Transitioning to DTF Printing with Davis Slagle

In the ever-evolving world of textile printing, Direct-to-Film (DTF) printing has emerged as a game-changer. Recently, I had the pleasure of hearing from Davis Slagle, VP of B Graphics in Fredericktown, Pennsylvania, about his company's journey into the world of DTF printing. Davis shared some fascinating insights and experiences that highlight the transformative power of this innovative printing technique.



Table of Contents


Discovering DTF Printing

Davis's introduction to DTF printing was serendipitous. He first heard about it while walking the SNS floor outside of Chicago before Shirt Lab. At that time, he was deeply entrenched in the world of wide-format and screen printing. The pandemic, however, forced a reevaluation of business strategies. With business at a standstill and a need to innovate, Davis began researching DTF printing. This led him on a global journey, from New Zealand to China, to understand and acquire the necessary technology.


The Early Challenges

The initial phase of adopting DTF printing was anything but smooth. Davis described the early days as "very rough," with no local suppliers, inconsistent quality of consumables, and a steep learning curve. He recounted working through the night with Chinese suppliers to understand the process. Despite these challenges, Davis and his team saw the potential of DTF printing and persevered.


Transforming the Business

Once the DTF technology was up and running, B Graphics underwent a significant transformation. They sold their screen printing presses and dedicated an entire room to DTF printing and heat transfers. This shift allowed them to offer on-demand online store printing, which became a core part of their business model. Davis emphasized the flexibility and efficiency that DTF printing brought to their operations, enabling them to handle rush orders and complex designs with ease.


Employee Adaptation and Training

Transitioning from screen printing to DTF printing required significant changes in staff roles and training. Davis highlighted the difficulty of finding and retaining skilled screen printers, which was a driving factor in the transition. Existing employees were retrained to handle the new DTF printers and heat press operations. The simplicity of training for DTF heat transfers compared to screen printing setup was a notable advantage.


Technical Insights and Maintenance

Davis shared valuable technical insights into maintaining DTF printers. He stressed the importance of a clean and controlled environment, likening their print room to a surgical room. Regular maintenance schedules and a deep understanding of the equipment's nuances were crucial to ensuring consistent quality and minimizing downtime.


Customer Perception and Market Adaptation

One interesting aspect of the transition was customer perception. Davis noted that most customers do not concern themselves with the specific printing method used, as long as the final product meets their expectations. This allowed B Graphics to seamlessly integrate DTF printing into their offerings without disrupting customer relationships. They continued to contract out screen printing jobs when appropriate, ensuring they could meet diverse customer needs.


Pricing and Competitive Strategy

Regarding pricing, Davis explained that they adjust their prices annually to remain competitive. They developed a tiered pricing structure based on the complexity and quantity of designs, ensuring they could compete with traditional screen printing services while leveraging the advantages of DTF printing.


Expanding Reach and Finding Niches

B Graphics has successfully expanded its reach beyond the Pittsburgh area, shipping products across the United States and even internationally. A significant part of their growth strategy involved finding niche markets. For instance, they created a specialized brand, Rugby, to cater to rugby teams and enthusiasts. This niche focus allowed them to build strong relationships within specific communities and tailor their offerings to meet unique needs.


Employee Retention and Company Culture

Davis also emphasized the importance of employee retention and creating a positive work environment. B Graphics celebrates employee anniversaries, offers monthly gift cards, and has implemented a flexible work schedule, including early Friday finishes. These initiatives have fostered a supportive and motivated team, crucial for navigating the challenges of a rapidly changing industry.


Future of DTF Printing

Looking ahead, Davis is excited about the potential advancements in DTF printing technology. He anticipates further automation and integration of AI trends, which will streamline processes and enhance efficiency. The continuous evolution of DTF printing promises to bring even more opportunities for innovation and growth.


Conclusion

The journey of B Graphics into the world of DTF printing is a testament to the power of innovation and adaptability. Despite the initial challenges, Davis and his team have successfully transformed their business, leveraging the flexibility and quality of DTF printing to meet diverse customer needs. As the industry continues to evolve, B Graphics stands ready to embrace new technologies and opportunities, ensuring they remain at the forefront of textile printing.

 

In the dynamic world of textile printing, staying ahead of the curve is essential. DTF printing offers a versatile and efficient solution for businesses looking to expand their offerings and meet the demands of a competitive market. Whether you're a small shop or a large-scale operation, the insights shared by Davis Slagle provide valuable lessons on navigating the transition to DTF printing and harnessing its full potential.

 

For more information about DTF printing techniques, visit our blog where we cover the proper steps in detail.

 

You'll also find a comprehensive guide on how to properly use a Heat Press, including the correct way to Heat Press DTF transfers.

 

Additionally, we help you understand the difference between various Peel techniques, so you can choose the best one for your needs. Discover more about these Peel methods and their advantages on our blog.


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