This week on Shirt Show, Dylan sat down with Chris Fahrbach of Mixture, a New York-based screen printer with more than 20 years in the business. Chris shared how skateboarding culture pulled him into the industry, what he’s learned running a shop long-term, and why simplicity often beats overcomplication. For any shop owner looking to balance growth with sanity, this conversation is worth the listen.
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KEY TAKEAWAYS
- Retail Spaces: Chris once ran four satellite locations at the same time. The extra storefronts created visibility and landed dream clients, but rising rent, seasonal slowdowns, and staffing made it unsustainable. Today, he’s streamlined to one direct-to-garment hub plus a subleased retail space, a model that keeps overhead low while still giving customers a local connection.
- Sales Philosophy: Forget the funnel hype. Chris believes real conversations and handshakes still drive better results than ads. By delivering samples and talking directly with business owners, he builds relationships that last for years. For print shops, this is a reminder that customer relationships are more powerful than clicks.
- Choosing the Right Blanks: A shop’s job isn’t just to print what the customer asks for. It’s to educate them. Chris shared how recommending a higher-quality blank like Comfort Colors or AS Colour can transform merch sales for clients. When the shirt becomes someone’s “favorite tee,” they come back for more.
- Giving Back: Extra or misprinted shirts don’t go to waste at Mixture. Chris donates them directly to local schools, stocking nurse’s offices with blank tees and sweatshirts so kids in need have something fresh to wear. It’s a simple way to give back to the community while reducing waste.
- Efficiency vs. Burnout: Lean systems and new equipment mean jobs fly off the press faster than ever. The irony? The shop feels slower, even though sales are steady. Chris and Dylan discussed how efficiency can mask success—and why shop owners need to pay attention to the bigger picture, not just the daily pace.
- Shop Hack: Instead of firing up the spot gun for small smudges, Chris uses blue blockout tape. A quick dab pulls the ink up, saving time and chemicals. Simple hacks like this add up to smoother workflows.
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WHY IT MATTERS
Screen printing is more than ink on a shirt. It’s about smart shop management, customer education, and community connection. From deciding whether retail space is worth it, to picking blanks that elevate client brands, to keeping operations efficient without burning out: these are the daily challenges printers face. Chris’s story proves that success often comes from sticking to fundamentals and making intentional choices.
For shop owners, the message is clear: focus on relationships, stay efficient, and look for ways to give back. Whether you’re just starting out or 20 years in, these principles will keep your print business healthy for the long haul.
Want more great discussions around the printing industry? Watch more Shirt Show here.