Every maker has a unique story. Today, we're thrilled to share the journey of Francisco Perez, a passionate hobbyist who turned his fascination with t-shirt pressing into a fulfilling creative pursuit.
The Spark of a New Passion
"I was always fascinated watching people pressing shirts. The fact that you can put any art or text on a shirt is a very satisfying thing."
This interest, combined with practical considerations, set Francisco on his path to becoming a hobbyist t-shirt maker:
"After ordering shirts for a church function from Custom Ink and VistaPrint, and especially when I saw how much more expensive it gets as you add colors, I always thought that I could save money and do it myself."
Discovering Ninja Transfers
In March 2024, Francisco's journey took an exciting turn when he discovered Ninja Transfers. What attracted him to us?
In his own words: "Reviews. I thought the quality was good and liked the website."
Francisco's decision to start making his own custom shirts wasn't made lightly. He did his research and found that modern technology could make his hobby both enjoyable and cost-effective:
"After learning about the latest heat press machines and about companies like Ninja Transfers, and the fact that colors and design did not make any difference in price and the affordable prices on the blanks, I decided to 'pull the trigger', the best decision ever."
Saving His Church Money
"I am saving money, having fun and enjoying designing."
The cost savings have been meaningful, not just for Francisco personally but also for his church:
"I am saving about 20% to 30% by creating my own shirts! In 2023, we purchased 60 shirts in a single (boring) color, done by Custom Ink, and it cost almost $600. This year, multi-color (and exciting) DTFs and blanks from Ninja Transfers cost about $450.
I also made about 30 shirts for sale, at a cost of about $280, and sold them for about $450.”
These savings are particularly impactful because the project is "Mostly church funding. I fund my own products to sell to friends or to give to family." For a small church, these cost reductions can make a substantial difference, allowing them to allocate more resources to other important ministry and community service areas.
“Plus, the fun of designing my own multicolor art and the fact I can press whatever the heck I want and in any quantity is priceless."
The Ninja Transfers Experience
When asked about his favorite aspects of working with Ninja Transfers, Francisco's enthusiasm is palpable:
"The quality of the transfers, the fact that you guys can print whatever the heck I have on my screen is amazing, you guys are very good at removing the backgrounds, and have a great selection of blanks."
But it's not just about the products. Francisco finds a deeper satisfaction in the process:
"I do love this stuff. I actually enjoy it and I even find it calming and entertaining. Lol. And again, your DTF products are very good and had zero issues after more than 200 presses."
Francisco’s Creative Process
Francisco's approach to creating designs is multifaceted. He explains:
"I do some creating from internet content and adjust and modify using MS Paint, but normally I buy digital downloads from websites like Etsy, then send to you guys to print. Every once in a while I purchase ready to press from online sellers."
This flexible approach allows him to balance creativity with efficiency, ensuring he can produce a wide variety of designs for both church events and personal projects.
When it comes to the blank shirts he uses, Francisco has clear preferences:
"I like the Gildan G200 blanks. But I am in the process of trying the G500. Your pricing on these is great."
A Growing Hobby
Despite not having a dedicated workspace yet, Francisco has fully embraced this new hobby. He uses a HTVRONT Heat Press 15" by 15" and has already created hundreds of custom shirts. The pride in his work shines through when he says:
"Proud to say…. I made those shirts!….."
Wisdom for Beginners New to DTF
Francisco's journey has given him valuable insights, which he's eager to share with newcomers to the craft:
"Make sure you understand not all fonts are gonna work and how the blank color will help the art to stand out or negatively affect it. Always let it cool and 'peel with your eyes'."
He emphasizes the importance of quality and preparation:
“Resolution will dictate quality, so always order a sample before going for volume if possible."
Francisco also offers sage advice about equipment:
"A DTF printer can cost tons of money; do not invest in one unless your business is producing the income to justify it. And then you will need the software…. Me, I let the Ninjas do the work and I just press. I love it!"
The Joy of Creation
For Francisco, this hobby has become more than just a way to save money. It's a source of calm, entertainment, and pride. His story is a testament to the joy that can be found in creating custom products, whether for community events, for friends and family, or simply for the love of the craft.
At Ninja Transfers, we're honored to be part of Francisco's creative journey. His experience showcases how accessible and enjoyable custom t-shirt making with DTF transfers can be for hobbyists. Whether you're crafting for your community, family, or personal enjoyment, we're here to support your creative vision every step of the way.
Happy pressing, and may your transfers always peel perfectly!
