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SPOTLIGHT


These suppliers participate in
our Partner Program.

Johnson Plastics
Sublimation, Engraving,
Sign Supplies
Epilog Laser
Laser Engraving
Systems
Universal Laser
Laser Engraving
Systems
Stahls' ID Direct
CAD-CUT Materials
Corel Corp.
Graphics Software
Geo. Knight
Heat Presses
Paramount Services
Sublimation Products
LaserSketch
Black Marble, PhotoPlas-Tic
John E. Lepper Inc.
Engravable Jewelry
Laser Reproductions
Sublimation Color Products
JBL Graphics
Spectra Transfer Products
Laserbits Inc.
Laserable Products
Pro Link Graphics
CorelDRAW Training
Conde Systems
Specialty Imprinting Experts
N&R International
Marble & Onyx Products
  TheMagicTouch USA
Transfer Paper

 

INFO REQUEST: Click here to open the INFO REQUEST form.   OPEN:  CorelDRAWPro Magazine.

NEWS Channels: DTG (Direct To Garment),  EMBroidery, ENGraving, GRAphics, HeatPrinting, LASer, PROMOtional, SANDblasting, SCReenprinting, SIGNmaking, SUBlimation, TRAnsfers

Release Date / Channels NEWS & PHOTOS
April 29
Heat Printing

Great Garment Graphics Seminars in England

        Great Garment Graphics based in Flat Rock, NC, a non-profit organization dedicated to the education of heat-applied graphics recently hosted a series of seminars in England. Presented by industry veteran Mel Meibers, the seminars were held during the Printwear & Promotion Show and the Sign & Digital UK show. Both events were held at the National Exhibition Center in Birmingham, England.
       Meiber’s presentation was entitled “How To Grow A Decorated Apparel Business With Heat Printing,” and included information on heat presses, garment graphics cutters, print and cut technology, and precut lettering and numbers.
         According to Robin Bull, managing director, Target Transfers, the official sponsors of Great Garment Graphics seminars at both shows, “Visitors were mostly new to the industry and found the content extremely helpful,” he said. “One visitor said to me ‘I have been searching everywhere to try and find somebody who could explain heat printing to me, and this seminar was the only source of genuine information I could find in the whole of the United Kingdom.’ He added, ‘Others told me that they revisited the seminar to make notes as they had found the presentation so helpful!’”
         Based on the popular response of this year’s sessions, Printwear & Promotion plans to expand the number of seminars at next year’s event. Meibers also has been asked to contribute a monthly column on heat printing in the publication of the same name.
         Great Garment Graphics is an organization devoted solely to the education of newcomers and established decorators on heat-applied graphics. It offers regularly scheduled free seminars, as well as videos, booklets, and interactive CDs. The site also has a significant amount of educational information about the various types of heat-applied processes and materials. It’s a great starting point for anyone interested in doing heat-applied printing of any kind.
INFO REQUEST

April 29
Transfers
Heat Printing

Stahls' Hotronix unveils new Twin Timer for heat presses

         Stahls’ Hotronix® of St. Clair Shores, MI, unveils the new Twin Timer™ feature, equipped on the popular Auto Open clamshell style heat press line.  The Twin Timer feature allows the user to program two independent time settings to count down for any two-step process without resetting their timer. The exclusive Twin Timer feature is ideal for two-color heat-applied graphic applications, pre-heating garments prior to imprinting, texturing, and more.  
        Proudly, Twin Timer is an added value at no extra cost.  “For generations my family has cared about creating products that advance the imprinting industry, that our employees are proud to produce and that help our customers to grow their businesses.  As a company, we try to add more value to our products while passing those savings on to customers to help keep your business strong and the teams looking good. The Hotronix® Twin Timer is a perfect example of how we continue to do that,” says Ted Stahl, owner and Chief Executive Officer of GroupeSTAHL.
INFO REQUEST

April 25
Embroidery

EmbSupplies.com offers Rinseaway Film

Rinseaway Film is a clear topping that is designed to keep stitches from sinking into high-pile fabrics to create a crisp, defined look. It is water soluble so excess topping can be pulled away and any remainder can be removed by rinsing with warm water or it will disappear in the first wash. It’s ideal for use with towels, fleece, short fur, corduroy, velvet, jersey, and knits. Rinseaway comes in 20-inch rolls in quantities of 10 yards, 50 yards, and 110 yards. It also is available in 8-inch by 8-inch sheets in packages of 500 pieces. EmbSupplies.com of Tampa, FL, offers a full line of embroidery supplies including thread, stabilizers, needles, hoops, scissors, and accessories. INFO REQUEST

April 23
Screen Printing

US Screen launches First
TV Show for Decorators

          With the launch of T-TV, Scott Fresener, president, U.S Screen Print & Inkjet Technology, is now offering the first and only talk show for apparel garment decorators. “It’s an idea whose time has come,” says Fresener, adding that they initially put together a similar project 15 years ago that was to have been available on VHS. “We’ve been producing videos for years. With the advent of YouTube and the ease of putting videos online, we decided it was time to resurrect the idea of a show for and about apparel decorators.”
         The focus of the show, which can be seen by visiting www.screenprinters.net, is to offer information, advice, and insights from industry veterans, manufacturers, and experts to keep decorators up to date on trends, new techniques, business strategies, trouble-shooting, and other timely topics that can help better a business. Shows also will include shop tours, trade show news, and maybe even demonstrations. You can always expect surprises from U.S. Screen.
         Scott Fresener will be the host of the show, which is expected to air two new episodes a week. The first show, which debuted April 17, 2008, featured an in-depth discussion with Terry Combs, who works at U.S. Screen as the director of the company training center as well as teaching the popular Garment Printing Workshop and Fast T-Jet Training classes. In his spare time, he also functions as a salesperson and writes articles for the U.S. Screen Web site.
        Combs first met Scott Fresener at the Atlantic City ISS show in 1979, where he purchased Scott’s book How To Print T-Shirts For Fun and Profit. From starting up a garage screen printing operation to working at some of the top shops in the country and consulting, Combs has seen the industry as it has evolved into what it is today. He also has been a regular contributor to Impressions, Screen Printing Magazine, and Printwear, as well as a speaker at industry trade events.
Check the Web site often to see new shows as they appear each week. INFO REQUEST

April 23
Screen Printing

How To Print T-Shirts Book Updated in new 2008 Edition

           One of the most well-known and popular getting-started books in the decorated apparel industry, How To Print T-Shirts for Fun and Profit has been updated and revised by original authors Scott and Pat Fresener. This 2008 edition includes a new chapter on inkjet-to-garment printing; a revised artwork and computer graphics chapter with more information on Adobe Photoshop; and a revised buyer's guide. In addition, the entire book has been updated chapter by chapter with new information, photos, and lots more.
        
