Impressions Expothe premier trade exhibition and conference dedicated to the decorated apparel and printed products industry, was held from January 18–21 in Long Beach Convention Center in Long Beach, California.
“Impressions Expo exceeded our expectations. With engaging activations in the arena to impactful performances in the lobby, the excitement resonated. The Shop Talks, exhibit floor and conference sessions drew enthusiastic crowds, leaving attendees and exhibitors delighted with the successful outcome,” said Kayla McGarry, associate director of the show.
Trends in technology
based in Israel Kornit Digital showcased Apollo, which, CEO Ronen Samuel said, “enables you to print directly on any fabric without using water and turn it into the product you want, whether it’s a dress or a sofa.” Samuel added, “You can produce 400 garments an hour of the highest quality, requiring only one operator to run it.” New technology enables customer orders to be returned within 24 hours.
Epson America, Inc., based in Los Alamitos, Calif., highlighted its entry-level SureColor F1070 hybrid DTG and DTFilm printer, designed to open new doors for garment decorators, designers and craft businesses wanting direct-to-garment printing. “It’s beautiful, library-friendly and fits almost anywhere,” said Tim Check, senior product manager, textiles.
based in Japan Mimaki released new TXF30075 direct-to-film printer with two print heads, which is three times faster than a single print head model. “You’re looking at about 66 shirts per hour for an 11×14-inch design,” said Victoria Harris, textile segment specialist.
Wilmington, Del.–DuPont showcased its pigment inks for DTF and DTG printing with its Artistri innovation. Inks, developed for CobraFlex printer, was running all day every day for the duration of the event. “It was exciting to see people coming back hours later to check if the printer was still working and to see how much had been printed so far,” said Gabriela Kim, global marketing manager for DuPont Artistri.
What’s new in Ts
Vernon, based in California US Gaps made a big push for sustainability with 55 percent hemp and 45 percent organic women’s V-necks and tops. The company also displayed competitive cutting, sewing and dyeing of 25 styles of clothing, including its long-sleeve, flame-resistant fabric that meets workwear requirements.
based in Los Angeles Clothing in Los Angeles is developing a heavier, plush, puffy fleece for hoodies, collars and sweatpants. “We think it’s going to be really popular for us,” said Briana Alvarez, production coordinator, private label, who added, “It’s 16 oz. versus 14 oz., it comes in dolphin blue, and it’s 100 percent cotton, so it doesn’t shrink.
“We’re excited to enter the new year with our newly released EcoMax Tee made with 100 percent recycled polyester and waterless dyed cotton waste,” said Jeaneviv Siao, marketing and events manager at Los Angelos designed, painted and cut. Bella + Canvas. The brand also released a 6 oz. Heavyweight t-shirt with a boxy, relaxed fit.
Sarah Spivey in Style Spy V in Irvine, Calif., buys promotional products and apparel with Bella + Canvas for schools, restaurants and corporations. “I like the colors and that it’s a bit more modern than the typical t-shirt with a softer feel and a nicer fit than the standard generic t-shirt.”
Winston-Salem, NC based Hanes brands introduced its CiCLO technology, which allows plastic-based fibers to behave more like natural fibers. There has also been a rediscovery of the heritage Hanes Beefy T. “People are looking for something a little heavier—6 oz. 100 percent cotton, more durable, but still a soft, relaxed fit and closer to the streetwear trend happening right now,” said Marcus Davis, product manager.
based in Montreal Gildan Inc. introduced six new styles and nine vibrant colors in the line including Gildan 2000. Its new soft cotton technology in T-shirts is said to do almost everything 100 percent cotton does.
based in Canada American Apparel thrilled customers with freshly screen-printed t-shirts to promote its new campaign, Craft the Culture, in conjunction with its renewed partnership with Live Nation entertainment as its official printed clothing supplier.
“The original basics of fashion all started in 2001. Last year we didn’t have a hood; Now, we practically doubled the line and we’re coming back with a reflex fleece because it has recycled poly in it,” said Brand Marketing Director Jean-Francois Bergeron. Bergeron also shared his excitement about the campaign’s inclusion at a number of events from Chicago to Los Angeles.
based in Atlanta Alternative clothing offered a newer fabrication with a tri-blend cotton, including natural modal fibers derived from beech wood pulp, which allows the fabric to use cotton colors with a softer, darker finish.