Textile Image Magazine

TEXTILE TRENDS AND TECHNOLOGIES TO BE SHOWCASED IN SYDNEY

PRINLOCKER POWERING TO NEW HEIGHTS IN PERSONALISED PRINTING

FEATURE ARTICLE

HOW TO BE A MORE SUSTAINABLE PRINT SHOP AND IMPROVE YOUR BOTTOM LINE!

PUBLISHER'S LETTER

JANET MAITLAND PUBLISHER

Welcome to the first issue of Textile Image Magazine for 2023. The past few years has seen an increased focus on sustainability for print shop owners, a trend that is only going to continue to gain momentum, driven by consumers and governments alike. At the macro level we hear more and more about circular fashion, the shift towards a closedloop supply chain where clothing and textiles are designed for reuse, repair, refurbishment, and recycling. We are more aware of ethical sourcing, ensuring that the garments we use are sourced in an ethical and sustainable manner, free from exploitation and environmental degradation. We are in tune with water conservation, using renewable energy such solar and reducing our carbon footprint. These macros issues

are important but can be expensive and overwhelming for a busy, small business owner. So what are some of the simple things we can change in our businesses, that can not only improve our sustainability, but also make our business more profitable?.

This year we are pleased to welcome a new contributor to Textile Image Magazine on the topic of sustainability, Pamela Mannell, Founder of T-1Print. Pamela shares with us the insights she has gained from her journey over the past fifteen years, in the article on page 18, “How to be a more sustainable print shop AND improve your bottom line”

For those of you who are investing this year, make sure you visit the Visual Impact tradeshow, which is showcasing it’s largest offering for textile printers ever. It is being held at the Sydney Showground, May 3 – 5, 2023, we look forward to seeing you there.

.Best Regards, Janet Maitland

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Next issue: June 2023

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DISCLAIMER

The opinions expressed in this magazine are not necessarily the views of the publisher. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of information contained in this magazine no responsibility is accepted by the publisher for any omissions, inaccuracies, typographical errors or printerʼs errors. No responsibility will be accepted for any changes to information after publication.

ROLAND DGA LAUNCHES DTF

VERSASTUDIO BN-20D

IN THE USA

Roland DGA has launched its new VersaSTUDIO BN-20D Direct-to-Film (DTF) System. Combining outstanding print quality with a simple, ultra-reliable operation, this advanced, affordable desktop solution makes customising apparel and accessories with eyecatching graphics – even the most detailed images and text – easier than ever. The BN-20D Direct-to-Film System complements Roland DGA’s existing family of compact, powerful VersaSTUDIO machines designed to help smaller home- or office-based print providers build their businesses.

Built around the solid performance and unmatched dependability of a powerful, compact BN-20D Direct-to-Film Printer, the system is a complete apparel decoration solution that consists of specially formulated S-PG inks in CMYK and White, S-F164 direct transfer film, and S-POWDER direct transfer powder (each sold separately). Equipped with this system, users can create stunning custom T-shirts, tote bags, aprons, and more in just four simple steps, with no weeding or masking required.

Direct-to-film (DTF) transfer has been attracting worldwide attention in the apparel decoration industry due to how easily this process enhances clothing and accessories with head-turning graphics. After printing illustrations, photos, and other graphics on a special film, the powder is applied to the film, which is then thermally melted. This eliminates the need for labour-intensive

removal of waste from unnecessary areas and retouching, making the work process more efficient and allowing for the production of more complex and appealing designs.

“A significant advantage of the BN20D Direct-to-Film System is its ability to print extremely detailed images and fine lines that would be difficult, or even impossible, to weed using vinyl,” points out Roland DGA’s Product Manager of Digital Print, Daniel Valade.

“Also, knocking out the backgrounds in the design and using the garment colour as the background allows for a transfer with a soft, natural hand.”

While the direct-to-film process does not require integrated print and cut functionality for the application, the BN20D can also be used as a stand-alone vinyl cutter, allowing users to expand their application offerings. Making the switch from direct-to-film printing to CAD Cut vinyl cutting is quick and easy, requiring just a few clicks of the mouse in the BN20D’s included VersaWorks RIP software.

Like all BN-20 Series devices, the BN20D Direct-to-Film Printer is designed to deliver vibrant, consistent output, backed by Roland DG’s industry-best manufacturer’s warranty. Variable dot printing produces droplets of seven different sizes for detailed graphics, realistic photographic reproduction, smooth gradations, and superb contrast. At the same time, Roland Intelligent Pass Control enhances image quality

and colour by precisely controlling dot placement between passes. The BN20D can transfer onto light and dark fabrics, including not only cotton but also polyester, cotton polyester, denim, nylon, rayon and more, to produce a wide variety of garments. An automated cutting function makes it possible for the BN-20D to produce logos and other graphic designs using glitter and metallic vinyl, which is difficult with standard inkjet printing. In addition, the ink complies with OEKO-TEX, an international standard that guarantees the safety of apparel decoration, making it safe for use on clothing for children and pets. Other noteworthy BN-20D features include an updated ink delivery and recirculation system engineered to ensure reliable performance, day in and day out. Dedicated channels for CMYK and an improved white ink delivery channel allow the BN-20D to produce rich, vivid colour while achieving optimal white ink opacity for printing on light-and dark-coloured garments and accessories.

The BN-20D Direct-to-Film Printer comes bundled with VersaWorks 6 software. VersaWorks 6 boasts a HARLEQUIN RIP dual-core engine, faster processing speeds, the ability to handle and correctly process complex PDF, EPS, and PS files with drop shadows and transparencies, comprehensive Roland Colour System and PANTONE colour libraries, plus a host of additional useful features.

“Apparel applications continue to be a driving force behind the small business market segment, and the direct-to-film process has grown in popularity,” said Valade. “The new BN-20D Direct-toFilm System offers what the competition simply can’t provide – optimum print quality, ease of use, and legendary reliability, backed by a Roland DG manufacturer’s warranty,” he added. “This system provides small and home office businesses with the tools they need to produce top-quality direct-to-film apparel with complete confidence.”

IMPRESSION TECHNOLOGY LAUNCHES DTF QO-T MERCH FACTORY

Impression Technology has launched its new Merch Factory DTF system through its DTG Digital brand. The Merch Factory is a complete DTF production kit consisting of the QO-T Printer, Powder Applicator and Cure Oven. The QO-T is the first desktop format high-volume commercial DTF printer capable of printing full 16” x 20” (40 x 50cm) DTF transfer sheets in under three minutes.

It has dual print heads for high-speed throughput, and the printing hardware has the same industrial-grade features as the company’s successful Q Hybrid Series

DTG/DTF Hybrid models. The QO-T Printer has a built-in vacuum platen to secure the DTF film sheets in place during the print cycle.

This feature improves registration accuracy and ink droplet placement resulting in best in class DTF print quality. WIMS white ink management automatically circulates, filters and pressurises white ink in the printer reducing white ink maintenance. The auto white ink flush system refreshes all critical white ink components with touch button control for predictable and repeatable white ink prints.

DTF consumables available with The Merch Factory include Kodak transfer film, EFTF inks and powder adhesive. The new EFTF transfer inks are OEKO-TEX approved and designed to match the latest precision core print heads with regard to viscosity and temperature requirements guaranteeing smoother brighter print results. They are pre-degassed and available in user replaceable one litre bags for continuous, longer run production. Importantly, the film and ink are coated and chemically matched for high release and have antistatic properties to ensure consistent reliable results. The initial heat press transfer time is just 10 seconds with the final press decreased to 10-15 seconds at 145˚C to 160˚C (290˚F to 310˚F).

“The Merch Factory simplifies DTF transfer printing further in a dedicated sheet format desktop style printer. It’s designed to fit into smaller spaces with a minimal approach to hardware requirements. It builds upon the success of the Q Hybrid Series DTG/DTF systems currently available,” says Steve Richardson Impression Technology CEO.

AVERY DENNISON SIGNS AGREEMENT TO ACQUIRE THERMOPATCH

Avery Dennison has announced it has signed an agreement to acquire Thermopatch, a company specialising in labelling, embellishments, and transfers for the sports, industrial laundry, workwear and hospitality industries. After the deal closes, which is expected to happen in the first quarter of 2023, Thermopatch will become part of the company's Retail Branding and Information Solutions (RBIS) Apparel Solutions division. The acquisition will allow the combined business to build on collective industry knowledge, leveraging the company's know-how, quality, and service to drive growth in external embellishments. Thermopatch, headquartered in Syracuse, New York, had revenues of approximately $40 million in 2022, with around 200 employees, operations in North America and Europe, and an office in Moorabbin, Victoria.

"We are thrilled to welcome Thermopatch into the Avery Dennison family. It's an excellent strategic fit for expanding our position in embellishments, labels and transfers," said Michael Barton, senior vice president and general manager of RBIS Apparel Solutions. "We continue to accelerate our progress within our external embellishments business, going from strength to strength and entering new markets. In doing so, we are building on last year's launch of Embelex, Avery Dennison's full-service, end-toend platform for on-product branding, graphics and trims, and accelerating our strategy to drive growth and innovation in this market. Combining Thermopatch and our strong product portfolio and long-standing customer relationships will enable us to continue to grow and deliver value for all our stakeholders."

"This next chapter is a great opportunity for us," said Tom DePuit, CEO of Thermopatch. "I am proud of what we as a business have accomplished over the last 85 years, and I am confident that Thermopatch will continue to thrive. With the combined capabilities of both businesses, we can further advance innovation and provide increased value for our customers and the industries we serve while continuing to deliver the same quality of service," concluded Barton

NEXT LEVEL APPAREL ACQUIRES STEDMAN

Blue Point Capital Partners and its portfolio company Next Level Apparel (NLA) have announced the acquisition of Germany-based Stedman GmbH, a designer, manufacturer and supplier of premium casual and sportswear blank apparel for the printwear industry.

Since 1953, Stedman® has stood for top quality and ethically produced clothing across men’s, women’s and youth apparel — all of which are complementary with NLA’s product collections and reputation for superior quality, fit and style. With a distribution center in Ghent, Belgium — and a market presence in over 40 countries — Stedman’s international foundation will serve as a critical accelerant to NLA’s

strategic geographic expansion in Europe.

“The team at Stedman is excited to join ranks with Next Level Apparel, a strong partner and the perfect match, thanks to numerous synergistic qualities and values across both companies,” said Stedman General Manager Marcel Schweigert.

GILDAN PUBLISHES FIRST STAND-ALONE CLIMATE CHANGE DISCLOSURE REPORT

“This partnership opens up new growth opportunities for everyone involved, and I am personally thrilled to be part of it, not only as a stakeholder but also as a shareholder.”

Founded in 2003, NLA is a leading designer, manufacturer and supplier of premium blank apparel for the printwear, retail, brand specialty and other decorated apparel markets.

“The Stedman team has built a strong brand and a culture of excellence, and we’re excited to have them join Next Level Apparel,” said NLA CEO Randy Hales. “This partnership presents a great opportunity to expand and diversify both organizations’ footprints across Europe and the U.S.”

DURST DYE SUB INKS NOW ECO PASSPORT CERTIFIED

Durst has announced that their P5 Sublifix sublimation inks are now ECO PASSPORT by OEKO-TEX certified. This ink certification adds to the sustainable package of the P5 TEX iSUB printer, with breakthrough drying and sublimation features that enable a reduction in energy consumption.

Gildan Activewear has announced the publication of its first stand-alone Climate Change Disclosure Report structured in accordance with the Task Force on Climate-Related Financial Disclosures (TCFD) recommendations.

The report highlights how Gildan assesses, prepares, and integrates climate-related matters into its business processes and represents a significant step towards fully aligning with the TCFD framework by 2025, as part of Gildan’s commitments under its Next Generation ESG strategy.

Peter Iliopoulos, senior vice-president, taxation, sustainability, and governmental affairs at Gildan, said: “Gildan has been monitoring and addressing climaterelated risks and opportunities for over 15 years and the TCFD framework allows us to better understand our physical and transitional risks, as well as opportunities to enhance our resiliency over the long-run.”

Gildan’s 2022 Climate Change Disclosure Report is part of the Company’s 2022 reporting suite, which includes the 2021 Annual Report and 2021 ESG Report that were published earlier this year.

OEKO-TEX ECO PASSPORT is an independent certification system for chemicals, colourants and auxiliaries used in the textile and leather industry. During a multistep process, each ingredient in the chemical product has been analysed to meet the statutory requirements.

Certified products are safe for human and environmental health, can be used for ecologically responsible textile production and are listed in the OEKO-TEX Buying Guide.

Durst says the certification gives customers an accelerated and costoptimized certification process of their production chain according to OEKO-TEX STeP and their final products according to OEKO-TEX STANDARD 100.

Leapfrog Machinery brings manufacturing back to Australia

SYDNEY BASED SCREEN PRINTING MACHINERY SUPPLIER LEAPFROG MACHINERY DECIDED LAST YEAR TO RETURN TO THEIR MANUFACTURING ROOTS, DUSTING OFF THE WELDER AND METALWORKING EQUIPMENT TO PRODUCE THE COUNTRY'S ONLY 15AMP SINGLE-PHASE QUARTZ FLASH.

units, although emitting heat constantly, are non-discriminatory and dry at the same rate across all colours.

With improvements in technology, today's Quartz Flash units generally employ orange light quartz lamps with a non-discriminatory wavelength. Leapfrog Machinery may also be able to Retrofit your old Flash with the new orange light quartz lamps.

Founder and CEO of Leapfrog Machinery, Howard Debney, said, "The decision was precipitated by some of his screen printing clients not being able to take advantage of the efficiencies inherent in Quartz Flash units because they either had limited power in their factories or worked from studios without 3 phase power."

Quartz curing has traditionally been a fast, efficient way of touch drying the top layer of a first down colour, so that the next colour can be overprinted without lifting the original layer of ink. The more traditional design of flash units employs ceramic elements or IR panels which constantly radiate heat. While these units are also very effective, the heat emitted into the work area is constant, in direct contrast to the Quartz Flash

units, which are automatically activated via a cat's whisker switch or electronic sensor. They flash for the time required and then turn off automatically until triggered by the next turn of the carousel.

Until recent years many of the more affordable Quartz Flash units employed white light quartz lamps, which while effective due to the sheer "cooking power", had the downside of being discriminatory in terms of colour drying. The wavelength of the white light lamps is not ideal for curing white inks, even though it is the most common colour needing flashing. The heat from the white light quartz lamps tends to be reflected off the white and light-coloured inks while being absorbed by the darker colours, thereby drying them at a faster rate than the light colours. In contrast, the IR panels in the traditional flash

Leapfrog Machinery's FlashBoss 4045 Quartz Flash has been designed to give the operator with power limitations or no access to 3 phase power, the ability to have a similarly efficient and comfortable work environment as those with 3 phase power. Debney says, "of course, the relationship between power input and heat output does mean that the flash time is longer; however, by maximising the heating design, we believe the gains will outweigh that consideration for many printers caught in the power squeeze.

The FlashBoss's features and benefits include:

• Power supply: 15Amp 240V Single phase

• Heat Area: 450 long x 400mm wide with heat across six elements for even heat spread.

• Fan forced Air / Orange Light lamps / Accurate Timer Control / Test function / Cats Whisker micro switch Activation / Sturdy Powdercoat paint finish.

• Complete with Mobile height adjustable stand with lockable castors.

• Flat packs for Freight Savings

According to McConnell there were several key reasons for buying the F2160 as opposed to other DTG printers.

