Impressions - March 2024 - 35

" The decoration method you choose
will determine what you buy, but the
items you actually take to the event should
be compact and as minimal as possible, "
Combs says. " Have an understanding of how
much onsite production you are actually
capable of, before committing to events
where you might be overwhelmed and in
turn disappoint your customer. In other
words, communicate with your customer
your capabilities beforehand, so there's no
confusion. "
According to Combs, there are multiple
benefits for decorators and consumers when
it comes to live digital decorating. Consumers
can be really intrigued and enjoy seeing
the step-by-step process. Outside of profits
for the decorator, this type of exposure, more
often than not, can lead to new customers
seeing what decorators can do in real time
resulting in more events being booked. These
interactions create undeniable credibility
and trust once customers can " see " that
you're able to produce outstanding results.
Of course, just like any other job, live
decorating is not without its potential snafus.
" Weather, poor attendance, the difficulty of
moving your equipment from your shop
and back again can all be cons, " Combs
says. " But the opportunities do outweigh
them. As to mishaps, try to keep your process
and your offerings simple and as risk free
as possible. Sometimes unforeseen issues
arise, and things happen. Be prepared with
backup plans, just in case, or be ready to
move on. "
Music and pop culture are ideal
themes for live decorating events.
Photo courtesy of Impressions Expo
That preparation requires careful planning,
specifically putting together a curated
list of everything you will need from the
time you leave your shop and hit the road
to setting up and working the event. Being
meticulous will help avoid mishaps. From
what Combs has seen, some decorators set
up a full trailer with their preferred equipment
permanently mounted for common
outdoor events; while others, can simply load
up a rented van or truck with equipment
and supplies. Carts with heavy-duty casters
are always a plus, Combs says because of
the irregular surfaces you may encounter
in a live setting.
" With digital decorating, a DTF (directto-film)
printer wouldn't be practical to
take to an event, but incredibly easy to take
transfers, a heat press and blank garments, "
says Combs. " For DTG, some machines are
mobile, and others are not. When taking
a DTG machine to an event, you would
commonly have the shirts pretreated. At
the event, you could do custom graphics
or event photos armed with your printer,
a heat press and blank garments. "
He goes on to say, depending on the
event and the market, decorators even have
the opportunity with digital decorating
to do individual custom images; although,
simplify the process by creating templates
allowing you to drop in a photo or a name
quickly, which keeps the line moving to
avoid lengthy wait times that can frustrate
customers and drive those prospects away.
When it comes to the equipment section
of your prep list, certain types are better than
others for live printing. A more compact
printer, whether DTG, DTF or sublimation,
will make the process easier. Combs advises
decorators to consult their warranty to be
sure a particular piece of equipment can be
used in this manner without voiding the
warranty. In reference to DTG, DTF and
sublimation, a mobile shop with equipment
secured in place could be compatible with
any of these technologies. However, Combs
points out that if you're moving into a venue,
DTG and sublimation are the best options.
" This market has real growth potential for
the decorator who likes to be in front of the
public, " Combs says. " Be ready to explain
the process over and over again. People are
intrigued by what we do every day. "
In addition to T-shirts, hats are a
great option for onsite decorating.
Photo courtesy of Impressions Expo
When it comes to the
equipment section of
your prep list, certain
types are better than
others for live printing
March 2024
P.35
Impressions - March 2024

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