Not long ago I attended a networking event with a mixed group of business people. We each were given two minutes to give an “infomercial” about what we did and how it could help.
Informatively, Embellished Images by CSDI, specializes in Creative Solutions for Dynamic Identities. We have been operating since 1997 and serve businesses, organizations, and individuals worldwide.
One of the attendees, a new owner of a national franchise that specializes in direct-to-garment (DTG) printing, proudly introduced his services and proceeded to say that “embroidery was old-school and out” and claimed that his printing process was the replacement.
Internally, I thought about his lack of professionalism and the damage this person does to our industry and him.
My next thought was to fight back. However, the more reserved and cautious side of me prevailed and I decided that I could use this experience to help you.
Direct-to-garment printing is a process that uses an inkjet printer to print directly to a cotton garment. . It’s great for small runs with lots of color but does fade with washings. Embellished Images by CSDI adopted the process when the technology was in its infancy.
So your kid needs a couple of tees for a birthday party or school event; maybe the office is having a small get together; or the family is having a reunion, a direct-to-garment printed tee-shirt just might be the answer. Small runs, lots of colors, customized to your needs, and relatively quick production times are the key attributes.
Obviously, DTG print has its place in decorated wearables.
Today’s, embroidery is done by programming an industrial sewing machine with an application that tells the machine where to sew and what color to use. The basic process dates back to the 5th-3rd century BC. There are some limitations to fabrics but you have many more than just one.
Could you image the CEO of a Fortune 500 Company wearing a printed shirt to his next board of directors meeting? Maybe have his initials printed on his shirt cuffs or pocket; or how about his initials printed on the inside of his $1000 sport jacket! How about the waiter in a 5 star restaurant wearing printed shirts?
The point is: Each type of decoration has a message of its own. The message behind DTG is fast, fun, joyful, and cost-effective and sometimes, even cheap; whereas, embroidery says professional, sophisticated, stylish, quality, and longevity, just to stay a few.
Is embroidery dead? No. Our corporate clients request every day. We see nothing that indicates the process is dying.
Is DTG here to stay? Probably. It appears that the technology could be on track to replace traditional screen printing in the years ahead.
Does the “other guy” know what he was talking about? (I’ll leave that up to you.)
Red flags to look for when dealing with the “other guys”:
- Do they always volunteer negative information about the competition?
- Do they ask about your project, item use, and budget needs?
- Do they always promote price as the reason to buy?
- Do they explain your options giving the good and the bad?
Still need help? Please feel free to contact me.