She continued, “We looked at other, larger printers but we decided not to buy them for a number of reasons. With several, extra and smaller F2160s we could print more than one job at a time. Also, we wanted to be able to print unlimited colours, which is why we opted for DTG printing not screen printing. I also wanted a printer that was reliable, with easy maintenance and had great tech support and training – all of which we received from the Epson F2160 and Epson’s premium reseller, Machines Plus.”

Highline Racewear wins with Epson SureColor F2160

DTG printers

HIGHLINE RACEWEAR STATE PUBLICLY THAT THEY, “DON'T CARE ABOUT STATUS. THEY ONLY CARE THAT THEIR CUSTOMERS ARE WEARING SOMETHING THAT IS 100% SAFE, LOOKS AWESOME AND IS MADE TO A VERY HIGH STANDARD!”

With that in mind their choice when purchasing direct-to-garment (DTG) printers led them to Epson and the SureColor F2160, the company’s latest generation DTG printer, which features enhanced production flexibility, higher productivity, reduced maintenance and a lower running cost.

Highline Racewear’s Fiona McConnell explained, “We used to outsource

our designs for printing but found that there were too many mistakes being made in areas such as colour issues and placement. So, after a couple of years of research, we bit the bullet and decided to buy one Epson F2160 for Highline Racewear. Due to its success and our purchase of the Speedy Tees business, we went on to purchase several more F2160s.”

Highline Racewear often print the same design on all of their F2160 machines enabling them to turn larger jobs around far more quickly. Conversely, their Speedy Tees orders are often only a couple of items per order but, again, by using the F2160, they can print multiple jobs simultaneously for the ultimate in flexibility and efficiency.

McConnell is clearly a big fan of the F1260’s quality, variety of output and its straightforward and cost-effective operation as she added, “As we have optimised the settings to suit our workflow, the F2160’s operation is great every time. The quality it produces is amazing. You simply cannot achieve the same level of detail using screen printing. The F2160 can print the tiniest of logos which is perfect for the types of designs produced for Highline Racewear. It also enables us to print single items with ease and thus that our business is more appealing because there is no minimum order quantity (MOQ). This, in turn, means we can target a wider range of customers with affordable custom garments which then creates a higher volume word of mouth reach. The F2160 is also eco-friendly with far fewer consumables involved.”

As you would imagine, Highline Racewear mainly use their F2160s to produce high quality garments for their considerable client base and regularly use the machines to print on t-shirts,

FEATURE

hoodies, blankets, cushion covers, pillowcases and tote bags. They also had a special platen manufactured during the Covid-19 pandemic so they could flat print eight face masks at a time.

The company’s quality control standards are very high. Their operators arrive onsite and nozzle check each machine daily with a head clean taking place once a week or sooner if prompted by the printer.

McConnell added, “The F2160s are wiped often and we have great climate control in our warehouse now so they don’t overheat or run cold. Orders are produced in order of priority. As we have so many different collections online at one time, our orders are sorted into the same design, pretreated, piled on top of each other to keep flat next to each printer. They are then run through the tunnel dyer, pressed, folded, tagged and packed. The F2160s are at the very heart of our workflow.”

All in all, for a company the size of Highline Racewear with the volume of garments they produce, it’s clear that their choice of DTG printer is critical and key to the company’s success.

Fiona McConnell concluded, “Before purchasing the F2160 we did our research and read the reviews on these printers. Given how good they are and the ease of using them, we purchased more than we initially thought we would. When we purchased Speedy Tees we inherited some DTG printers that were slow, unreliable, had inconsistent quality and awful maintenance. The Epson F2160s eliminated all of those issues. We can now print single items so when customers have smaller orders, it’s no hassle to print them quickly and we can even print a front and back right in front of a customer if we want to, in minutes. We can print five t-shirts with the same design if we want to, or five different prints at once. In short and as a result of having the Epson F2160s, we believe we now have the best printers in the market and the best support when using them.”

A unicorn in fabric and merchandise production

STUNNING FABRIC & MERCHANDISE PRODUCTION MADE SIMPLE

With unprecedented productivity and image quality, these advanced new models give you the power to say ‘yes’ to more work.

• Outstanding print speed with exceptional image quality

• Vibrant and consistent colour, job after job

• Industrial strength, user replaceable print heads*

• High capacity ink supplies with heavy duty media support

• Cloud-based production tool for managing your print business*

• Remote monitoring and diagnostics for pro-active service and support*

• On-site CoverPlus service packages up to 5 years

Textile Trends & Technologies to be Showcased in Sydney

THERE ARE FEW SECTORS MOVING FASTER THAN TEXTILES, AND THE LATEST TRENDS AND TECHNOLOGIES IN THIS EXCITING AREA WILL BE ON DISPLAY AT VISUAL IMPACT SYDNEY, THE HARBOUR CITY’S FIRST IN-PERSON EXHIBITION FOR SIGN, DISPLAY AND TEXTILES IN FIVE YEARS.

Thousands are expected to attend the show, which will run from 3-5 May at the Sydney Showground, Sydney Olympic Park, with registrations already received from the Sydney area, NSW and other states of Australia, New Zealand and other regional markets.

Like its previous iterations, the Sydney show will have a strong focus on textiles, digital print and sublimation technologies, soft signage and garment

printing, industrial manufacturing and finishing, alongside a range of other signage, display and print solutions.

As well as providing a comprehensive display of the latest innovations, the show will give visitors an opportunity to see market trends and the influence of new developments in technology and materials, first-hand, and gather information, ideas and inspiration to help them ‘envision their success’, as the show’s theme suggests.

