An Apparel Decorator’s Road Map to PRINTING United

By Chris Bernat

Are you an apparel professional wandering the hallowed halls of PRINTING United, wondering where to spend your time? Apparel is one of the most diverse community segments SGIA and PRINTING United serve, so many of us are looking for different things. This is a big show, and there are some technologies in the exposition hall that clearly are not for those of us in the clothing vertical. Need a starting point? Look no further: Make digital apparel solutions the focus of your day.

Mid-format Sublimation: The 44x 64" sublimation printer platform segment is ideal for the modern apparel decorator, the sweet spot between reasonably priced ink and buying a printer that is overkill for your business. The mid-format, as I like to call it, is great for virtually all types of sublimation for apparel — spot hit, all-over print, and, yes, even cut-and-sew.

Direct-to-Garment Printers: Screen printing isn’t going anywhere, but direct-to-garment (DTG) can make a lot of sense for your apparel business if you know what you are looking for in this space. DTG runs from $10,000 to $500,000 on the platform side of things. It’s a great area to get to know. See if it applies to your specific place in the market.

Software: From workflow and shop management software, to the RIP software that delivers perfect gradients — software technology is essential to maximizing your profit opportunity.

Also check out the Apparel Decorators Luncheon (Thursday, Oct. 24; Noon - 1:30 p.m.), which is always a great way to connect with your community. You will meet people who are helping mold the future of how PRINTING United can better support the apparel businessperson. We are always looking for more feedback, so if you have a passion for getting involved, this is a place to let people know. (Get your ticket for the luncheon at Registration.)

Don’t forget the educational sessions. Sometimes the best part of the class is the person to your left or to your right, so don’t be shy about sparking up a conversation. Some of the sessions I’m most looking forward to are: