Heat Printing and Community: Insights from Kelly Walters, Stahls’ Director of Experiential Marketing

Kelly Walters, Director of Experiential Marketing at Stahls, shares insights into the art of heat printing, the innovations shaping the industry, and how building a thriving community of decorators has set Stahls apart as a global leader in heat printing solutions.

Q: Introduce yourself, your role, and what your company does.

Kelly Walters: I’m Kelly Walters, Director of Experiential Marketing at Stahls. Our company is the global leader in heat printing, providing everything from equipment and transfer production to software. We empower decorators with the tools they need to create high-quality, customized products.

Q: What is heat printing?

Kelly Walters: Heat printing is what you often see in action at pro shops or mall kiosks where custom apparel is made on demand. Our Hotronix heat presses use high temperatures to apply logos or designs onto garments. While it might look like we’re just “smashing” a logo onto fabric, there’s a precise method to ensuring a high-quality finish. If you’ve ever picked up a custom T-shirt at an event or shop, chances are it was made with a heat press.

Q: What new things are you bringing to your customers this year?

Kelly Walters: The trend we’re seeing is dimensional products making a comeback in retail and fashion. Customization now combines various print methods—flat prints, sparkles, reflective silicone—into mixed media designs. Oversized and bold prints are leading the way, and we’re helping decorators stay ahead by introducing these innovative approaches.

Q: How do you balance customer-led innovation with presenting new possibilities to them?

Kelly Walters: It’s about thinking outside the box. We emphasize education and building a community where decorators can share their challenges and solutions. Whether they’re exploring mixed media or venturing into new techniques, we help them break down their vision into achievable steps. This collaborative approach lets us innovate alongside our customers while introducing them to untapped possibilities.

Q: What are some of the most interesting things customers have asked you to make?

Kelly Walters: One standout request was during the Printing United show in October 2024. A customer brought in a fully rhinestoned hat and asked us to apply a logo to it without glue, using only heat application. It took experimenting on several hats, but we achieved a result that balanced quality and brand integrity. It was a memorable and fun challenge!

Q: How do you build a community and learn from it?

Kelly Walters: Our Heat Press for Profit Facebook group connects decorators of all experience levels—from beginners to 40-year veterans. Members share tips on pricing, transfers, customer service, and more. We also run the Heat Press for Profit Podcast, featuring industry experts, partners, and decorators. These initiatives foster collaboration and ensure decorators know they’re not alone in their journey.

Q: What’s unique about Stahls, and why should people work with your company?

Kelly Walters: We’re more than a supplier—we’re partners in your success. From testing to providing free education, we’re with our customers every step of the way. It’s not about selling equipment or transfers and moving on; it’s about ensuring you feel confident and capable in growing your business. That’s what truly sets us apart.

From empowering decorators with cutting-edge tools to building a vibrant community, Stahls leads the heat printing industry with innovation, education, and unwavering support. Kelly Walters’ insights highlight the transformative potential of collaboration and creativity in customization.

Forward | Subscribe | Follow Us

SPONSORED BY

Not affiliated with PPAI