industrydecorator

[industrydecorator]

​CobraFlex DTF Inks Powered by DuPont Artistri®: American-Made Prints

In the dynamic world of custom apparel printing, the demand for vibrant, durable, and efficient solutions has never been higher. CobraFlex’s Direct-to-Film (DTF) inks, powered by DuPont’s Artistri® technology. This collaboration brings together American manufacturing and cutting-edge ink innovation, setting new standards in the DTF printing industry.​​

American Made, American Tough

CobraFlex DTF Inks are proudly manufactured in the United States to ensure the quality and reliability of all their supplies. By producing these inks domestically, CobraFlex supports local economies and guarantees that each batch meets the highest standards of excellence. This commitment to American manufacturing translates to reliable, top-tier products for printers nationwide.

CobraFlex DTF inks are engineered for seamless integration into various printing setups. Their low-viscosity formulation ensures smooth ink flow through printheads, minimizing clogs and reducing maintenance needs. This reliability translates to increased productivity for print shops as well as saving money in the long run.

Environmentally Conscious Formulation

In today’s eco-aware market, sustainable practices are more important than ever. CobraFlex’s DTF inks, powered by DuPont’s Artistri® technology, are formulated with environmental responsibility in mind. They are classified as non-hazardous under the Global Harmonized System (GHS) and do not contain ethylene glycol, aligning with safety and sustainability goals

Strategic Collaboration for Superior Results

The partnership between CobraFlex and DuPont represents a strategic alliance aimed at delivering unparalleled quality in DTF printing. By combining CobraFlex’s expertise in printing solutions with DuPont’s innovative ink technology, this collaboration offers printers a reliable, high-performance ink solution that meets the evolving demands of the custom printing industry. ​

In Conclusion

CobraFlex’s DTF Inks, powered by DuPont’s Artistri® technology, embody the pinnacle of American-made quality, delivering vibrant colors, exceptional durability, and reliable performance. For printers seeking to elevate their offerings and meet the highest standards of custom apparel printing, this ink solution stands out as a premier choice.​

Want to learn more about which decoration method is right for your next project? Ask IndustryDecorator. I’m here to help you make your custom printing journey smoother, smarter, and more successful.

[industrydecorator]

“Bucket of Ink” vs. “Bucket of Inks”: A Deep Dive into Embroidery & Screen Printing from an Industry Decorator

As someone who’s spent more than two decades living and breathing custom apparel, I’ve learned that no two decoration processes are created equal—and neither are the resources that support them. That’s why I want to clear up a common point of confusion and, more importantly, spotlight an incredibly valuable resource for decorators: the difference between “Bucket of Ink” and “Bucket of Inks”—two sides of the same powerhouse company, Buckets of Ink.

While they share a name and mission—to support and supply the custom apparel industry—their focus areas are distinct, and knowing which side to tap into can mean the difference between good production and great production.

Let’s break it down, decorator to decorator.

The Mission Behind the Brands

Both "Bucket of Ink" and "Bucket of Inks" were created with the decorator in mind, but each caters to a specific specialty:

Bucket of Ink is the embroidery-focused branch of Buckets of Ink, dedicated to everything needle-and-thread.

Bucket of Inks is the screen printing side, supplying everything from plastisol to reclaim chemistry to get perfect prints every time.

As an Industry Decorator, I’m here to help shops—whether they’re startups or seasoned operations—get the most from their process, their tools, and their investment. Understanding which “bucket” to dip into is key.

Bucket of Ink – The Embroidery Side

Embroidery is all about dimension, detail, and texture. With Bucket of Ink, decorators can access a full arsenal of embroidery essentials tailored for high-quality stitching:

Supplies Include:

Madeira and Robison-Anton threads

Backing and stabilizers (cut-away, tear-away, no-show mesh)

Bobbins, needles, and pre-wound options

Adhesive sprays and hooping stations

Thread storage and organization tools

Recommended Equipment:

Multi-head and single-head machines from brands like Happy Japan Embroidery Machines.

HoopMaster systems

Mighty Hoops and adjustable hooping devices

Equipment Dealer Support:

Bucket of Ink connects decorators with trusted dealers for training, maintenance, and machine upgrades—making sure you’re not just sold to, but supported.

Pro Tip from the Industry Decorator:

Invest in magnetic hooping systems early. It reduces stress, increases efficiency, and keeps consistency tight for high-volume jobs.

Bucket of Inks – The Screen Printing Side

Screen printing is where volume meets creativity. Bucket of Inks offers a full lineup of materials and chemistry for shops that want bold, durable prints.

