Your Shop, Your Vibe: Screen Printers Share What Makes Their Spaces Shine

QUESTION:

What is your favorite feature of your store/shop/office and why?

• Water cooler! We have a fancy water cooler that adds minerals and the water is super cold, which is a godsend in hot Texas. — Ian G. , Austin, TX
• Culture. Our culture and identity in the building is special. Our staff sees the bigger picture and they work toward it. — Ron A., Dickson City, PA
• The ‘vibe’ I have. It’s a great culture where everyone gets along well yet focuses on production. — Colette W., Cape Coral, FL
• The flexibility of our schedules. We can take care of our families’ needs, schedules, or appointments without worrying that we will be in trouble as long as our work is done. — Sharon G., Garden City, MI
• My favorite feature of Mantis Ink? It’s the raw energy! The shop is my stage — the organized chaos of racks and inks, the thunderous hum of the presses … It’s my domain. My canvas. The music blasts a killer guitar riff, a pounding drumbeat, and the dance begins. I guide each shirt through the process, transforming it from blank canvas to wearable masterpiece. And then, the final ‘mic drop’ moment — holding up the finished print. That moment, that feeling of pride in a job well done, that’s what makes Mantis Ink special. — Scott P., Foley, AL
• I feel like most shops are located in industrial parks tucked away from the public eye. Ours is located on a busy highway and was built to be welcoming to walk-ins. I think our accessible location is my favorite feature and also has attributed to a rise in sales. — Ryan T., Polk City, IA
• Our showroom was custom-made to display our wearables. The products and samples are organized and there are comfortable seats to meet with customers. — Jim H., Brunswick, OH
• We have no enclosed offices. The shop is wide open so when we are talking on the phone with customers the shop sounds are buzzing in the background. I’ve always thought it was a charming touch. — Robert F., Naperville, IL
• Our showroom. We get so many compliments on it. And, it’s such an eye-opener to the clients who think we only print T-shirts and hoodies. — Rojo D., Clinton, OK