Originally released in 1978, the book covers everything from A to Z about screen printing T-shirts, heat transfers, nylon jackets, baseball caps, and other imprintable items. It is written in an easy-to-follow, step-by-step format. This book is responsible for getting countless thousands of newcomers started in the profitable decorated apparel business and has often been referred to as the “bible” of the industry.
        
Scott and Pat Fresener have been involved in the decorated apparel industry since 1970 and U.S. Screen Printing Institute has been offering educational classes on how to create artwork and screen print since 1979. The company was one of the pioneers in developing a commercially viable inkjet-to-garment digital printer and now also offers classes in this new technology. INFO REQUEST

April 23
Embroidery

Hirsch offers
new Embroidery
Trace Laser Light

With the Embroidery Trace Laser Light, offered by Hirsch International of Hauppauge, NY, embroiderers can eliminate the problem of a needle or presser foot hitting the hoop frame and causing damage. This versatile laser light will clearly show where the needle hole is while running the trace function on the machine. The size of the laser spot can be increased to include the presser foot as well. It makes it faster, easier, and practically risk free when setting up any item for sewing.
         The Embroidery Trace Laser is a compact system that consists of a control unit and a spot laser. However, depending on individual needs, the control unit can operate line and crosshair laser lights as well. An industrial strength magnet is used to securely attach the laser light to the bridge, arm, or side of the embroidery machine. The portable magnet makes it easy to move the laser light as needed to another machine without the hassle of cords, wires, or outlets.
          The laser light is powered by two AAA batteries that have an estimated life of 35 to 40 hours. The light is easily turned on and off to conserve its power during regular use. Rechargeable batteries also can be used. The Embroidery Trace Laser Light can be used on any model or brand of embroidery machine.
INFO REQUEST

April 22
DTG

Hirsch offers Kornit 932NDS Direct to Garment Printer

Where else can you get one-click four-color process printed designs on dark shirts but with the Kornit 932NDS, offered by Hirsch Intl. of Hauppauge, NY? This industrial direct-on-garment digital printer is designed to print light and dark shirts with no set-up time, no screens, and no cleanup. The Kornit 932NDS offers innovative tools for white layer and SuperWhite™ separations. It allows for one-person mass production of a single design or as many designs are you wish. It uses Spectra piezo electric print heads and has a printing area of 14 by 18 inches. It can print on cotton, cotton/polyester blends, Lycra, Viscose, silk, and more. Shirts-per-hour production for an A4 image size are up to 70 pieces for lights and up to 25 pieces for darks. It uses the Windows XP operating system and can printing up to 730 dpi. INFO REQUEST

April 22
Embroidery

Floriani Commercial offers Borders & Frames Program

Walter Floriani, a fifth-generation embroidery digitizer and well-known speaker and educator in the embroidery industry, has just released a new program called Borders & Frames III as part of his seven-part Floriani Embroidery Software series, offered by Floriani Commercial of Knoxville, TN.
         
Borders & Frames III offers an easy way to create a decorative border or frame for apparel, banners, wall hangings, flags, and more. There are more than 850 combined shapes, symbols, graphics, and motifs to add excitement to any embroidery project. You also can import a design element of your own. The program comes with 25 preprogrammed shapes to select from or draw a shape with the run stitch tool. There also are 40 program type stitches, 225 icons or motif options, and 530 unique images.
         The Save2Sew wizard-based tools help you make the right choices for each project. You can kern individual elements for creative effects. Adjust density and pull compensation for different fabrics. The automatic stitch count function updates as you resize. You also can easily batch convert multiple file formats with a few simple clicks. Included are more than 40 easy-to-use style sheets that ensure you get it right the first time.
         Borders & Frames III is offered in all the most popular commercial embroidery machine formats. It can be purchased individually or as part of the full seven-piece set of Embroidery Suite programs.
INFO REQUEST

April 16
Embroidery

Dalco offers
Custom Appliques

If you’re looking to offer your team, spiritwear, or even corporate customer something completely different, Dalco Athletic of Dallas, TX, has the resources, expertise, and equipment to help you design a custom appliqué that exactly fits the requirements of your customer.
           It offers a wide range of the most popular appliqué fabrics including solids, designer patterns, and specialty materials such as pebble grain, glacier twill, and DalSuede™. With its state-of-the-art water-jet cutting or laser equipment, it can cut any font, shape, or mascot from your provided artwork in any quantity. Designs can be single or multiple layers of color and pre-cut pieces can be kiss-cut together as a single unit ready to be sewn. There is no need to press the colors together, it’s been done for you.
          If needed, the company can add digitizing to complete your custom appliqué. All custom appliqué designs can come with their own pre-digitized sew disk that will automatically sewn down the appliqué. Dalco’s full-color catalog is full of examples of fonts, mascots, and shapes that you can choose from to create your own combination or the experienced sales staff can help guide you in creating own unique, eye-catching design.
         
Dalco Athletic offers a full line of official’s uniforms and accessories as well as die-cut,  CAD-cut, water-jet cut, and kiss-cut letters, numbers, shapes, and mascots in a range of materials for creating team and spirit wear.  INFO REQUEST

April 17
Engraving

Euro Trophex Set for
Oct. 11-13 in Holland

        Diversify your business at Euro Trophex 2008. The show will take place from 11th to 13th October 2008 at the MECC Exhibition Centre in Maastricht, the Netherlands. There will be over 100 companies represented from all over the world; they will all be showcasing their latest products and services - so it's definitely a show not to be missed!
        The show has an international flavour; attracting buyers from 60 different countries from around the world. It's a chance to see the latest products and services available and keep up-to-date with current trends in this ever-changing environment.   Visitors can pick up new worldwide catalogues from the exhibitors which will be available exclusively to Euro Trophex visitors.
        All aspects of the trophy and engraving industry are represented, together with associated companies who will be exhibiting embroidery, sublimation and sign-making equipment. Many established companies will be taking part as well as a number of new ones.
INFO REQUEST

April 16
Laser

Epilog Launches
the Zing Laser

         Epilog Laser of Golden, CO, the leading producer of flying-optics based CO2 and fiber laser systems, recently launched the Zing Laser, the newest addition to the company’s product line.  Competitively priced, the Zing Laser boasts 25 watts of power, an all-metal, air-cooled laser tube, and several standard features such as Air Assist and a motorized engraving table.
            “A machine of this caliber and at this price point has not been seen on the market before,” said Mike Dean, director of sales and marketing for Epilog. “We have successfully designed and built a high-quality, entry-level machine with capabilities that were previously unheard of.”
       
