36 email: editor@signlink.co.uk Issue 263 - February | March 2026 tions and pre-treatment steps. As a result, garment printing has become a natural diversification path for sign-makers and commercial print providers looking to add higher-margin, repeatable revenue streams without radically changing their workflow.” Looking at the wider market and considering where the opportunities may lie for both those that are moving into the garment print sector for the first time and other companies that have already established a presence in this segment, Goleniowski notes a growing demand beyond traditional T-shirts. He explains that with DTF, both print and sign companies can confidently produce graphics for a wide range of fabrics and products, including tote bags, workwear, accessories, and even footwear. “This opens up new opportunities for printshops to support customers who want consistent branding across multiple garment types, without the complexity or limitations of older printing methods,” he adds. Leading on from this, Goleniowski addresses the all-important topic of investment in new machinery, offering guidance on what to look out for when splashing out on a new piece of kit for garment printing. He says a quality machine is defined by consistency, durability, and reliability just as much as by speed or print resolution, and those in the market for a new printer should keep this in mind. “From a production perspective, the most important factors are how well the system maintains colour accuracy, how durable the finished print is after repeated washing and wear, and how reliably the machine performs over time,” he explains. “In DTF printing, ink chemistry, white ink stability, and precise layering are critical, as these directly affect adhesion, stretch resistance, and long-term print quality. Just as important are automated maintenance features that reduce downtime and ensure repeatable results, particularly for businesses running high-volume or time-sensitive jobs.” So, what does Roland DG have on offer in terms of garment print solutions? Goleniowski has little hesitation in pointing to the TY-300 DTF printer, which he bills as the manufacturer’s most popular machine for garment and textile customisation. Key statistics for the printer include CMYK plus white printing at speeds of 10.9sq m/ hr – and up to 17.48sq m/gr when running in high-speed mode. The machine also comes supplied with Roland DG’s specialist software solutions including VersaWorks RIP and the Roland DG Connect App for remote monitoring. “The TY-300 delivers high-resolution output with excellent colour vibrancy and fine detail, whilst also offering production speeds that allow businesses to scale efficiently,” explains Goleniowski, adding: “It uses OEKO-TEX ECO PASSPORT certified inks and features advanced white ink circulation and automatic maintenance systems, which help ensure consistent output and reduce operator intervention. “When combined with approved shaker and heater units and our RIP and monitoring software, it forms a complete, production-ready DTF workflow that enables printers to deliver reliable, durable garment graphics across a wide range of applications.” From speaking with those at the forefront of garment print technology, it is clear that there is still room for further expansion within this market, with plenty of opportunities for both newcomers and those that have been active in the segment for some time. Trends may be on the change, with more customers now looking to short-run, customised apparel, and it is down to the sign company or wide-format printer to ensure they are well equipped with the right sort of machinery to deal with this evolving demand. GARMENT PRINTERS | ROB FLETCHER Technologies such as DTF have significantly lowered barriers to entry whilst expanding the range of applications printers can profitably produce ▲Roland DG bills the TY-300 DTF printer as its most popular machine for garment and textile customisation
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