The DTF Journey of Denise Bayer!

Starting a business from scratch is always a challenging yet rewarding journey. I recently came across a fascinating story about Denise Bayer, the owner of DB Custom Creations, who transitioned from being a full-time realtor to running a successful Direct-to-Film (DTF) printing business. Her journey is filled with valuable insights and lessons that can inspire and guide anyone interested in DTF printing. Let's dive into her story and explore the world of DTF printing.

From Realtor to DTF Printing Entrepreneur

Denise's journey into the world of DTF printing began during the COVID-19 pandemic. As a full-time realtor, her work came to a halt, and she found herself with time on her hands. It was then that she stumbled upon a video about DTF printing, which piqued her interest. She started small, converting a desktop printer she bought from Amazon into a DTF printer. This initial step marked the beginning of her venture into the DTF printing business.

"I saw somebody with a video with a DTF printer, a converted one, and I actually reached out to this person," Denise recalls. Despite initial setbacks, she persevered and began selling transfers, which quickly gained popularity.

The Growth and Expansion

Starting from her living room, Denise's business rapidly expanded. She moved from her living room to her garage and eventually to a warehouse. This growth was driven by her commitment to quality and customer service. "We have a formal dining and living room, so we started in that formal living room, expanded into the dining room, to the kitchen," she shares.

The business now operates from a 4,600 square foot space, equipped with commercial printers and a dedicated team. Denise emphasizes the importance of having a supportive team, stating, "I couldn't do it without my team, you know, and I have a great team."

Overcoming Challenges

Running a DTF printing business comes with its own set of challenges. Denise highlights the importance of having technical skills to troubleshoot and maintain the printers. "You have to know how to work on your own printers, you have to have that technical ability to be able to troubleshoot it and figure it out," she advises.

Environmental factors also play a significant role in the DTF printing process. Denise mentions the need to regulate the environment to ensure the quality of prints. "Your environment plays such a huge role," she notes. This includes managing humidity levels and temperature to prevent issues with the printers and the prints.

The Importance of Quality Supplies

One of the key takeaways from Denise's experience is the importance of using high-quality supplies. She advises against buying supplies from unreliable sources, emphasizing the need for consistency and reliability. "Don't buy supplies off Amazon... even if you have a great company that you purchased from, you really need to have some type of technical ability to troubleshoot," she says.

Customer Service and Community

Denise's business model heavily focuses on customer service and building a community. She believes in providing top-notch service and being accessible to her customers. "We have a phone and we would prefer people to call us," she explains. Her team is always ready to assist customers, whether it's through phone calls or in-person visits to their warehouse.

Denise also values the importance of networking and learning from others in the industry. She actively participates in DTF groups and forums, sharing her knowledge and learning from others. "Networking with other shop owners, learning what they're doing in their business is just so paramount," she states.

Embracing Technology and Innovation

As the DTF printing industry evolves, Denise is keen on staying ahead by embracing new technologies and innovations. She mentions the advancements in DTF printers and the importance of keeping up with the latest trends. "I think as the technology evolves, it's going to be easier and easier," she predicts.

Denise's business has also diversified its offerings, including UV DTF printing, decals, and laser patches. This diversification has helped her cater to a broader range of customers and stay competitive in the market.

Tips for Aspiring DTF Printing Entrepreneurs

For those considering entering the DTF printing space, Denise offers several valuable tips:

1. Start Small and Scale Gradually: Begin with a small setup and gradually expand as your business grows. This approach allows you to manage costs and learn the ropes without overwhelming yourself.

2. Invest in Quality Equipment and Supplies: High-quality printers and supplies are crucial for producing consistent and reliable prints. Avoid cutting corners on these essentials.

3. Develop Technical Skills: Being able to troubleshoot and maintain your equipment is vital. This skill can save you time and money in the long run.

4. Focus on Customer Service: Building strong relationships with your customers through excellent service can set you apart from the competition.

5. Stay Informed and Network: Keep up with industry trends and network with other professionals. Learning from others can provide valuable insights and help you avoid common pitfalls.

6. Be Patient and Persistent: Building a successful business takes time and effort. Be patient, stay persistent, and don't be afraid to seek help when needed.

Conclusion

Denise Bayer's journey from a realtor to a successful DTF printing entrepreneur is a testament to the power of perseverance, innovation, and community. Her story offers valuable lessons for anyone interested in starting a DTF printing business. By focusing on quality, customer service, and continuous learning, you can build a thriving business in the ever-evolving world of DTF printing.

Whether you're just starting out or looking to expand your existing business, Denise's insights and tips can guide you on your journey. Embrace the challenges, stay committed to excellence, and watch your DTF printing business flourish.