As with Epilog’s entire product line, top-notch performance and quality results are of the highest importance. The Zing Laser allows for 1000 DPI engraving; the full power of a 25-watt laser tube; and features an all-new custom Laser Dashboard™ that allows users to print directly from many of the Windows® based software programs they already use.
       “The laser tube is paramount,” Dean said. “Other low-cost systems use disposable, water-cooled, glass laser tubes. The new Zing Laser uses an air-cooled metal Waveguide laser tube with power guaranteed at 25 watts or more.”
       “Additionally, the Zing’s high-speed engraving results in detailed photographs and crisp grayscale images that just cannot be produced by other low-cost machines,” Dean said.
        Other features include:Teflon coated Infinion™ Bearings, High-speed micro stepper motors, Feature-packed touch keypad.   “We designed the Zing Laser with the power and features to provide real profits for our customers’ businesses,” Dean said. “This laser will truly perform.”   
Contact Epilog at 888-437-4564 or 303-277-1188 or visit www.epiloglaser.com INFO REQUEST

April 15
Laser

LaserSketch Adds
High-End Black or Green Marble Plaques

         LaserSketch.com of Lemont, IL, has added LaserGrade high-end black and green award plaques. They are 7/8" thick with 1-inch beveled edges, and polished on all surfaces. Designed with versatility in mind, they may be displayed vertically or horizontally. Eight different sizes are available, and all can be seen at www.lasersketch.com or call 630-243-6360. INFO REQUEST
April 15
Laser

GCC LaserPro launches
 three new models

          GCC LaserPro, with headquarters in Taiwan and U.S. office in Walnut, CA, has introduced the C180, S290, and the upgraded Spirit GX. The C180 is a new desktop laser engraver that measures 28.3” x 25.2” x 14.8” and offers a work area of 18” x 12”. It runs on a servo motor, is air-cooled, and features a 12 to 40-wattt power range. The Spirit GX is the new bigger and faster version of the company’s award-winning Spirit model. The work area is 38” x 24” and is extendable with open doors, and the power ranges from 30 to 100 watts. The maximum speed is 60 ips. The S290 uses a DPSS laser marking (Nd:YV04) system to mark on metallic surfaces. It features a spacious 29” x 18” work area and is servo controlled for precise and rapid movement. INFO REQUEST

April 14
DTG,
Embroidery

Brother Announces 2008 Schedule for Garment Decorating Road Shows

          Brother’s Industrial Products Division, based in Bridgewater, NJ, a global leader in the industrial sewing market, announced the kick-off of their 2008 garment decorating road show seminars. Featuring 3 new and informative seminars with more tools and practical strategies than ever, these nationwide educational seminars will address many topics related to the garment decorating industry. Attendees will also be able to see a demonstration of the new PDQ program, a garment design program that will be available only to GT-541 owners. 
        
Brother begins the third tour of their highly popular Garment Decorating Roadshow Seminars on April 22 in Salt Lake City, Utah. Attendees can get tips on how to start and run a successful garment decorating business, expand their business model, increase their customer base, diversify their garment decorating services, and create new and dynamic design offerings. Brother will demonstrate the advantages and features of their embroidery and inkjet printing machines, machine operation (hands on interaction: attendees can bring their own designs and watch them print!), how to build a business around “on demand” printing, and how to put new sales power in your business.
     
For complete details and updates of roadshow dates and locations, visit www.brother.com, click ‘USA’ on the map, click ‘Industrial Sewing & Embroidery’ on the left navigation, click ‘Show Schedules’, and click ‘Road Show Schedule’ tab. INFO REQUEST

April 14
Screen Print

Workhorse offers
CapMax Flash Cure Unit

The CapMax flash cure unit from Workhorse Products of Phoenix, AZ, has a curved element design that provides even and thorough flash curing on all types of caps. It comes as a free-standing floor model or a bench-top slide model. The floor model complements the company’s CapMax four-color/four-station printer as well as manual presses outfitted with CapMax cap attachments. The CapMax bench model has a sliding element that is designed for CapMax bench model printers. This flash has a high wattage element and the free-standing unit has locking casters. Both models are height adjustable and have a large heating panel measuring 5 by 9 inches. They come in 115v or 230 v configurations. INFO REQUEST

April 11
Direct Print

US Screen offers
Golf Ball printing kits

         Expand the capabilities of your Fast T-Jet Printer with the Golf Ball Printing Kit. With this versatile kit, you will be able to take the same logo you are printing on a golf shirt and also put it on a golf ball. It’s the perfect add-on sale. Or consider doing a set of golf balls with a family photo on each one. The possibilities are endless.
         The kit includes a golf ball holder with plastic cover, a 16-ounce bottle of non-textile pretreatment, a 12-ounce can of non-textile post-treatment spray, an instruction manual, and a handy CD/DVD with templates and video instructions. You can use the same heat press to dry the golf balls as you are using to cure your shirts.
        The 12-Ball Golf kit fits into the adjustable bed of the T-Jet 2 and T-Jet 3 printers. A 50-ball kit is available for the T-Jet 3 and the Blazer Pro. A 60-ball holder is in development for the T-Jet 3, T-Jet Blazer Pro, T-Jet Blazer Express, and T-Jet Jumbo 2. Check the Web site for more information. The Web site also offers step-by-step photos of how the balls are printed as well as other educational information.
INFO REQUEST

April 11
Screen Print

Vastex offers
handy Squeegee Rest

Improve your productivity and lessen physical fatigue when using a manual printer with the new squeegee rest attachment from Vastex of Allentown, PA. This versatile tool will attach to any type of screen with square sides made out of wood, aluminum, or steel. A version for screens with round sides (such as is used for some retensionable screen brands) is in the works. It works best on rear clamp presses where the sides of the screen are completely exposed.
         The squeegee rest requires no tools to attach or holes to drill. It is composed of set of clamps that are attached to either side of the screen that allows a tube or rod—supplied by the end user—to be added, which spans across the screen. The clamps can be slid to a position just past the image to reduce motion and keep ink limited to the used part of the screen.
        