TRENDS ON SHOW

Always an integral part of the Visual Impact shows, textiles have become even more popular over recent years as the range of applications, and market demand, continues to grow for everything from pull-up banners to the ubiquitous printed tee shirt.

“Like other areas of print, signage and displays, the demand for textile products which are imaged and customised to suit a wide variety of applications is growing year-on-year,” says Sarah Moore, Business Development Manager for the show’s organisers, Visual Connections.

“Digital print technologies have played a huge role in this, of course, making imaging and customisation easier and more cost-effective, while more sophisticated framing systems and highprecision finishing technologies have increased the range of applications – and

the sophistication of the end results –driving uptake in the retail, interior fitout, and exhibition and display industries, among others.

“While printed textiles have always been a staple of the TCF industry, digital technologies have opened up new areas from more sophisticated branded apparel and promotional items, to customised designer goods and interiors. Really, the range of options is almost endless, from a standard printed tee shirt or pullup banner, to the most sophisticated illuminated retail display.

“Visual Impact will showcase a full range of exciting developments in everything from banners and flags, to light-weight stretchable printed fabric displays; illuminated panels; curtain and upholstery fabrics; fabric wall papers; one-off customised products; leather, upholstery and window furnishing; shade sails and tension structures; blinds and awnings,” Moore says.

“Visual Impact Sydney will provide the perfect opportunity for business owners and key decision makers to see a whole range of options under one roof, compare and evaluate solutions from multiple vendors, connect with the experts, and make important investment decisions to build future success.”

SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE

Visual Impact will enable visitors to investigate and evaluate everything from software and workflows, to fabrics and specialised textiles, print and imaging solutions, finishing and display systems, and more, to see how they can capitalise on new opportunities, and equip themselves for success.

“The list of exhibitors is growing by the week,” Moore reports, “and we are already expecting to see some exciting innovations to suit a wide variety of applications and industries.

Among the leading names who have already earmarked their stands for the show are Platinum Sponsor Roland DG, Gold Sponsors Epson, Euro Poles, HP, Pozitive, Spicers, Starleaton and Trotec Laser.

Also confirmed are Aeronaut Automation, Alfex CNC, Ball & Doggett, Celmac, CMYKhub, Elizabeth Machines, EPSON, Guangzhou CN International, HP, Impression Technology, Mimaki, Multicam, Mutoh Australia, Paper Handling Equipment (PHE), Pozitive Sign & Graphics Supplies, Quote & Print, Roland DG, Rowmark Australia, SALed Australia, SAS Signage Accessories Suppliers, Spicers Australia, Starleaton, Sublimation Systems, Trotec Laser and Velflex.

“Print will be front and centre at Visual Impact, with a range of imaging solutions to suit everything from vinyls, synthetics and specialised textiles, to natural cottons, linen, silk and leather, PVC and canvas,” Moore says.

“These will include digital wide-format printing including latex and acqueous solutions, dye-sublimation and heat transfer printing, direct-to-fabric solutions, and direct-to-garment printing from benchtop tee-shirt presses through to semi-automated direct-togarment machines. Visitors will also be able to view the latest in embroidery and stitching, as well as engraving solutions which can be used to mark and distress fabrics.

“These imaging solutions will be complemented by a wide range of finishing options including highprecision laser cutting systems, sewing machines, systems for seaming, welding, trimming, eyeletting and more – together with all the accessories and support services that go with the manufacturing process.”

This will be backed by on-stand expertise, which can help business owners understand what’s possible, and how the technologies and innovations on show may be applicable for their particular business and clientele.

VISUAL IMPACT EXPO

COVER STORY

“We expect most of the systems and textiles on display will be those which are most popular for commercial applications in this part of the world,” she says, “however visitors can certainly chat to exhibitors about other exciting emergent technologies which are being developed internationally, whether that’s geomembrane and geotextile products, hydrophobic or anti-microbal fabrics, shape memory polymers, or conductive and sensory-capable technologies for intelligent and wearable solutions.

“There’s such a lot happening, and Visual Impact will bring together the experts so you can stay informed and be ready to capitalise on new trends.”

BE INFORMED, BE INSPIRED

Speaking of information and inspiration, a packed program of seminar sessions will be held during the show to complement the exhibition and help put the showcase into context.

“While our team is still finalising the program, I can say that this will include expert presentations on business opportunities, trends and technologies; panel discussions where local industry experts will tackle the burning issues; and technical sessions to help business owners understand just where technology is going…and how that might help their business,” Moore says.

“It’s great to be getting back to live events again in Sydney, as it allows us to bring a whole range of benefits at a level which simply wasn’t possible over the past few years,” Moore says.

Visual Impact Sydney will be held at the Sydney Showground, Sydney Olympic Park from 3-5 May inclusive under the theme, ‘Envision Your Success’. Registrations are now open, Go to visualimpact.org.au for a full floorplan, travel and accommodation deals, and the latest show information. Suppliers who have not yet booked a space can reserve one of the remaining stands by calling the Visual Connections office on (02) 9868 1577 or by emailing charlyb@visualconnections.org.au or sarahm@visualconnections.org.au

PrintLocker powering to new heights in personalised printing

When co-founders Marino Tribuzio and Melissa Trewella founded PrintLocker in 2013, they took a calculated risk. "I had just sold an offset printing company, and Mel had been working for around ten years in a signage and screen printing business. We were looking for something new and knew there was a market for oneoff tees. DTG was pretty new back then; there weren't many Australian businesses offering it. We thought we'd give it a go, and here we are", says Marino.

