Strategy

Decorating Roundup: Inkcups Updates Helix ONE Direct-to-Object Printer

Plus, Stahls’ has released its latest fanwear guide, and Roland DGA has upgraded one of its DTF printers.

Key Takeaways

• Inkcups has updated its Helix ONE cylindrical UV printer with auto file and barcode scanning, a jettable primer for powder-coated products and support for smaller diameter items.


• Stahls’ (asi/88984) has released its 2025 Fanwear Guide, showcasing new trends in custom fanwear, decoration techniques and apparel styles.


• Roland DGA has enhanced its VersaSTUDIO BY-20 DTF printer with new S-PG2 inks, maintenance and software upgrades.


• American Print & Supply has launched The Kraken, an eight-head DTF printer with extended color capabilities, 32-inch width and high-speed output over 650 square feet per hour.

Inkcups, a manufacturer of digital inkjet and other printing equipment, has introduced a number of updates to boost efficiency and expand application possibilities for its Helix ONE entry-level benchtop cylindrical UV direct-to-object printer.

direct-to-object printer

Inkcups has announced updates to its Helix ONE direct-to-object printer.

The updates include auto file and barcode scanning to streamline file management; SureBond Primer, a jettable primer used to promote adhesion on powder-coated products; and smaller diameter capability, making the printer compatible with products such as shot glasses, spice jars and cosmetic bottles, in addition to drinkware, candle holders and plastic bottles.

“The Helix ONE’s affordable price, compact design and scalability make it an ideal solution for businesses looking to expand into printing directly onto cylindrical objects,” said Gregory Harwood, director of digital product management and global service at Inkcups. “We are always impressed by the creativity and innovation of our customers, and we can’t wait to see what our Helix ONE users produce utilizing these new additions.”

Stahls’ Releases 2025 Fanwear Guide

Fanwear

Stahls’ (asi/88984) has released its 2025 Fanwear Guide, featuring the latest trends in custom fanwear, decoration techniques and blank apparel styles.

Stahls’ (asi/88984), the St. Clair Shores, MI-based supplier of heat printing technology and heat transfers, has released its 2025 Fanwear Guide, calling it a comprehensive resource for the latest trends in custom fanwear, decoration techniques and blank apparel styles.

The guide highlights a range of apparel styles and heat printing techniques to help decorators deliver customized looks across high school, collegiate and NIL markets. A dedicated section of the guide introduces the concept of “chaotic customization,” a trend reflecting Gen Z’s preference for high-impact personalization. Methods for achieving this look through oversized appliqué, vibrant color schemes, mixed textures and alternative placements are outlined in the section.

“This is the best fanwear guide we’ve ever created,” said Dane Clement, vice president of creative and art at Stahls’. “It’s more than trend forecasting. It’s a practical toolkit to help decorators elevate their apparel offerings with ideas that are profitable, scalable and easy to execute with the right tools.”

Roland DGA Enhances Productivity of DTF Printer

desktop direct-to-film printer

Roland DGA has announced new ink and functionality enhancements for its VersaSTUDIO BY-20 desktop direct-to-film printer.

Roland DGA, a provider of wide-format inkjet printers and printer/cutters, has announced new ink and functionality enhancements for its VersaSTUDIO BY-20 desktop direct-to-film (DTF) printer.

Developed exclusively for DTF applications, S-PG2 inks deliver higher image quality, better durability and greater stability throughout the print process, according to the company. Plus, new maintenance and software upgrades increase reliability, ease of use and convenience. The enhancements should expand the machine’s appeal to startups, home-based businesses and screen printers looking for an efficient way to handle short-run jobs profitably, Roland DGA explains.

“Our new S-PG2 inks, as well as the beneficial maintenance and software updates, allow for a ‘refreshed’ BY-20 solution that provides a more powerful platform for first-time users and growing businesses alike,” said Daniel Valade, Roland DGA’s product manager of digital print. “These are important, solution-oriented improvements designed to help users start stronger, print better and scale faster.”

Roland DGA also announced the addition of ND Graphics as its newest authorized Canadian dealer. ND Graphics will now offer a range of Roland products through its 10 branches across Canada.

American Print & Supply Launches 8-Head DTF Machine

Peoria, IL-based American Print & Supply has officially launched The Kraken, a DTF printer that features eight Epson printheads, extended color capabilities and fast output.

The Kraken prints at over 650 square feet per hour with a dual rail magnetic drive system, eliminating belt drag and boosting speed and stability. With a 32-inch print width, it’s compatible with larger roll media and ideal for high-capacity workflows.

“We wanted to build something that wasn’t just faster. It had to be smarter, cleaner and ready to address the needs of the growing DTF market,” said Rob Super, president and founder at American Print & Supply. “The Kraken is built to grow with your business and dominate the most demanding production environments.”