp., Ottawa, recently announced the winners of the CorelDRAW International Design Contest, which drew submissions from users in more than 60 countries. Junior Souza of Brazil won first place in the Fashion/Textile category. Impressions Senior Editor Terry Murphy was among the international panel of judges for the competition.
August 10, 2009 - Source: Nielsen Business Media

Tunes Lead Teen/Tween Trends
Music — bands and celebrity performers — is influencing the graphics, styling and colors that teens and pre-teens want to wear.
If you’re ever wondering how to tap in to the teen and tween (pre-teen) market, the evidence is all around you. The apparel worn on TV, in magazines and on the Internet by rock stars, actors, models and other celebrities is going to give you the greatest clues about what teens want in decorated apparel.
July 31, 2009