Tyler Springer's DTF Journey

July 12, 2024

Starting a business is never easy, and launching one during an economic downturn is even more challenging. Tyler Springer, co-owner of Springer Design, has a story that exemplifies resilience, innovation, and the power of embracing new technologies like Direct-to-Film (DTF) printing. Let's dive into the journey of Springer Design and how DTF printing has revolutionized their operations.

The Humble Beginnings

Springer Design was born out of necessity and a bit of youthful audacity. Tyler and his business partner graduated in 2008, right at the onset of the Great Recession. Instead of seeking traditional employment, they decided to start a t-shirt company from their college apartment. "We were dumb enough to do it," Tyler recalls, highlighting their initial naivety and determination.

They began with screen printing, leveraging their college networks to secure orders from local coaches and teams. Despite the challenges, including a high spoilage rate and the complexities of screen printing, they persevered. They even rented a small 900-square-foot building to accommodate their growing business.

The Shift to DTF Printing

Fast forward to recent years, and Springer Design has undergone a significant transformation. The turning point came after a costly mistake with a large contract order. This incident prompted Tyler to reevaluate their processes and explore new technologies. Enter DTF printing.

DTF printing, or Direct-to-Film printing, involves printing designs onto a special film and then transferring them to garments using a heat press. This method has several advantages over traditional screen printing:

No Color Limitations: Unlike screen printing, which requires separate screens for each color, DTF printing allows for unlimited colors and intricate designs without additional setup costs.
Cost-Effective: Especially for small to medium-sized orders, DTF printing reduces setup costs and eliminates the need for expensive screen printing equipment.
Quick Turnaround Time: With reduced setup and preparation time, DTF printing allows for faster production cycles, meeting tight deadlines with ease.
Versatility: DTF transfers can be applied to a wide range of fabrics and items, from t-shirts and hoodies to caps and bags.

Embracing Change and Innovation

Tyler and his team decided to systematically phase out their contract accounts and focus on DTF printing. This shift required a complete reengineering of their processes. "We looked at everything through the eyes of the consumer," Tyler explains. They aimed to eliminate subjective decision-making and streamline their operations.

The results were remarkable. Their spoilage rate dropped from 50% to almost zero, and their profitability soared. Employees, who previously spent long hours in hot, ink-covered environments, now enjoy a more pleasant working atmosphere. "Our employees love working here now," Tyler notes, emphasizing the positive impact on staff morale.

The Benefits of DTF Printing

The transition to DTF printing has brought numerous benefits to Springer Design:

Enhanced Quality and Consistency: DTF printing produces high-quality prints with vibrant colors and sharp details. The designs adhere perfectly to the fabric, ensuring durability and a professional finish.
Flexibility and Customization: With DTF printing, Springer Design can offer their customers more customization options without the constraints of screen printing. This flexibility has been a game-changer for their business.
Improved Customer Experience: Customers now receive their orders faster and with better quality. The ability to fulfill small, customized orders on demand has also opened up new business opportunities.

Overcoming Challenges and Looking Ahead

Transitioning to a new printing method wasn't without its challenges. Tyler emphasizes the importance of research and testing. They worked with multiple vendors, conducted extensive testing, and even had their employees wear and wash test shirts to ensure quality.

Despite the initial skepticism from his sales team, the results spoke for themselves. "Our sales guys are thrilled because they're not dealing with complaints about color discrepancies or quality issues," Tyler says. The streamlined processes and improved product quality have significantly reduced customer complaints and increased satisfaction.

The Future of Springer Design and DTF Printing

Looking ahead, Tyler is optimistic about the future of DTF printing. He believes it will continue to evolve and improve, offering even more possibilities for customization and creativity. "The ceiling's so much higher for DTF than other decoration techniques," he asserts.

Springer Design is also focusing on expanding their e-commerce capabilities and corporate accounts. By inventorying DTF transfers and streamlining their order processes, they can offer faster turnaround times and better service to their clients. "Our turnaround time for established corporate stores is rarely more than 72 hours," Tyler proudly states.

Conclusion

The journey of Springer Design is a testament to the power of innovation and adaptability. By embracing DTF printing, Tyler and his team have transformed their business, improved their product quality, and enhanced their customer experience. As the apparel decoration industry continues to evolve, DTF printing is poised to play a significant role in shaping its future.

For those considering a similar transition, Tyler's advice is simple: "Do your research, talk to lots of people, and don't be afraid to test and innovate." The success of Springer Design shows that with the right approach, embracing new technologies can lead to incredible growth and success.