Sean Kirkpatrick's DTF Journey
In the ever-evolving world of custom apparel, staying ahead of the curve is crucial for success. I recently came across an inspiring story about Print Hybrid, a company that has successfully navigated the challenges of the printing industry by embracing Direct-to-Film (DTF) printing. Sean Kirkpatrick, the owner of Print Hybrid in Leet, Texas, shared his journey and insights into how DTF printing has transformed their business. Let's dive into their story and explore the transformative power of DTF printing.
From Humble Beginnings to a Thriving Business
Print Hybrid's journey began in 2001 when Sean Kirkpatrick started doing artwork for a printer while working at a cable company. His passion for art and printing led him to invest in a full-color press and start his own business in 2003. "I manually squeegeed t-shirts for about 18 months and thought there was something better than this," Sean recalls. The introduction of automation, such as the M&R Sportsman, propelled his business to new heights. "I got into that really quick and saw my business skyrocket," he adds.
The Power of Automation and Technology
Automation has played a significant role in Print Hybrid's growth. Sean's investment in advanced equipment like the M&R Gauntlet and the digital squeegee has allowed him to handle larger orders and offer more customization options to clients. "I moved into a bigger building, got a 10-color Gauntlet, and thought I would never need more than 10 colors," Sean shares. However, the demand for more complex designs and the limitations of traditional screen printing led him to explore new technologies.
Embracing DTF Printing: A Game-Changer
DTF printing, or Direct-to-Film printing, involves printing designs onto a film and then transferring them onto fabric using heat. This method offers several advantages over traditional screen printing and Direct-to-Garment (DTG) printing.
Why DTF Printing?
- Versatility: DTF printing works on various fabrics, including cotton, polyester, silk, and synthetic fibers. This flexibility allows Print Hybrid to cater to a diverse range of clients and projects.
- Color Vibrancy: DTF printing can handle intricate designs with multiple colors, making it ideal for reproducing detailed artwork. Sean mentions their work with Charlie Harper's art, which features designs with over 30 spot colors. "When we first learned about DTF, that was one of the first things that came to mind," he says.
- Consistency and Quality: By investing in high-quality DTF equipment, Print Hybrid can control color consistency and print quality. "We found that even though we were sending everybody the same file, we were getting completely different end products," Sean notes. Bringing DTF in-house allowed them to maintain high standards.
The Challenges and Triumphs of DTF Printing
Transitioning to DTF printing wasn't without its challenges. Sean shares, "We tried all kinds of different vendors and what we found was that even though we were sending everybody the same file, we were getting completely different end products." To overcome this, they invested in reliable equipment and worked closely with their supplier to ensure consistency.
One of their first major DTF projects was a 600-piece job for Charlie Harper's "Wings of the World" design. Despite the complexity, the project was a success. "It went great. Once we got the color profiling dialed in, we just went to town printing transfers and pressing shirts," Sean recalls.
Scaling and Automating with DTF
Print Hybrid has seen significant growth since adopting DTF printing. They are now able to handle larger orders and offer more customization options to their clients. Automation has played a crucial role in this growth. "We have like a really good system and we really understand our costs on the screen printing side. We're now working to do the same thing on the DTF side," Sean explains.
Their investment in automation includes equipment like auto coders, computer-to-screen systems, and auto reclaim systems. This has allowed them to reduce staff while increasing output. "We're basically doing more output with less people, and that's allowed us to pay the people we have better and offer more benefits," Sean shares.
The Benefits of Profit Sharing
One of the standout aspects of Print Hybrid's business model is their profit-sharing program. This initiative has not only motivated their staff but also fostered a sense of ownership and accountability. "The way you get your employees on board is you compensate them. People work for money," Sean states.
Their profit-sharing program is based on net operating income and is paid out quarterly. This approach has led to a more engaged and motivated workforce. "They start policing themselves, keeping spoilage down, and thinking about the business's profitability," Sean notes.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Print Hybrid
As Print Hybrid continues to grow, they remain committed to innovation and quality. They are exploring further automation and scaling opportunities in DTF printing. "We're super excited. There's a good chance we'll have another printer before the end of the year," Sean reveals.
Their journey from a small garage operation to a thriving business is a testament to the power of adaptability and innovation. By embracing DTF printing, Print Hybrid has not only enhanced their capabilities but also set a new standard in the custom apparel industry.
Conclusion
The story of Print Hybrid is a shining example of how embracing new technologies like DTF printing can drive growth and success. From their humble beginnings to becoming a leader in the custom apparel industry, their journey is inspiring. As they continue to innovate and expand, there's no doubt that Print Hybrid will remain at the forefront of the industry, delivering high-quality, customized apparel to clients across the country.
Whether you're a business owner looking to explore DTF printing or simply interested in the world of custom apparel, the story of Print Hybrid offers valuable insights and inspiration. As Sean Kirkpatrick aptly puts it, "We're all in when it comes to DTF." And with their dedication to quality, innovation, and community, the future looks bright for Print Hybrid.