Like many successful small businesses, PrintLocker began in the basement of the family home, in this case, with one

Anajet printer. Within six months, a Brother GTX was added to the mix, followed by a second two months later. "Moving from the basement to a shop front in Bulleen in 2014 fuelled further growth, and fortunately, the store next door became available, so we took on that lease and knocked a hole in the wall, which enabled us to stay there for a couple of years. The extra space enabled us to invest in our first Kornit Storm, with a second to follow soon after. Moving to the Kornit machines helped increase production capacity significantly. During this time, we began working closely with Kissel and Wolf, who have enabled us to grow from a home business to employing over 20

staff. They have been with us every step of the way and have been instrumental in our growth.", explains Marino.

"Further growth saw us move to our current facility in Alphington. During this period, we upgraded our two Kornit Storms to the Kornit Storm HD; then, in 2020, we traded them in to Kissel + Wolf as part of their used equipment program, and upgraded to two Avalanche HD6 printers. We decided to upgrade to the Avalanches because, at the time, they were the number one production machine in the industry. The dual print heads gave us far greater production capacity, this combined with the ink cost saving, made it the perfect machine for us at the time", says Marino.

FEATURE

PrintLockers' growth has been underpinned by investment in their website and systems and their laserlike focus on customer service. "We have extended our reach by enabling personalisation through online design tools and enabling customers to brand their own website through our affiliate program. We service a wide variety of customers, from small businesses and sporting clubs to large corporate customers, trade customers and events. We also offer a range of promotional products and different decorative techniques, including heat transfer and embroidery, making us a one-stop shop," explains Marino.

“A critical factor in our ongoing success has been our team, which currently stands at more than 20 people. Our recent appointment of Jashmal Gosai as our CEO, who has been a longstanding employee, we believe will take our company to the next level as he will be overseeing all operations including branding, advancements in our technologies and marketing. We have some long-standing employees that have been with us almost from the onset; over the years, we have recruited people in all aspects of the business, some referred to us and some that we advertised for. Training is all done in-house, and we rely on our experienced employees, especially in our print department, to train new staff. We are very particular with our quality, and our staff pride themselves on producing quality work. We've never hired anyone with prior experience in DTG printing, as it's such a niche industry. Experienced printers are a scarce commodity, so we focus on hiring great people willing to learn and

back our team to be able to train them. We have some incredible print operators who are amazing at what they do, and we're super proud of them. It's the same with our warehouse and QC/Packing teams. Everyone works extremely hard and wants to do their job to the best of their abilities, working together to make the entire workplace as efficient as possible."

"To stay ahead of the curve, we have closely followed leading companies in the industry, such as Custom Ink and Spreadshirt. We try to create a great working culture similar to the Googles and Canvas of this world; we have an open workspace and a very friendly atmosphere, which makes, in my opinion, PrintLocker not only productive but a great place for people to work", says Marino.

Jon Field, Sales and Business Development Director Kissel and Wolf,

observes, "Marino and Mel combine as a great team and have all the key pillars in place that truly great businesses have. Outstanding culture, market leading technology, an easy to navigate interface / online ordering system, customer driven processes and a real eye towards quality and the highest standards in customer service. It's one big family down at the PrintLocker, and it's no surprise that many of their staff and suppliers have 'stuck thick' for the long haul with them. They are a real pleasure to do business with and are always looking for the next great thing that will provide them with a strategic competitive edge over their competition while delivering a better experience to their customers. If ever there was a customer driven business, then PrintLocker (Marino and Mel) are it. I look forward to assisting them in growing their business every day and well into the future."

How to be a more sustainable print shop AND improve your bottom line

PAMELA MANNELL, FOUNDER OF T-1 PRINT IN MARRICKVILLE, SYDNEY, IS ONE OF AUSTRALIA’S LEADING APPAREL DECORATORS AND HAS CHAMPIONED THE DEVELOPMENT AND IMPLEMENTATION OF SUSTAINABLE PRACTICES FOR PRINTING BUSINESSES FOR OVER FIFTEEN YEARS. PAMELA SAT DOWN WITH TEXTILE IMAGE MAGAZINE TO SHARE HER EXPERIENCE AND PRACTICAL INSIGHTS THAT CAN BE IMPLEMENTED IN ANY PRINT SHOP TO IMPROVE BOTH SUSTAINABILITY AND PROFITABILITY. IN THIS FIRST ARTICLE OF OUR SERIES OF ARTICLES, WE FOCUS ON OPPORTUNITIES TO BE MORE SUSTAINABLE WHEN IT COMES TO PACKAGING.

“There is no one single resource when it comes to learning about sustainability for printing businesses”, explains Pamela. “You just have to keep searching and investigating, learning from people in our industry both here and overseas and watching what happens in other industries. Also using resources such as the Environmental Protection Agency and taking advantage

of programs and grants offered by the government and local council. When I first started this journey fifteen years ago, my goal was to become accredited as part of the Sustainable Green Business Recognition Program through the SGIA in the USA. Unfortunately, they stopped running the program outside of America: however, one of the key things I took away from the time that I did spend working with them is

the need to change your mindset so that you include building sustainability into your business as part of your continuous improvement process. By treating it as continuous improvement, it doesn’t become intimidating or overwhelming, you just tackle one opportunity at a time, and it also encourages your whole team to get involved, which is a real positive,” says Pamela.

