Pretty in Polka Dots increases revenue by over 300% in six months with VersaUV LEF printer

Pretty in Polka Dots, based in Kentucky, USA, is sitting pretty since the installation of a Roland VersaUV LEF benchtop UV flatbed printer: its revenue climbed by over 300 per cent in the machine's first six months – and the LEF's capabilities have opened up a new world of printed output.

Korie and Ben Laskowski's Madisonville shop specialises in custom-printed wooden products, with the pair initially applying cut vinyl to items and signage by hand. This work was then outsourced as Pretty in Polka Dots grew.

"Outsourcing worked, but it was expensive and took time," says Ben. "We needed our own production capability. The Roland VersaUV LEF was the logical choice. Its size, quality and price point are perfect for our business."

With the logical boxes ticked, the Laskowskis were able to get creative. The Roland VersaUV LEF is able to print directly onto wood, even with white ink. Popular items include white painted signs, wood plank picture frames and, especially, reclaimed pallet wood signs.

"The Roland VersaUV LEF opened us up to a whole new world. Lots of shops are offering hand-painted or stencilled signs, but they can't work on a rough surface – we run the wood right through the LEF and our prints come out perfect."

"Lots of shops are offering hand-painted or stencilled signs, but they can't work on a rough surface – we run the wood right through the LEF and our prints come out perfect," explains Ben.

"It's opened us up to a whole new world," adds Korie.

Thanks to the Roland VersaWorks RIP software, the printer is also easy to use and a huge time-saver – often running overnight.

"We just load the LEF's queues, insert the blocks or flip them, press a button and walk away," says Ben. "It's like having another full-time employee."

Having multiplied its revenue in just six months, Pretty in Polka Dots is planning to expand in terms of new facilities, a wider-reaching online retail platform and selling through more bricks-and-mortar shops.

The Roland VersaUV LEF benchtop UV flatbed printer can print directly onto an almost endless variety of materials, from rough >woodto smooth plastics. Learn more about this cool technology and be inspired.