If you have a small pocket image, position the squeegee rest just below the design and you can print and rest the squeegee conveniently close by to resume printing faster. It is universal to any rear clamp press. INFO REQUEST

April 11
Graphics

Ballstars Adds New
Photo Templates
Graphics Program

Ballstars of New Century, KS, the exclusive manufacturer of a photo ball transfer system that allows an image to be heat sealed to a sports ball, is now offering a new graphics program to aid customers in coming up with exciting graphics to use with their system.

Photo Templates Volume 1 allows the user to combine an attractive template design with a photo. It includes 108 interactive templates that have vector text, design elements, and a photo drop-in. There are 12 basic shape templates that combine text with photo drop-in shapes such as circles, ovals, rectangles, and squares. The Interchangeable Sports Icons include 36 EPS sports images that can be used independently or combined as part of a photo template. The Smart Fonts collection has 139 True Type fonts. Other graphics categories include automotive, events, milestones, occupations, and pets.

For ease of use and to promote sales, all the full-color templates are beautifully packaged in a professional three-ring binder so customers can browse at their leisure and pick the template they want. Images can be output in one or more colors using the built-in spot color separations tool. Photos can be swapped in the template directly from a scanner, digital camera or saved digital image. Once an image is “power clipped” into a template, the user has full control of the size and placement of the photo in the template.
INFO REQUEST

April 11
Heat Printing

Dalco Athletic Has
Pre-Spaced Mascot
Combo Designs

With Dalco Athletic’s (Dallas, TX) wide range of pre-cut and pre-positioned heat-applied designs, you can make more money in less time. With its versatile cad-cut Mascot Combo, you choose a school or team name and pair it with a mascot, sports ball, or other icon such as a dancer, swimmer, winged foot for track, or banner with a year inside to create all kinds of great-looking team or spiritwear apparel.
         This combo is available in two of Dalco’s most popular materials Permacad or Dal-Plus in the most popular athletic colors. Font choices for lettering include Plain Block, Antique Block, Full Block, Script, Crazy, United, and Brody. Balls include volleyball, football, baseball, basketball, and soccer. Cheer megaphones, lacrosse sticks, and hockey sticks also are available. These pre-spaced designs are perfect for T-shirts, sweat shirts, jackets, and more.
        
Dalco Athletic offers a full line of official’s uniforms and accessories as well as die-cut,  CAD-cut, water-jet cut, and kiss-cut letters, numbers, shapes, and mascots in a range of materials for creating team and spirit wear. INFO REQUEST

April 10
Embroidery

EmbSupplies.com
offers Hoopmaster

The Hoopmaster Tubular Hooping Kit, distributed by EmbSupplies.com of Tampa, FL, is designed to increase productivity by holding backing firmly in place while using number and letter grids to document and consistently place logos.
              It consists of a HoopMaster station, a fixture in a 12 cm, 15 cm, or 18 cm size, a portable mounting base, freestyle arm, pocket guide, T-square, and demo tape. The flexible support arms hold the hoop securely in place. The pocket alignment guide makes pockets and patterned shirts easier to accurately hoop. The freestyle arm helps with hooping sleeves, cap backs, cuffs, collars, jackets, aprons, towels, bags, and youth garments. The HoopMaster is available for Allied, Happy and Tajima hoops.

            EmbSupplies.com offers a full line of embroidery supplies including thread, stabilizers, needles, hoops, scissors, and accessories.
INFO REQUEST

April 10
Sublimation, Transfers

Conde introduces Wrought
 Iron Products for Tiles

          Condé™ Systems, Inc.of Mobile, AL, has added a line of wrought iron products to its DyeTrans™ family of tile accessories. Each of the matte black wrought iron products - including frames, house number hangers, baskets, coaster holders, trivets, towel holders, and garden stakes - showcases one or more personalized ceramic or hardboard tiles.   
          Digital decorators can produce custom home accents, wedding gifts, anniversary gifts, and more - all with the distinctive look of wrought iron and the lasting beauty and charm of tile. Condé strives to offer the largest variety of imprintable tiles and tile products for the custom decorating industry.
        The new additions join an existing line-up of wood tile products that includes keepsake boxes, frames, planter boxes, bookends, letter boxes, coaster holders, lazy susans, serving trays, napkin holders, note holders, and pencil holders. Visit www.conde.com for additional information and pricing. Or call 800-826-6332. INFO REQUEST
April 10
Embroidery

SWF Improves Technology
 for Dual-Function 2-Head Embroidery

Ever wish you could do two things at once? With SWF’s (Tampa, FL) Dual-Function Two-Head Embroidery Machine you can. The Dual-Function model, SWF/HC-UH1502D-45 allows you to use both heads for larger orders or simultaneously operate each head to run different orders. It was recently improved to incorporate all the newer features of the SWF E-series.
          Just a few of the many new features include an expanded memory that holds up to 100 designs, USB and memory stick compatible, mirror image conversion and design direction, design enlargement and reduction, automatic needle bar selection, automatic offset, manual offset, frame reversal, and individual head operation. The upper thread holder has a geared motor that enables simultaneous operation of all heads to ensure accurate timing. The upper thread-holding unit prevents unthreading in the heads when stopped, which increases productivity.
          With the aid of the single-touch control panel, you can tailor the machine to the orders you have on hand which reduces downtime, increases productivity, and improves your ability to meet deadlines. 
        
The Dual-Function Series also comes in four, six-, eight-, and 12-head models. All SWF machines come with a five-year warranty, two-years on parts and labor plus "parts- only" coverage of all shafts, pulleys, bearings, bushings, and gears for a period of five years from the date of installation. INFO REQUEST