Supplies Include:

Plastisol inks, water-based inks, and specialty effects like puff or glow

Emulsions, degreasers, reclaim chemicals

Squeegees, scoop coaters, and mesh counts for every job

Test pellons, cleaning supplies, and press wipes

Tape, spatulas, blockout pens—everything you forget until you need it

Recommended Equipment:

Presses from CobraFlex Printers, Riley Hopkins, and ROQ

Flash dryers, tunnel dryers, exposure units

Washout booths and dip tanks

CTS (computer-to-screen) systems

Dealer and Support Network:

Bucket of Inks partners with leading screen printing equipment dealers and offers knowledge resources to help you scale—from manual setups to full automation.

Pro Tip from the Industry Decorator:

Always dial in your exposure times and screen tension. The most expensive ink won’t fix a poorly prepped screen.

Shared Values – Unified by Purpose

What I love about Buckets of Ink as a whole is that whether you’re threading needles or pulling squeegees, they’re committed to helping decorators thrive. Both arms of the company offer:

Industry education and tech support

Fast, decorator-focused customer service

Real-world-tested products, not gimmicks

A “by decorators, for decorators” mindset

That alignment matters—because decorators need partners who understand the grind, the craft, and the business.

The Hybrid Shop Advantage

Many modern shops now run both embroidery and screen printing—and if you’re one of them, Buckets of Ink has you covered on both fronts.

By understanding how Bucket of Ink (embroidery) and Bucket of Inks (screen printing) complement each other, you can streamline purchasing, unify vendor relationships, and educate your team across disciplines. That’s efficiency. That’s growth. That’s how you scale smart.

Final Thoughts from the Industry Decorator

At the end of the day, I’m not just here to sell ink or thread—I’m here to help decorators get the most out of their tools, their time, and their talent.

Whether you're hooping caps in the back room or loading shirts onto a press in the front, having the right supplier makes a difference. And that’s where Bucket of Ink and Bucket of Inks shine. They’re not just brands—they’re partners in the process.

So whichever path you're on—embroidery, screen printing, or both—know that there’s a bucket built for your business. And I’m here to help you pour success from it.

[industrydecorator]

Understanding Screen Printing vs. Direct-to-Film (DTF) for Custom Apparel Buyers

When it comes to custom apparel and promotional product decoration, choosing the right printing method can make all the difference in quality, cost, and turnaround time. Two of the most prominent techniques in the industry today are Screen Printing and Direct-to-Film (DTF). Each method brings unique strengths to the table and is best suited for different types of projects. Whether you’re outfitting a team, promoting your business, or building your apparel line, understanding when to use Screen Printing versus DTF can help you make smarter, more cost-effective decisions.

What is Screen Printing?

Screen printing is one of the oldest and most widely used methods in the custom garment industry. At its core, screen printing involves creating a stencil (or “screen”) for each color in a design. Ink is then pushed through the screen and applied directly to the garment.

Key Advantages of Screen Printing:

Durability: Screen printing inks are thick, vibrant, and long-lasting — perfect for workwear, uniforms, or frequently washed items.

Cost-Effective in Bulk: Because screens are reused, screen printing becomes more cost-efficient as order quantity increases.

Bold, Clean Prints: Great for designs that use one to three solid colors and require a crisp, professional finish.

Ideal Use Cases:

Large runs of t-shirts, hoodies, or bags with a one-color logo or graphic.

Corporate uniforms with a 1–2 color logo.

Event merchandise like race tees, school spirit shirts, or promo giveaways.

The setup involved in screen printing (burning screens, aligning colors, prepping ink) means it’s most effective when printing large quantities. The more you print, the lower the cost per unit.

What is Direct-to-Film (DTF) Printing?

DTF is a newer technology in the custom apparel world, but it’s quickly revolutionizing how we print complex and colorful designs. With a CobraFlex’s DTF Printer, your full-color artwork is printed onto their specialized Film using Dupont water-based inks, then coated with adhesive powder and heat-pressed directly onto the garment.

Key Advantages of DTF Printing:

No Color Limitations: Perfect for full-color designs, photo-realistic artwork, gradients, and detailed illustrations.

No Screens Needed: No setup costs for each color or design — ideal for short runs or one-offs.

Prints on Almost Anything: Works on cotton, polyester, blends, spandex, leather, and more.

Ideal Use Cases:

Full-color or photographic designs on apparel.

Low-quantity runs (1–100 pieces) or 100–500 pieces, depending on the size of the print, where the screen setup would be too costly.

Multicolor designs with intricate detail or gradients.

When Should You Choose Screen Printing?

Let’s say you’re a local business printing 300 shirts with a 1-color logo. Screen printing is the clear choice. You’ll benefit from lower costs due to screen reuse and bulk ink application. Not only is screen printing economical in high quantities, but it also offers unmatched vibrancy and durability when handled correctly.

Scenarios where Screen Printing wins:

Simple branding (text/logo only)

Orders of 300 units or more

Limited color palette (1–3 spot colors)

Designs that don’t change often (consistent reorders)

When is DTF a Better Fit?

