Art Inspires Winning Decorators

The 31st annual Impressions Awards presented a collection of artistic and technical decorating expertise on all types of wearables — and even framed pieces. January 11, 2010
By Marcia Derryberry, Editor in Chief

As our industry continues to show resilience during these challenging economic times, it is evident that art remains at the core of apparel decoration. The 31st annual Impressions Awards competition, which was judged at last September’s Fort Worth Imprinted Sportswear Show, presented a collection of artistic and technical decorating expertise on all types of wearables and even in framed pieces. The entries submitted for this year’s competition impressed us once again, and the high level of attention that went into each one proves that those who thrive in apparel decorating still put artistic quality and top-notch execution as a top priority.

This year’s winners’ list includes new work by some old friends such as ETF, Andy’s Tee Shirts, Anderson Studios, Target Graphics, Sportco and more. Additionally, we’re thrilled to present winning designs from new participants — Culture Studio, Atlas Print and Real Thread. We anticipate to be wowed once again when next year’s competition comes around and encourage you to enter. Entry details for the 32nd Impressions Awards contest will be available online at impressionsmag.com this spring.

In the following pages, we’re honored to present a profile on Quality Punch, a company in Torrance, Calif., that is back in the winner’s circle this year. The firm not only took home the Grand Champion: Best in Show award, but also earned five additional wins. Check out the following pages to see the designs that took home honors out of the more 200 entries submitted in 14 categories. Also, see this year’s winners first-hand in the Impressions booth at any of the five 2010 Imprinted Sportswear Shows.

Click here to download the pdf of the article featuring the winners of the 31st Impressions Awards.

'We Are Working People'
Tom Siniscalchi's mission is simple: He provides jobs for people that most employers consider unemployable. Possibili-Tees, the not-for-profit Staten Island, N.Y., screen printing shop he founded in 2007, and now directs, is staffed almost completely by people with autism and other developmental disorders.
March 11, 2010

Make the Most of Your Industry Trade Show Visit
Attending your first decorated apparel trade show is exhilarating. Even though the cost of travel is up, I don't think you can afford to miss the trade show closest to your home town. If you are new to the industry, prepare to be astounded by the number of new products and suppliers you will find. If you are an old hand in the industry, expect to find new products, ideas and processes to keep your business innovative and on the right track.
March 02, 2010

How to Find Good Employees
Perhaps one of the most daunting, time-consuming tasks for every business owner — and perhaps even more so for decorators — is finding good employees. It would be wonderful if there were an abundance of qualified job candidates who could perform their duties well and be a good fit in your shop’s culture, but that’s just not the case.
February 19, 2010

Tips for Improving Post-Press Efficiency
In the post-press phase of screen printing, as throughout the production cycle, efficiency is your primary goal -- and having set procedures in place is the key to achieving it. By laying out the steps that must be taken, you’ll speed up the process and help ensure that everything is done properly.
February 16, 2010

Art Inspires Winning Decorators
As our industry continues to show resilience during these challenging economic times, it is evident that art remains at the core of apparel decoration. The 31st annual Impressions Awards competition, which was judged at last September’s Fort Worth Imprinted Sportswear Show, presented a collection of artistic and technical decorating expertise on all types of wearables and even in framed pieces.
January 11, 2010