Photo courtesy of Sawgrass Technologies
Sawgrass Technologies has introduced VersiFlex, a patented decorating system designed to expand the capabilities of traditional sublimation printing by allowing decorators to produce vibrant, full-color designs on a wider range of substrates including cotton garments, natural materials and coated hard goods.
The system combines specialized inks, transfer papers, software and Sawgrass printers to deliver a flexible workflow aimed at small businesses, makers and apparel decorators seeking an all-in-one production solution.
A Hybrid Approach to Apparel Decoration
VersiFlex was engineered to blend the strengths of multiple decoration methods—such as sublimation, direct-to-film (DTF) and direct-to-garment (DTG)—while eliminating many of the limitations typically associated with those processes.
The result is a single decorating system capable of producing transfers for both soft goods and hard substrates using a compact desktop setup.
Unlike traditional sublimation, which typically requires polyester fabrics or polymer-coated substrates, VersiFlex can print on:
- 100% cotton apparel
- Canvas and linen textiles
- Uncoated wood and stone
- Ceramic and coated drinkware
- Promotional products and accessories
This versatility allows decorators to produce apparel, home décor items and promotional merchandise without investing in multiple printing systems.
Expanding Opportunities for Cotton Printing
One of the most notable advantages of VersiFlex is its ability to decorate light-colored cotton garments, something traditional sublimation cannot do.
The system uses specially formulated inks and transfer media to create full-color transfers that adhere to natural fibers and other materials.
For apparel decorators, this opens new opportunities to produce cotton T-shirts and other garments while maintaining the vibrant color reproduction typically associated with sublimation printing.
Self-Weeding Transfers and Simplified Workflow
VersiFlex transfers are designed with self-weeding technology, meaning only the printed design transfers to the substrate during heat application. Excess film or unwanted edges are automatically removed, eliminating the need for manual trimming.
This simplified process can help reduce production time while maintaining consistent print quality. The system works with Sawgrass’ established printing ecosystem, including:
- Sawgrass desktop printers
- VersiFlex inks
- Specialized transfer papers
- Sawgrass design and color-management software
Together, these components create a streamlined workflow intended to help decorators quickly move from design to finished product.
Designed for Small Businesses and Growing Shops
Sawgrass developed VersiFlex with entrepreneurs, creators and small decoration businesses in mind.
The compact system provides the ability to produce multiple product categories, such as apparel, drinkware and décor, from a single workstation, reducing equipment investment and floor space requirements.
By enabling decorators to expand beyond polyester garments and coated substrates, VersiFlex offers a pathway for shops to diversify their product offerings and tap into new markets.