SUSTAINABILITY

FEATURE

“The first question people always ask is, where do I start? We started by focusing on plastic. It wasn’t that long ago that each garment we printed came in a single use plastic bag! Fortunately, these days suppliers now supply 100 garments inside one plastic liner that is also compostable. In NSW, the state government offers a program called BIN TRIM. If you participate in this program, a recycling expert comes out and works with you to assess your business to identify types and quantities of waste and what can be recycled. There are government grants ranging from $1,000 to $50,000 to offset up to 50% of the cost of any equipment you need onsite

to help recycle your waste. As a result of this program, we compact all plastic that comes into our business into bales. Then once every six months, we send a pallet of plastic bales to a company called Plastic Forests who makes products from recycled plastic such as fence posts and garden products.”

“In terms of return on investment, it has definitely paid itself back", explains Pamela, “but the biggest satisfaction for me came from not having to watch a skip full of plastic getting taken to the dump every week.”

$10,000 - Cost of Baler

$5,000 - 50% Bin Trim government rebate on baler

$4,500 - Average cost per annum to remove 1.5m skip full of plastic (weekly pick up)

$600 - Cost to ship two pallets per year to Plastic Forests

Reducing waste can help your business clients to attract more customers, achieve sustainability credentials, improve staff motivation and reduce costs. More than 38,000 businesses have diverted over 145,000 tonnes of waste from landfill with Bin Trim.

For more information visit www.epa.nsw.gov.au/working-together/ grants/business-recycling/bin-trim-grants

The new Bin Trim Networks program opened on 12 December 2022. Applications close on 24 March 2023.

"We then proceeded to look at all the types of plastic we were using. In addition to compacting and baling all the plastic that comes into the business, T-1 uses Biogone’s recyclable tapes for packing, biodegradable bags for factory waste and recyclable pallet wrap for palletising prior to dispatch.

When it comes to folding and bagging individual garments, T-1 offers a standard recyclable plastic bag, a compostable plastic bag and belly banding. The positive trend is that customers are choosing sustainable packaging options, with 80% of all products that T-1 dispatch packaged in compostable bags or belly banded, even though the packaging is slightly more expensive.

Looking more broadly at packaging, adhesive spray cans are collected and placed into bins for metal recycling. Pallets are recycled into industrial furniture, such as stacking tables used throughout the factory and used as garden furniture. Cardboard is recycled for use as mannequins for trade shows.

"Wherever you look, there are opportunities in your business to be sustainable. Just pick one thing at a time to focus on so it doesn’t become too daunting," concludes Pamela.

Ecofreen DTF products now available Nationally with Machines Plus

IN THE DIRECT TO GARMENT (DTG) WORLD THERE IS MORE TALK ABOUT DTF (DIRECT TO FILM) THAN EVER BEFORE. THE DTG MARKET HAS ALWAYS BEEN A CONSTANTLY EVOLVING ONE BUT IS NOW MOVING INTO A NEW PHASE WITH DTF.

What is Ecofreen DTF and how can I introduce it into my workflow?

Direct to Film technology is an ink transfer process for durable decal prints for fabrics and other substrates using DTG printers water based inks. For a long time garment decoration companies have run multiple print devices for both the DTG and Heat Transfer Vinyl (HTV) applications. The great benefit of DTF film is that you can now get the benefits of HTV using just a single print device in your DTG printer. The other great advantage to introducing DTF into your workflow is its ability to overcome a longstanding drawback to DTG, synthetic fibers.

So how do I use my current DTG printer to produce DTF prints?

Instead of printing directly to a garment in DTF you print to sheets specially formulated to hold the inks and produce decals like in HTV without the waste. Powdered adhesive is then applied to the decal forming a transfer ready for curing. But how do you cure the print if it's printed on a film rather than a t-shirt? You can use your existing heat press or tunnel dryer, simply by adjusting your temperature and timer to melt the adhesive layer and cure the ink making the DTF transfer ready for pressing.

What applications can I consider using DTF?

● Pockets

● Sleeves

● Caps

● Difficult to align applications

● Synthetic Fabrics

● Polyblends and more…

A bunch of fruit loops cheerios. in a world of

WHAT WE SPECIALISE IN:

To meet the evolving market requirements for DTF, Machines Plus have partnered with Ecofreen (Distributors of Epson DTG and Dye Sub in Korea) an innovative manufacturer of pre-treater machines, paper and films. With a focus on R&D, Ecofreen delivers superior and outstanding features in terms of durability and results for DTF on DTG print platforms. Their films and powders have been extensively tested to deliver great results when used in conjunction with Machines Plus’ Epson Direct to Garment printers.

What should you expect from the Ecofreen product?

● Consistent Quality & Coating

● High Ink Loading

● AntiStatic treatment

● Hot Peel for fast production

● No Oil release under temperature

● Matt Finish

● High resolution

Ecofreen films are available from Machines Plus in 300 sheet packs available in 14”X16” and 16”x20” sizes. These sizes are perfectly suited to most DTG standard and large platens to minimise potential waste.

