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Showing posts from November, 2024

What is Direct to Film Printing and Should you Offer this Service?

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DTF, a method in the apparel decorating world has become increasingly popular. If you follow any type of printing news or social media, it is very unlikely you haven’t heard this term before. But what exactly is direct to film printing and should your shop offer this as a service? What is Direct to Film Printing? DTF stands for Direct-to-film printing and is a heat-transfer based printing process. Your design is first printed onto a transfer film (not to be confused with inkjet film), then covered with an adhesive powder and finally transferred with a heat press to a garment or substrate of your choice. It is a simple process for apparel decoration however like any method of printing there are advantages and disadvantages. Direct to  Film Printer  and t-shirt with printed transfer Advantages of Direct to Film Printing Film positives, which are essential for creating a sharp and detailed print. The printed films are of high resolution and sharp edges, which allows for cle...

Water-Based vs. Plastisol Ink: Which Is the Best Choice for Printing?

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 Water-Based vs. Plastisol Ink: Which Is the Best Choice for Printing? When it comes to screen printing, the choice of ink can make a significant impact on the final product. Two of the most popular options for screen printing are water-based ink and plastisol ink . Both have their strengths and specific applications, but how do you decide which one is right for your project? In this article, we'll break down the key differences between water-based and plastisol inks, their benefits, and when each is best used. What is Water-Based Ink? Water-based ink is a type of ink that uses water as its primary solvent. The ink particles are suspended in water, which helps the ink remain fluid and easy to apply. Water-based inks are known for their environmental friendliness, as they are typically non-toxic and release fewer volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air compared to plastisol inks. This makes them a popular choice for eco-conscious printers. For more information on water-based...
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8 Effective Time Management Strategies for Your Screen-Printing Shop Time is an invaluable asset in any industry, and effective time management is essential for running a successful business. Whether you’re a full-time business owner or managing a side hustle, you’re likely juggling multiple roles—marketing, production, accounting, customer service, and more—often while balancing a 9-to-5 job and personal commitments. Here are some time management strategies that have proven helpful for both side gig printers and full-time screen printers : 1. Track Your Time Start by logging how much time each task takes. This will help you identify which tasks consume the most time and which can be completed more quickly. By understanding your time commitments, you can better estimate project timelines and provide customers with realistic delivery dates. 2. Prioritize Daily Tasks Establish clear goals for each day. Prioritizing your tasks before you begin will allow you to take control of your time r...