April 10
Promo

ASI launches Fall Holiday
 Expo in Las Vegas

          Advertising Specialty Institute® of Trevose, PA, the largest media and marketing organization in the promotional products industry, announced the fall 2009 launch of the ASI Holiday Expo, the industry’s first and only national show focused on products for the important fall and holiday selling seasons.
        The ASI Holiday Expo will be limited to no more than 400 booths, and suppliers invited to exhibit will be required to have four or more stars in the ASI Supplier Rating System or be nominated by distributors. 
         This is the first time in the history of the industry that a national show's exhibitor list has been limited based on ratings by distributors.
        “As we celebrate the 10th year of the ASI Show in Las Vegas, we decided it was time to reflect on ways we could continue to provide an event that maximizes the return on investment suppliers and distributors expect,” said Timothy M. Andrews, president and chief executive of ASI and president of ASI Show.  “We’ve been conducting research for nearly two years, and two things stand out:  Suppliers now launch products year-round, not just once a year, and, second, distributors welcome the idea of an event that allows them to load up on fresh ideas and new products as they enter the vital fourth quarter – the largest quarter of the year in sales.”
        Exhibits, education and hotel rooms for the Holiday Expo will be in a single facility, fostering a sense of community, networking, learning and selling.
        In addition to the exhibits, the ASI Holiday Expo will feature dozens of educational courses around three themes:
        Wearables University will explain decorating methods, new trends in clothing styles and colors for the fall and spring seasons, and introduce new selling strategies for every type of wearables product.
        Stitches University attendees will learn the latest trends and techniques in embroidery, with business management courses for new and prospective embroidery professionals.
        ASI Executive Gift Conference will focus on creating and executing corporate gift programs, evaluating fulfillment opportunities and will introduce holiday selling strategies.
      “For the ASI Holiday Expo, which will replace the former ASI Show in Las Vegas, we’re also discussing a number of shows and seminars that might co-locate with us in Las Vegas,” Andrews said.  “We’re evaluating those now and expect to make final decisions shortly.”
       Dates at two venues are currently being negotiated and final dates for the Holiday Expo will be announced in the next several weeks. INFO REQUEST
April 10
Embroidery

American Embroidery Supply offers Magna-Glide Bobbins

A new type of bobbin with a magnetic core eliminates the need to re-set tensions as your bobbin thread runs out. New Magna-Glide bobbins, offered by American Embroidery Supply of Dallas, GA,  have a magnetic core, which combined with advanced EB cross-link technology optimizes thread delivery to create consistent tension from beginning to end of each bobbin. The magnetic core also prevents backlash or overspin eliminating the need for anti-backlash springs. In fact, anti-backlash springs should be removed before using Magna-Glide bobbins. You get more stitches per bobbin, which increases productivity.
         
The advanced EB cross-link technology also reduces lint and residual buildup in the bobbin case and tension spring resulting in long-time, trouble-free usage. Only the finest-quality, high-tenacity polyester yarns are used. Bobbins come in L style in white, LB style in black, and M style in white. There are 100 bobbins per box and 24 boxes per case. INFO REQUEST

April 10
Embroidery

Cotswold Introduces New press 'n Tear Hoopless Adhesive Stabilizer

With Press ‘N’ Tear, a new stabilizer offered by Cotswold Industries of New York, NY, you can eliminate the use of harmful adhesive sprays and other adhesive-type papers that can gum up needles and cause a variety of problems.
         Press ‘N’ Tear, 3015PT, is specifically designed to hold hard-to-hoop items securely in place so your embroidery will come out sharp, crisp, and in perfect registration. It is a 1.5-ounce, high-fiber tearaway that uses a unique adhesive that provides a strong bond without damaging the fabric or the embroidery machine.
        A big difference between Press ‘N’ Tear and similar products is it is not simply a paper. As a true stabilizer, its fibers hold embroidery stitches in place. It’s ideal for a wide range of items that are hard to hoop such as baby socks, ties, napkin edges, collars, cuffs, towels, etc. It’s also ideal for delicate fabrics such as velvet that are prone to hoop burn.
      
It comes in rolls of 100 yards in two widths: 20 inches and 40 inches. It also comes in convenient 8-inch by 8-inch precut sheets. There are 100 sheets per package. INFO REQUEST

April 9
Transfers

Transfer Express Has New Multicolored Glitter Custom Transfers

Transfer Express of Mentor, OH, has expanded its popular line of custom glitter transfers with three new colors! In additional to silver and gold, you now can get kelly, red, and blue.  Use these great new glitter colors to brighten up a wide range of apparel for cheerleaders, dance teams, and spiritwear. These dazzling transfers can be applied to any apparel color, and you can mix and match all the glitter colors in any combination. For the most dramatic effects, try glitter transfers on darks!
        
Glitter transfers are best used for artwork that does not have fine detail. They’re great for girls’ sports teams such as volleyball or soccer, fashion wear, outdoor events, and all kinds of summer camps. Glitter transfers heat apply in only 15 seconds and last the life of the garment. Orders placed for Glitter transfers before 3 p.m. E.S.T. are shipped in one day.
        Transfer Express makes it as easy as possible to order custom screen-printed transfers with its free online design service called Easy View™. No art experience is needed! You can instantly put together a complete design by choosing from a wide range of template layouts, clip arts and typestyles to make it your own. The step-by-step program prompts the user through the process until the design is complete and you are able to see what your design will look like before you order. 
        
Transfer Express Inc. is a progressive company that manufactures custom, heat-applied garment transfers known as Easy Prints®. As the largest manufacturer of custom transfers in the world, Transfer Express provides a competitive edge to dealers of imprinted sportswear by producing imprinted garment graphics quickly and with great accuracy.  INFO REQUEST

April 8
Apparel

US Screen hosts new "Green" Discussion Forum

        For screen printers, embroiderers, inkjet-to-garment decorators, and others who are interested in doing all they can to help the environment, a new “Green” discussion forum has been set up on the Web site of the U.S. Screen & Inkjet Technology (www.ScreenPrinters.Net). You can read any posts there by simply visiting, but if you want to post, you’ll need to register. Registration is free.
        Early discussions posted include the effectiveness of specific green products, how environmentally friendly water-based inks and emulsions really are, and how to dispose of used solvents. The forums, which have been a part of the U.S. Screen Web site since 1994, are a wonderful resource for beginners and veterans alike to trade information, advice, tips, and tricks about all aspects of garment decoration.
       In addition to visiting the Green forum, you also can sign up to receive posts via e-mail in a daily digest. You can receive all posts in all forums or posts from only select forums. If you go to the board’s home page, you’ll see a link to click on to sign up on the digest management page.
INFO REQUEST

April 8
Heat Printing

Imprintables Warehouse Adds new Spectra Patterns for Heat Printing

Imprintables Warehouse of Masontown, PA, has just further extended the boundaries of creativity with its new Spectra™ Patterns garment graphics cutter materials. Go beyond boring monochromatic cutter colors and choose from 21 stock patterns that include camouflage, plaid, leopard, tie dye, bamboo, Hawaiian, zebra, polka dot, and more.
          These exciting new materials can be heat applied to any color garment made of 100% cotton, 100% polyester, or a cotton/poly blend. Spectra Patterns come on 15-inch rolls in quantities of 5 yards, 10 yards, 25 yards, or 50 yards.
         If you can’t find a pattern to suit, make your own. With only two weeks notice, Imprintables Warehouse will custom create any pattern from your artwork to your specifications. You can match colors, graphics, and logos from corporations, schools, teams, and groups. Be on the lookout for more stock patterns that are in the works to be added soon.
       