Also available from Machines Plus is the Ecofreen Black Powder. The Black powder has been specifically formulated for use with black garments to eliminate the white speckle common with the lighter colour adhesive powders.

Both Ecofreen Standard and Black powders are available in 1 pound and 1kg bags.

We understand the value that their products can bring to our customers, and we want to ensure that our customers get the most out of their investment.

To showcase the Ecofreen product in conjunction with Epson we will be running events in Victoria, New South Wales, and Queensland in 2023. These events will be announced on our website www.machinesplus.com. au, and we will show step-by-step how to get the best results with Ecofreen's products using Epson DTG printers.

If you're interested in attending one of these events, please drop us an email at events@machinesplus.com.au to secure your place ( limited numbers). We look forward to helping you get the most out of your investment in DTF technology.

Prices determined using a range of sources including:

• Results of the most recent Sign Price Benchmarking Survey (100+ sign companies participated)

• Using a commercial quoting system to apply latest labour and material costs with profitable margins

• Comparing supply prices from trade suppliers for commonly outsourced products

Print or Press? Mastering the art of heat transfer

PERSONALISATION IS IN HOT DEMAND AND INCREASINGLY PRINTERS ARE TURNING TO HEAT TRANSFER AND DIRECT-TO-FILM (DTF) AS THE ANSWER. VELFLEX HELPS

BUSINESSES TO PRODUCE TRANSFERS THEMSELVES, OR ALTERNATIVELY OUTSOURCE THROUGH THEIR CUSTOM TRANSFER BUSINESS ULTRACOLOUR.

or full t-shirt print, will stay for 50 plus washes.

For most existing print businesses who will have a print and/or cut set up this process is easily achievable with the addition of a heat press and suddenly you’re a garment printer. Velflex is experienced at helping print businesses do just that. Velflex provides all the consumables, hardware and training required for would be garment decorators.

Printers traditionally have leant towards heat transfer due to the relative simplicity in-terms of being able to utilise existing equipment and the lack of pretreatment required for application to the garments. There are also some other benefits such as the low production costs, cost efficiency on short runs and full-colour designs. However, some trade off are the durability (compared to embroidery) and time constraints of weeding HTV designs.

A new eraDirect-to-film heat transfers

Printing onto t-shirts, totes, promotional items, etc. is potentially one of the best ways for print businesses to increase their revenue. However, the demand for fast turnarounds is increasingly leading companies to turn to in-house or onshore solutions. Enter heat transfer, a flexible garment personalisation solution that requires minimal investment.

Tried and testedHeat transfer vinyls

Heat transfer printing is traditionally done using heat transfer vinyls (HTV), a design is cut or digitally printed using an eco-solvent printer onto the vinyl with the excess vinyl around the design being ‘weeded’ off before it is then heat pressed onto the garment. There your final design, whether small cap logo

While heat transfer has traditionally used vinyls applied to the garment, DTF digitally prints in mirror directly onto a PET release film before a hot melt powder adhesive is added to the wet ink. This can then be cured before heat pressing onto the garment to avoid glue spread. It addresses one of the major issues facing printers of heat transfer vinyl - the fine detail weeding that makes some intricate designs impossible to reproduce and/ or extortionately expensive in labour costs. However, unlike HTV it cannot

The transfer of the future, Ben demonstrating the Velflex DTF machine at PacPrint

be printed using an existing eco-solvent printer and requires a specialty printer (or DTG conversion), ink and a powder machine. Again Velflex can provide this technology to businesses looking to make the foray. Mandy Olivier, general manager at Velflex, says, “DTF is the the future, and is well suited to the short-run, on-demand market .” Velflex now has its new DTF consumables ready for market, with a special dedicated printer unit demoing on the Velflex stand at the Visual Impact Sydney show in May this year.

But, for those who don’t want to make the investment just yet into the hardware required Velflex has another solutionready-to-press custom transfers.

Outsourcing those ‘tricky’ jobs

Printed here in Australia UltraColour custom transfers are is a water based technology that is a combination of DTF and screen-printing. It turns a customers design into a custom printed transfer with just a one-day turnaround. All they need to do is heat apply them to their garment.

Unique in Australia, UltraColour was founded 8 years ago by Velflex owner Ben Carroll and has now grown to a team of 45 employees with three automated printing lines running 16 hours a day. “We are here to make printers lives easy” says Carroll “take away the pain points and enable them to say yes to every job!”

Ready for distpatch - UltraColour produces up to 20,000 transfers a day for customers

It’s been five years since we were able to bring the very latest innovations for the print, sign, display, engraving and wider graphics sector to Sydney, but now, Visual Impact Sydney is back!

Join our sponsors, Roland DG, Epson, EuroPoles, HP, Pozitive, Spicers, Starleaton, Trotec and many other industry leaders who will be showcasing their latest products, innovations; and services to meet the needs of the post pandemic market. Now is your chance to envision your success at the industry’s favourite show.

EXHIBITION DETAILS:

Halls 5 & 6

Sydney Showground, Sydney Olympic Park

OPENING HOURS

Wednesday 3rd May 10am – 6pm

Thursday 4th May 10am – 6pm

Friday 5th May 10am – 4pm

Proudly sponsored by

PLATINUM SPONSOR

GOLD SPONSORS

For more information on the show and to register, please visit www.visualimpact.org.au or contact the Event Organisers on T: +61 29868 1577 E: exhibitions@visualconnections.org.au