Counselor Top 40 supplier World Emblem (asi/98264) has added a new technique to its lineup. The emblem and patch manufacturer has launched 3-D foam direct embroidery, which adds a raised puff effect and three-dimensional texture to headwear.

“Our premium direct embroidery services bring headwear to the next level while providing convenient fulfillment options for our customers,” said Randy Carr, CEO of World Emblem. “3-D foam direct embroidery has a premium, eye-catching look that enables products to stand out from the crowd.”

Customers can provide their own hats for 3-D foam embroidery application, and World Emblem will ship them back or fulfill the orders directly. Alternatively, customers can purchase blank headwear through avenues like Counselor Top 40 supplier S&S Activewear (asi/84358) and designate World Emblem as the decorator.

The South Florida-based World Emblem produces and ships nearly 250 million products a year for sports headwear, footwear, sports garments, uniforms and other apparel. Based on 2023 North American promotional products revenue of $100 million, World Emblem ranked 20th on Counselor’s most recent list of the top suppliers in the industry.

DTG Connection Rebrands to Printer Biz

DTG Connection has rebranded with a new name, logo and brand identity.

DTG Connection, which offers digital garment printing solutions, has rebranded to Printer Biz, a name inspired by the evolving needs of its customers. The company said the change reflects a continued dedication to supporting entrepreneurs with an expanded suite of technologies and services that go beyond direct-to-garment (DTG) to meet the growing demands of the custom printing community.

DTG Connection has launched a variety of digital printing platforms over the years and says it’s also been a top seller of Epson’s garment printers.

“Our deep roots in the DTG space have given us a unique understanding of our customers’ needs,” said Karl Tipre, founder of DTG Connection. “But the technology and the businesses we serve have outgrown the limitations of any single method. This name change to Printer Biz reflects our focus on helping custom print businesses succeed – no matter what technology they use today or tomorrow.”

As Printer Biz, the company will continue offering the same products and support. Over the coming months, the company will also launch a new website, printerbiz.com.

Stahls’ Transfer Express Launches MerchMaker Heat Press

Stahls’ Transfer Express (asi/91804) has released the MerchMaker heat press.

Stahls’ Transfer Express (asi/91804), a provider of custom heat transfers, has launched the MerchMaker, a new lightweight, compact clamshell and draw-style heat press. The company says it combines top-level features, streamlined design and affordability, making it a smart entry point for entrepreneurs and small businesses ready to launch or expand custom apparel operations.

Features include dual functionality as either a traditional clamshell or pull-out draw press; smart LCD screen with time, temperature and pressure displayed; fast heating; patented over-the-center pressure adjustment for even application; and a portable and lightweight design for tight workspaces and on-the-go availability.

To support new decorators, Transfer Express will include a free marketing kit at a $75 value with every purchase of the MerchMaker. The kit includes heat transfer samples, educational materials, how-to guides, application charts and more tools.

Roland DGA Announces Availability of New Design Software

Roland DGA has a new software application – Roland DG Connect Designer – that lets its printer users easily design print-ready graphics optimized for output on their devices.

Roland DGA, a provider of wide-format inkjet printers and printer/cutters, has released a new software application, Roland DG Connect Designer, that it says will enable Roland DG printer users to easily design print-ready graphics optimized for output on their devices.

Part of Roland DG Connect – the company’s set of software tools for business workflow – the designer application offers three functions: easy-to-use design creation for novice users; generation of automated print settings; and the ability for the unique functions of various printers to be incorporated into the design by using modules specific to each device.

“Roland DG is renowned not only for making digital devices that offer unsurpassed ease of use, but also for developing software that makes what was once complicated incredibly simple,” said Scott Burgess, Roland DGA’s software product manager. “With Designer and a Roland DG printer, even those with little or no design experience can bring their creative visions to life quickly and easily.”

In addition, Roland has launched the DIMENSE DA-640 dimensional surface printer, a wide-format machine that produces full-color prints with unique embossing effects more easily and cost-effectively than alternative methods. The machine is ideal for a print provider who wants to expand into décor or an interior designer creating exclusive rich finishes and textures, according to the company.

Roland also announced recently that it has added three key dealers to its ever-expanding network of authorized resellers. The newly established partnerships with Grimco, N. Glantz and Clampitt Paper will help Roland DGA achieve its overall sales goals and better serve the needs of customers, according to the company.