Imprintables Warehouse is a full-service distributor of equipment and supplies to create a wide range of heat-applied graphics including digital inkjet and laser transfers, digital cutters, digital cutting software, heat-applied materials, and heat presses. INFO REQUEST

April 8
Graphics

GroupeSTAHL offers free online art creation software--CadWorxLive

Create the artwork you need for your garment graphics cutter FREE at CadWorxLive.com, a new online graphics design service offered to all qualified GroupeSTAHL Sales Alliance customers.
         This revolutionary new software, which eliminates the need for a decorator to purchase an expensive graphics program, takes all the work and worry out of creating and cutting garment graphics. It was designed from the ground up specifically for the decorated apparel industry, and it offers many tools for cutting never before available in any other program.
         Cadworx™ automatically designs professional templates, text effects, auto trace, athletic tails, arched text, step and repeat and pre-set sizing. The program also imports files from nearly all Windows-based graphics programs. Templates, clip art, and fonts will be added on a regular basis.
        CadworxLive.com is available from any computer in the world, as long as you have Internet access. There’s no software to buy, no upgrades to worry about, and no steep learning curves. In fact, anyone can start creating art for their garment graphics cutter with CadworxLive.com in a matter of minutes. Discover how easy it is to create complicated effects that would take years to learn and hours to perfect with other software. Visit www.cadworxlive.com today, log on, and find out how easy it is to qualify.
      GroupeSTAHL based in St. Clair Shores, MI, known as the Identity for Textiles Company, is a confederation of more than 17 companies around the world dedicated to manufacturing and distributing heat printing products and digital decoration technologies. For more information, visit www.groupestahl.com.
INFO REQUEST

April 8
Transfers,
DTG

SAwgrass offers
extended ink cartridges & New Color Profile
for Epson 4880

         Sawgrass Technologies of Charleston, SC, a world leader in the development of on-demand digital imaging technologies, announced today that it has released new options for several systems geared for the production series Epson 4880, including SubliJet, ArTainium, ChromaBlast and its Hybrid solution. 
       
Extended cartridges are now available for each of these recently-released systems that allow for a lower cost per print.  
       Sawgrass is also offering a new PowerDriver color profile for its SubliJet users that greatly enhances color output in addition to the “classic” color profile provided for exact color matching for legacy printers.   
      
“These enhancements are another indication of Sawgrass’ commitment to continually bring the most advanced solutions to our customers,” said Randy Hughes, Sales Director for Sawgrass Technologies.  “We are excited to offer them a means to print the most vibrant image with sharp details at the lowest cost.”  All systems for the Epson 4880 are now available for purchase through a network of authorized distributors. INFO REQUEST

April 8
Promo

Promotional Products sales reach $19.6 billion

        The Advertising Specialty Institute® (ASI) of Trevose, PA, the largest media and marketing organization serving the advertising specialty industry, announced today results of its annual advertising specialties sales analysis indicating that industry revenues reached $19.6 billion in 2007 – up 5.4 percent from 2006 and a new record.
         Spending on advertising specialties, or promotional products - items and incentives branded with a company logo or marketing message - was 83% greater than radio advertising, 73% greater than Internet display ads and nearly five times larger than outdoor advertising* for the same period.  Industry increases also outpaced the 2.2% growth rate for the United States GDP.
       “This is the highest industry sales we have recorded and shows continued growth of promotional products over the last five years,” said Timothy M. Andrews, president and chief executive officer of ASI.  “The growth reflects continued use of advertising specialties by marketers who want to deliver their brand in a powerful, memorable and cost-effective way.” 
       “In today’s climate of increasing economic uncertainty, purchasing decisions for advertising and marketing are being scrutinized closely,” said Andrews.  “Advertising specialties are a relatively safe advertising investment and are nearly recession-proof, because they provide a proven high return-on-investment at a low cost and have a lasting impact on target audiences.”
        Andrews also commented that the traditional advertising specialty industry is expanding in part by embracing more companies - including those that decorate, embroider and engrave promotional items and business gifts. 
       Many of these distributors and suppliers have now qualified to become part of the ASI network, allowing them to access some of the $1.3 million in educational opportunities ASI provides each year.  These opportunities make them more knowledgeable and give them the chance to attend five ASI Shows and any of the 70 Advantages Roadshows in 18 North American cities.
      ASI distributors offered their thoughts about marketplace growth in 2007.
      “Especially in times of economic distress, businesses and institutions turn to incentive marketing,” said Jo-an Lantz, executive vice president of Geiger (asi/196480).  “The pressure is on to spend wisely.  Marketers are held accountable for their ad spend, and promotional products lend themselves to targeted marketing and measurable investment versus other media.”
      “Because of the downturn in the economy, I feel the clients we work with are looking for a more effective marketing method,” said Angela Davis, president of Award Solutions Inc. (asi/128042).  “They are looking for more control over their marketing dollar.  Promotional products give them this and we have seen an increase in sales because of it.” 
      “There is no question that economic activity has been down with some clients and in some industries and geographic areas for the past year or so,” said David Woods, president and CEO of Adventures in Advertising (asi/109480).  “Recently we have seen a number of clients significantly increase their purchases, and there seems to be a lot of activity with new web stores.  We have also had the best first quarter in several years for recruiting new people into the AIA system.  We are thus cautiously optimistic that this will be a very good year for AIA, quite possibly our best year ever!”
       “As budgets tighten, we expect more advertising to move from media to promotional products,” said David Lewenberg, vice president for Genumark Promotional Merchandise Inc. (asi/204588).  “And, therefore, continue to expect an increase in 2008, despite downward economic expectations overall.”
       ASI suppliers found 2007 to be a record-breaking year.
       “We have experienced tremendous growth and we expected to see some slow-down due to the economy, but so far that has not affected our business,” said Lon McGowan, president of iClick, Inc. (asi/62124).  “Our total sales have doubled in the last 12 months.  iClick is in a unique market position, though, because we supply the fastest-growing product category in the industry - USB drives.  The key to surviving a recession is to offer products that deliver targeted marketing messages and at a price that won’t break the bank.”
         “Promotional products offer an opportunity to creatively advertise a company or product,” said Carol Constantino, president of Noteworthy Company (asi/74360).  “Since the life span of a promotional product extends beyond a conventional ad, savvy marketers recognize value and ultimately extend their advertising dollars to reinforce an ad campaign with the diverse product lines that our industry offers.” 
INFO REQUEST
April 8
Embroidery

