Let's Talk Shop with...

In this episode of Let’s Talk Shop, we sit down with Kevin Kauth from Chromaline, known in the industry as the Emulsion Guru. With over 16 years of experience helping shops solve screen room challenges, Kevin shares insights on:

• Why consistency is the #1 key to success in the darkroom
• Common mistakes printers make with exposure and emulsion
• How his “Emulsion Guru” persona began as a joke and grew into a community resource
• The evolution of screen imaging technology (CTS and LTS)
• Industry trends like DTF, DTG, and where screen printing is headed
• Must-have tools and setups for building a reliable screen room

Kevin’s journey blends technical expertise with a passion for helping printers grow. Whether you’re running a manual press in your garage or managing multiple autos in a large shop, this conversation has tips you can apply today.

In this episode of Let’s Talk Shop, we sit down with the screen printing legend himself: Riley Hopkins. From building his first press in a San Francisco warehouse to losing millions and bouncing back, Riley shares a brutally honest, no-fluff story of innovation, risk, and perseverance.

With nearly 50 years in the screen printing industry, Riley helped shape what it looks like today—from launching rotary manual presses to teaming up with Ryonet. He opens up about the highs, the lows, and everything in between, including the moment he lost $4.5M in 15 minutes and what it took to come out stronger.
If you’re a maker, entrepreneur, or someone with a bar-napkin idea, this is a must-listen.

In this episode of Let's Talk Shop, we sit down with Jay, owner of Threaded Ink, to explore how he transitioned from a 21-year career in local government to running a thriving screen printing and heat transfer production business. Jay shares his journey of navigating the learning curve of DTF (Direct to Film) printing, overcoming challenges with equipment, and building a community-focused brand that delivers high-quality apparel. Whether you're a seasoned print shop owner or considering adding DTF production to your services, this conversation is packed with insights on scaling your business, maintaining quality, and fostering a positive company culture.

Welcome back to another episode of Let’s Talk Shop! 🎙️ Today, Brandon sits down with Victor Peña, the founder and CEO of OmniPrint International, to dive deep into the world of garment decoration, digital printing, and business growth. 💡

Victor shares his journey—from his early days in engineering to building a global brand in direct-to-garment (DTG) and direct-to-film (DTF) printing. They discuss the rise of DTF, how it’s changing the industry, and whether it’s a complement or competitor to screen printing. Plus, Victor drops invaluable business insights for shop owners, from when to invest in equipment to scaling your operations.

On this episode of Let’s Talk Shop, Jeff Fiorucci, creator of the Stampinator, joins us to share his incredible journey from screen printing rookie to industry innovator. Hear how Jeff got his start by boldly diving into a screen printing job with no experience and ended up creating a tool that would revolutionize the industry.

In this episode, we sit down with Britta Sanders from ZSK Embroidery, a global leader in industrial embroidery machines. Britta shares ZSK’s rich 150-year history, tracing its evolution from textile weaving to pioneering advancements in modern embroidery. Discover how ZSK’s versatile machines are transforming industries—from high fashion to automotive and even medical textiles. We also dive into the future of smart textiles and Industry 4.0, exploring how ZSK stays ahead with adaptable technology. Britta reflects on her personal journey from technical studies to creative problem-solving for customers around the world. Whether you’re a screen printer curious about expanding into embroidery or fascinated by the intersection of art and technology, this conversation is full of inspiration.

In this episode of Let’s Talk Shop, we chat with Jennifer from Pigskins & Pigtails about how she turned her love for DIY and crafting into a full-time screen-printing business. Learn how Jennifer went from creating custom vinyl T-shirts for her kids to teaching thousands how to screen print from home!

In this episode of "Let's Talk Shop," we chat with Zack, the creative force behind Self-Made Designs. Zack shares his incredible journey from customizing old sneakers to becoming a recognized name in the screen printing industry.

Zack dives into his early days, explaining how he started by painting an old skateboard and then moved on to customizing sneakers. He talks about the challenges he faced, like learning screen printing from scratch, and the exciting moments, such as his first big art sale and working with famous athletes.

Zack also discusses building a supportive community for artists and adapting his business during tough times, like the COVID-19 pandemic. His passion for continuous learning and creativity shines through as he shares his future plans for Self-Made Designs. This episode is packed with insights on screen printing, entrepreneurship, and the importance of seizing every opportunity.

In this episode of "Let's Talk Shop," we chat with Mel L., co-founder of Allmade and former owner of Sandilake Clothing. Mel talks about her journey from crafting duct tape t-shirts to running a successful screen printing business. 

Mel dives into the early days of Sandilake, sharing how she learned screen printing from scratch to create unique kids' apparel. She discusses the highs and lows, including the time Target copied her design, which led to a media frenzy and skyrocketed her sales.

Mel also talks about co-founding Allmade, focusing on sustainable apparel. Despite challenges, her passion for creating different, eco-friendly products kept her going. Now, Mel is all in with Allmade, working on innovative fabrics and making sure every shirt tells a story. This episode is packed with insights on screen printing, entrepreneurship, and the power of community in the apparel industry.

Join Ryan Moor as he chats with Chad K. from PrintGRIP who shares his journey from printing softball shirts for friends to revolutionizing the industry with groundbreaking products. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting out, "Let's Talk Shop" offers insights, stories, and tips to inform and inspire.

Tune-in to discover the passion, challenges, and triumphs that define the vibrant amazing world of screen printing.