The decorated apparel industry is changing faster than ever.
Artificial intelligence is transforming workflows. Automation is eliminating repetitive tasks. New equipment is dramatically reducing labor costs. And the print shops that embrace these changes will build a major competitive advantage over the next decade.
That is why Make-Ready 2026 is one of the most important events of the year for screen printers, embroiderers, apparel decorators, and shop owners.
On June 12, 2026, MADE Laboratory and Printed Threads will open their doors in Fort Worth for a completely free, hands-on event focused on education, innovation, and the future of decorated apparel.
Watch The Episode
What Is Make-Ready?
Make-Ready is a free industry event designed to bring together:
- Screen printers
- Embroiderers
- DTF and DTG operators
- Shop owners
- Production managers
- Artists and designers
- Customer service teams
- Operations leaders
The event combines live equipment demonstrations, educational sessions, networking, and a behind-the-scenes look at two of the most innovative facilities in the industry.
Unlike traditional trade shows where equipment is displayed in a booth, Make-Ready takes place inside real working production environments where these machines are used every day.
Inside MADE Laboratory
MADE Laboratory is one of the most impressive facilities in the decorated apparel industry.
Founded by Brett Bowden and his partners, the lab serves as a dedicated research and development center where manufacturers and decorators test fabrics, inks, equipment, and production techniques.
Steven Farag described it best:
“Think of the lab from Breaking Bad. That’s what MADE Lab feels like.”
The space was built to help the industry experiment, learn, and push decoration quality to the highest possible level.
What You’ll Experience
Attendees will get hands-on access to some of the most advanced equipment in the industry, including:
- ROQ automatic screen and heat presses
- Avient automated ink dispensing systems
- The new E70B Saati laser system
- Bluewater JetBlack systems
- Tajima embroidery machines
- DTF Station equipment from Gricmo
- Brother DTG Technology
- Stahls’ heat printing solutions
- GSF frames and mesh
- PMI tape
The team at Printed Threads will also be running their production facility next door, giving attendees a chance to see how these technologies are integrated into real-world workflows.
Featured Workshops by Steven Farag
Steven Farag will be leading two practical workshops focused on helping print shops adopt AI and build custom software tools.
AI Adoption with Employees
Artificial intelligence is only powerful if your team actually uses it.
In this session, Steven will share how Campus Ink rolled out a 20-day AI sprint that helped employees build real-world AI skills and integrate AI into their daily work.
Topics include:
- How to get employees comfortable using AI
- Practical use cases outside of artwork
- Using AI for task management and communication
- Faster spreadsheet and report analysis
- Creating a culture of experimentation
Vibe Coding Tools for Your Shop
You no longer need to be a software engineer to build custom tools.
In this session, Steven will demonstrate how to use AI-powered coding tools to create simple applications that solve everyday shop problems.
Examples include:
- Inventory management tools
- Supply reorder systems
- Screen counting apps
- Warehouse organization tools
- Operational dashboards
The goal is for every attendee to leave believing, “I can build software for my shop.”
Why AI Matters for Print Shops
Many decorators think AI is only useful for generating artwork.
That is a narrow view.
The biggest opportunity is using AI to:
- Analyze financial reports
- Automate data entry
- Improve communication
- Build operational tools
- Reduce repetitive tasks
The shops that adopt AI today will have a significant edge in efficiency, decision-making, and scalability.
A Real ROI Example
At a recent industry event, Brett asked his prepress team a simple question:
“How many hours per week do we spend mixing ink?”
The answer: approximately 20 hours every week.
That insight made the ROI on an automated ink dispenser obvious.
Sometimes one question can uncover thousands of dollars in labor savings.
That is exactly the type of practical insight Make-Ready is designed to deliver.
Who Should Attend?
Make-Ready is for anyone involved in decorated apparel, including:
- Shop owners
- Production managers
- Operations leaders
- Customer service representatives
- Artists and designers
- Sales teams
If you work in screen printing, embroidery, DTF, DTG, or heat printing, this event will provide actionable ideas you can apply immediately.
Why You Need to Get Out of Your Shop
Some of the best breakthroughs happen when you step away from day-to-day operations.
At events like Make-Ready, you can:
- Learn from peers
- Discover new technology
- Meet suppliers and manufacturers
- Build lasting industry relationships
- Return energized with new ideas
One conversation can lead to a better workflow.
One demo can reveal a tool that pays for itself in months.
One connection can change your business.
Why Fort Worth Is Worth the Trip
Fort Worth is one of the most vibrant cities in the country.
Visitors can enjoy:
- The historic Stockyards
- Twice-daily cattle drives
- World-class museums
- The Fort Worth Zoo
- Sundance Square
- The Water Gardens
There is also a discounted hotel block available for attendees.
The Best Part: It’s Free
There is no registration fee.
Food, drinks, educational sessions, and equipment access are all included thanks to generous sponsors and manufacturing partners.
The only investment is your time and travel.
Register Today
If you are serious about improving your shop, adopting AI, and connecting with some of the best operators in the industry, Make-Ready 2026 should be on your calendar.
Date: June 12, 2026
Location: MADE Laboratory, Printed Threads in Fort Worth, Texas
Cost: Free