Now, imagine you’re a clothing brand creating limited-edition designs with multiple colors, gradients, or photographic quality. Or you’re a business needing just 10 shirts for a last-minute promo. In these cases, DTF is your best friend. There are no screens, no color separation, and minimal setup.

Scenarios where DTF shines:

Full-color or complex designs (like mascots, artwork, photos)

Low-quantity runs (1–100 pieces) or 100–500 pieces, depending on the size of the print.

Variable printing (changing names or numbers on each garment)

Garments with odd placements or stretch fabrics (DTF adheres well)

DTF also enables on-demand customization, making it perfect for online stores, merch drops, or any situation where design variety is high but volume is low.

Cost Comparison: Screen Printing vs. DTF

Factor Screen Printing & DTF Setup Time High (screen prep required) Low (digital file only) Ideal Quantity Medium to Large (50+) Low to Medium (1–50) Color Limitations Limited (each color = extra setup) Unlimited colors, no setup per color. Detail Level Best for bold lines & solid colors. Excellent for fine detail & gradients. Cost per Unit is Lower with volume. Higher per unit, but flat setup costPrint Longevity durable, long-lasting. Great durability, slightly less than the screen in extreme wash cycles

What About Quality?

Both methods can deliver high-quality results, but their strengths vary.

Screen prints feel more “built-in” to the garment — great for a retail feel and rougher use.

DTF prints sit slightly on top of the fabric but are smooth, flexible, and resistant to cracking when done properly.

When printed by experts using premium inks and films, DTF can rival screen printing in both vibrancy and wearability, especially for designs that would otherwise be impossible or expensive to separate into screens.

Trusted Partner in Custom Printing?

Precision Graphics has been helping businesses, teams, and creatives bring their ideas to life since 1981. With decades of experience in screen printing and the latest technology in DTF, we help you choose the best method for your needs, budget, and vision.

Whether you’re printing 10 shirts or 10,000, we provide:

Expert guidance on print method selection

Artwork optimization for either DTF or screen

High-quality, durable finishes

Fast turnarounds with local care

Conclusion: Which Should You Choose?

If you’re planning a large order with simple colors, go with screen printing. It’ll save you money and deliver bold, long-lasting prints.

If your design is full-color, detailed, or you only need a few pieces, DTF offers maximum flexibility, instant color accuracy, and a soft-touch finish that’s perfect for modern apparel trends.

When you partner with Precision Graphics, you don’t have to guess. They help you choose the right method, execute your vision, and deliver apparel that looks and feels exactly how you imagined.

Let you print smarter.

[industrydecorator]

Custom Printing, Embroidery & Promotional Products Since 1981

Precision Graphics has proudly served Arizona and the Valley since 1981, providing high-quality custom printing, embroidery, and promotional product solutions to many clients. What began as a local print shop has evolved into a full-service branding partner dedicated to helping businesses, schools, non-profits, and individuals bring their visions to life through top-tier print and apparel solutions. 

Custom Printing

Whether you need custom t-shirts for an event, branded uniforms for your team, or personalized gear for your business, our custom printing services deliver high-quality results using state-of-the-art screen printing and heat transfer technology. Specializing in vibrant, durable prints that stand the test of time, ensuring your brand or message is seen and remembered. 

Custom Embroidery

Precision Graphics’s in-house embroidery department adds a professional, long-lasting touch to polos, hats, jackets, and more. Using commercial-grade equipment with a wide array of thread colors, ensuring precision in every stitch. 

Promotional Products

From pens and tote bags to tech gadgets and drinkware, Precision Graphics offers an extensive selection of promotional products that help brands stand out. Their team helps you select the perfect items for your audience and occasion, ensuring that your logo lasts and stands out.

Why Choose Precision Graphics?

Experience You Can Trust?

With over 40 years in the industry, they bring a wealth of knowledge and consistency to every project. Understanding the ins and outs of printing, embroidery, and promotional product logistics.

Local Roots, Personalized Service?

Precision Graphics is deeply connected to our community as a locally owned business. Their clients aren’t just customers — “they’re our neighbors, partners, and friends.” When you work with Precision Graphics, you get responsive, hands-on support from people who truly care about your success.

Fast Turnaround Times?

“We Perform Miracles” is the saying around Precision Graphics as their production process is built for speed without sacrificing quality. Knowing deadlines matter, they’re proud of their ability to deliver fast, accurate, and beautiful results on tight timelines.

Competitive Pricing?

Precision Graphics believes quality shouldn’t break the bank. Their pricing is designed to be fair and competitive, with no hidden fees. Work with all budget sizes and provide quotes that reflect true value.

In-House Production?

Unlike many companies that outsource, Precision Graphics handles most of our work in-house, giving complete control over quality, timing, and customization. That means fewer surprises, better communication, and faster results. When you work with Precision Graphics.