Tajima DG/ML by Pulse
offers Sequin Feature

If you want to  add sequins to your embroidery business, Tajima DG/ML by Pulse’s sequin option is a must-have tool. Only Tajima offers a full suite of sequin tools to help you create dazzling designs with speed and ease. There is no more tedious digitizing of sequins manually. Simply draw or import artwork and convert it to sequin. The Sequin tool allows you to digitize for sequins as easily as you would a running stitch.
         Choose from more than 12 sequin styles to create dazzling designs. A variety of settings determine the size of the sequin, the style of tackdown, and the overlap between adjacent settings. Commands to activate the sequin attachment and jump commands are automatically added. This is offered by Hirsch Int'l. of Hauppauge, NY.
INFO REQUEST

April 8
Embroidery

New Hook Wash Lubricant Cleaner from Hirsch

Keep your embroidery machines working at peak performance with new Hook Wash, #111073 from Hirsch Int'l. of Hauppauge, NY. It is a field-tested lubricant/light solvent spray that is specially designed for the cleaning of embroidery machines. Hook Wash is safe for use on plastic, electronics, and bushings. It comes with a handy straw nozzle to help flush away lint, dust, and debris from the hook area onto an absorbent cloth. For harder to remove debris, simply spray lightly and allow to stand for several seconds. Flush again with Hook Wash and all debris will be removed.
          Use Hook Wash to clean the rotary hook area as well as for a quick clean and flush when replacing reciprocators, needle cases, bobbin cases, and tensioner assemblies. Ideally use Hook Wash weekly as a rotary hook flush and clean and as needed when performing tune-ups on equipment.

        By using Hook Wash regularly, you can enhance performance of your embroidery machine by reducing thread breakage and bird nesting. Removing dirt, dust, and adhesive buildup in the rotary hook also reduces chances of thread snagging. Hook Wash is offered in 11-ounce aerosol cans for only $11.95 each. Buy 12 cans and get the 13th can for free!  INFO REQUEST
April 8
Apparel

Sleeveless Shooter T-Shirt from Chouinard

On the court, the track, or in the gym, this sleeveless shooter T-shirt, style 9077 from Chouinard of Northfield, VT, is in demand for its fashionable look and comfortable fit. It’s made of 100% 6.1-ounce preshrunk heavyweight cotton and is pigment dyed to produce the popular worn and weathered look. It’s ideal for use as a rec league uniform or as a practice shirt for basketball teams in school and city leagues. The shirt features a ribbed collar with a double-needle stitched neckline, armhole, and bottom hem for added durability. It also has shoulder to shoulder taping.
       
The shirt comes in marigold and white in direct/reactive dyes. In pigment dye colors, it comes in blue jean, blue spruce, crimson, pepper, denim, monarch, yam, flo blue, light green, and sandstone. Adult sizes start from small and go up to 3XL.Shirts can be custom dyed to your specifications with a minimum order.  INFO REQUEST

April 7
Apparel

New colors for organic apparel from Royal

Royal Apparel of New York, NY, a leading supplier of 100% certified organic apparel, has added new colors to its organics line in selected styles. The company’s most popular T-shirt, the RA5051, which is made of fine jersey, 4.4-ounce, 30/1 ring-spun combed cotton, is now available in cherry and mushroom. The women’s RA5001ORG, which is the female companion style, comes in cherry, mushroom, and canary. These new colors join the existing colors, which are salt, night, avocado, heaven, bark, slate, moss, natural, and ocean. The ladies’ style also comes in pink. Both styles have self-fabric shoulder to shoulder taping, a ¾-inch set-on neck trim, and 7-8 inch double-needle sleeve and bottom hems. The men’s comes in small through 3XL and the women’s comes in small through 2XL.  INFO REQUEST

April 7
Apparel

Ladies' Short-Sleeve T-Shirt in 100% Pima cotton

Brand new from Royal Apparel of New York, NY, is a ladies’ short-sleeve T-shirt made out of super soft 100% Pima cotton. Style RA16001, which features 3.5-ounce 40/1 fine jersey fabric, is finished with special treatments and washes for a superior luster. It has a set-on collar, blind stitch sleeve and bottom hem, and is taped shoulder to shoulder for added durability. To ensure a tailored fit, the garment is side seamed, and it has a tearaway label. Sizes range from small up to XL and colors include white, pink, chocolate, and black. Royal Apparel features a full line of fashion apparel for men, women, infants, and children.  INFO REQUEST

April 7
Apparel

Blake & Hollister offers new alternative in upscale corporate casual wear

         Looking to offer your customers a new alternative in upscale corporate casual? Consider this stylish short-sleeve coat-front shirt in men’s and women’s models, which is part of Blake & Hollister’s (Houston, TX) Elite line. The shirt is made of a specially designed fabric that consists of 60 singles/two-ply 100% combed ring-spun cotton yarn that has been caustic burned and double mercerized. The result is a silky soft feel and a beautiful high sheen. It features a hemmed bottom, dyed-to-match buttons, and hemmed sleeves.
        The men’s version, style 831, has a left chest pocket and comes in sizes ranging from small up to 3XL. The women’s style, 231, is without a chest pocket and the hemmed bottom has side vents. Sizes range from small through XL. Colors for both styles include light sand, black, frost skye, white, navy, frost pink, and maize.
INFO REQUEST

April 7
Apparel

Sierra Pacific offers convertible Pillow Blanket

This handy convertible Pillow Blanket, 3004, is ideal as part of any fan-based or spiritwear program because it’s unisex, is one size fits all, and can be used for a variety of outdoor school sports events to keep warm and serve as a blanket for sitting on the ground. Recipients also will find the pillow blanket handy for watching TV, traveling, camping, backpacking, or enjoying any outdoor event. It is made of machine washable 100% polyester fleece, and the 50-inch by 62-inch blanket folds into a 12-inch square pillow. In addition to the newest color pink, it also comes in maroon, heather gray, navy, red, purple, forest, black, royal, light blue, and yellow. A zippered nylon pocket on the outside of the blanket makes it possible to embroider the pillow without the stitching showing when the blanket is unfolded. Folding instructions are included. INFO REQUEST

April 7
Apparel

SOS From Texas has organic infant's one-piece outfit

What could be better for baby to wear than a super soft shirt that is made of pesticide-free organic cotton? SOS From Texas of Samnorwood, TX, has just added an infant’s one-piece snap crotch outfit that is free of any harmful substances, and the cotton is grown, cut, and sewn in the United States. This infant’s one-piece, style 140, features a crew neck, short sleeves, and three-snap crotch. There is rib knit trim on the collar and leg openings. The sleeves feature a double-needle hem. It comes in three sizes 0-6 months, 6-12 months, and 12-18 months. It comes in one color, the creamy natural shade of cotton in the field that has been washed but not bleached. This outfit is ideal for customers who care about the environment and want apparel made in the United States. INFO REQUEST

April 4
Engraving

RS Owens & Co.
recognizes employees

       Scott E. Siegel, MAS, president of R.S. Owens of Chicago, IL, established a new recognition program for employees, inducting nine into R.S. Owens' President's Club. The recipients received a beautiful crystal award etched with the company logo, their name and achievement, and they also became eligible to receive tickets to the 2009 Academy Awards.
     "Every day we fulfill hundreds of  award programs for our customers that recognize someone's accomplishment, and we are so aware of the importance of motivating  employees and celebrating great performance," says Siegel. He explained that the company was overdue for its own program and they modeled their program on the same principles they advise customers to follow -- clear criteria, present it specially, and provide a beautiful award for display by the recipient.
INFO REQUEST
April 2
Sublimation

Sawgrass introduces SubliJet System
for Epson C120

          Sawgrass Technologies of Charleston, SC, a world leader in the development of on-demand digital imaging technologies, announced that it has released the next-generation SubliJet system for the Epson C120 that is geared for new users or current sublimators looking to upgrade from the Epson C88 system.   The SubliJet system for the Epson C120 is a four-color, entry-level system.  Sawgrass offers PowerDriver, free driver software, for easy and consistent color management. SubliJet is available in cartridges and the QuickConnect bulk ink system for the lowest cost per print.  
          “We are excited to offer our customers a solution that exceeds their output expectations and meets their low-cost price point,” said Randy Hughes, Sales Director of Sawgrass Technologies.  “Combined with Sawgrass’ PartnerPlus service advantage, this system makes it easy for anyone looking to successfully add sublimation to their product mix.” 
The SubliJet system for the Epson C120 is now available for purchase through a network of authorized distributors. INFO REQUEST
April 2
Embroidery

Floriani Commercial offers new eco-friendly tearaway

Make your embroidery shop more environmentally friendly and cater to eco-conscious customers with a brand new tearaway from Floriani Commercial Products of Knoxville, TN.
       Eco-Friendly Green Tearaway is composed of natural renewable fibers that break down when agitated in water making it completely biodegradable. This 2.0-ounce tearaway is especially easy to remove from satin stitches or designs without outlines. By moistening the back of the design once it’s completed, you can easily pull away the excess without distorting or damaging delicate stitches.

       Green tearaway comes in two pre-cut sheet sizes: 8 inch by 8 inch and 12 inch by 12 inch. It also can be purchased in economical 15-inch by 100-yard rolls. It comes in white. INFO REQUEST
April 2
Embroidery

Floriani Commercial offers Fuwari 3-D Video

Fuwari 3-D Embroidery is a proprietary process that allows any embroiderer to stitch a specially digitized design on their machine and turn it into a feathery-soft creation that stands above the garment or fabric giving it a true three-dimensional look. It can be done on any type of fabric or garment in almost any location.
         It is offered by Floriani / RNK Commercial Products of Knoxville, TN, which has created a video that can be viewed at www.youtube.com/rnkdistributing that shows the easy step-by-step process of creating a Fuwari design. In addition to an embroidery machine, the process requires a proprietary Fuwari cutter, special bobbin thread, specialty topping, and a heat press.
        This patented process is ideal for creating a wide range of logos and graphics that are ideal for spiritwear, baby clothes, and commercial businesses. Imagine creating a logo for a carpet company that looked like a carpet! Visit the Web site to see what kinds of profitable opportunities this unique process can bring to your embroidery business.
INFO REQUEST

April 1
Embroidery

Colman & Co. offers new Patch Starter Kit

Colman and Co. of Tampa, FL, has a new Patch Starter Kit, where you can buy everything you need to create patches, badges, and emblems for any application that is ordered in small quantities of 50 pieces or under. There is no need to turn away small patch jobs.
       The Patch Kit includes one yard of patch material in white or black. Patch material also is available in 12 popular colors when purchased separately. This polyester material is an ideal stabilizer and makes a perfect background for patches that are not 100% stitches. It also has a heat-activated sealer on its reverse side to aid in the sealing process.
       As part of the kit, you also get a yard of heat seal roll. Heat seal roll is an adhesive film that is applied to the back of the patch material and not only seals the edges but allows them to be heat sealed to any type of fabric. Or you can use the heat seal roll as a tack-down to hold the emblem in place while you sew it.
        To seal the edges of the patch with the heat seal roll material, the kit includes a handy heat knife and a universal cutting tip. Combined, these two tools are used to give a patch a finished edge and eliminate unraveling or ragged edges. With the patch starter kit, you can cater to customers who need a custom patch without buying pre-made patch blanks in colors and have to guess what the customer will want.  
       
Colman and Co. is a full line supplier of supplies and accessories for embroidery and the DTG direct-to-garment printer.  INFO REQUEST

April 1
Sublimation

PSI has unique new easels and stands for sublimated tiles and ornaments

No Photos Available

        For those looking for different display options, Paramount Services Inc. of Hollywood, FL, has added a deluxe Ornament Stand with a walnut base that will allow someone to display their personalized treasures all year. Ornaments need not be just for the major holidays when you can proudly show them off on a desk top, shelf or other convenient area. For those that print plates or larger tiles, they now have a Colonial Style Plate/Tile Stand that is ideal for the larger items. Available in two finishes (oak or walnut), they will hold plates and other items up to 13" in height.  Lastly, they have a truly unique way to display some of the smaller tiles. They have hand carved and hand painted 3-D easels in a variety of animals...and one Pirate! (Aaaarg!) These are perfect for kids, animal lovers and a lot of special situations for small signs that needs to be noticed. Call 800-455-7212 or visit