Getting to know Matt, owner of Heaps Good Merch
Matt Dixon is the passionate owner behind Heaps Good Merch, a vibrant print shop located in sunny Queensland. What began as a clothing brand aimed at cutting costs through DIY printing has transformed into a bustling print shop, showcasing Matt’s dedication to the craft.
His journey kicked off in 2021 during the COVID pandemic, armed with a blue press purchased from eBay. After successfully printing thousands of garments on a single pallet press, he made the leap to a more advanced 6/4 manual press and a state-of-the-art flash dryer. Today, Heaps Good Merch is a small yet dynamic operation that produces thousands of hand-printed items, reflecting Matt’s commitment to quality and craftsmanship in every piece.
About Matt
List 3 things about yourself – fun facts, hobbies, pets or interests
- Building and riding motorcycles
- Dogs with beards
- Family and community
Describe your screen printing journey. How and when did you get started and what has been your biggest learning experience?
I started a small clothing brand in 2021 while I had time off in the COVID lockdowns and was outsourcing all my print work, trying to be the money savvy tight ass I am I looked into what’s involved in screen printing, bought a blue eBay press, exposure unit, set up in the garage and now we are here! My biggest learning experience would have to be learning seps.
Tell us about your proudest screen printing project. What made it special and what did you learn from it?
I’d have to say my first sim process job from seps to print, spending days on getting it just right and lifting the screen on that last colour to see that final result. To this day I still love that feeling of just nailing a print!
Industry
What are your thoughts on the current trends in screen printing? Do you see any emerging styles or techniques that excite you?
Seeing a lot of sim process old school washed out 90’s inspired graphics which is so cool to see make a comeback!
Also seeing a lot of puff which I hope dies a quick and painful death.
What role does the online community play in your screen printing practice? How do you connect with other printers and share knowledge?
It plays a huge role for me personally, I’ve tried to stay in regular contact with other shop owners who’s goals are aligned with mine and we have a similar vibe. We have a group chat for shooting the shit, asking questions and pumping each other up, not only as shop owners but also as Men, finding an outlet to laugh, whinge, cry or just talk about anything is super important.
Shop Floor
What your most treasured product or piece of equipment on the floor that has made your life easier as a printer? Why?
I’d have to say my press and TAS flash, still only running a 6/4 manual press but coming from an eBay 4/1 printing thousands of shirts on a single platen and wheeling my infrared flash over every print…. Looking back now I’m not sure how I continued through that but I’m super grateful as it gave me resilience and taught me a lot.
What is on your wish list for your shop floor this year?
Looking at upgrading our exposure unit and also dipping out toes in embroidery.
Advice
What advice would you give to aspiring screen printers? What are the essential skills and qualities for success in this field?
- Do your research, understand the different print methods, watch as many YouTube videos as you can consume, ask questions, join forums, basically live and breathe screen printing if you want a career in it, especially if you want to own your own shop.
- Also build a strong social media presence and community, you want customers to buy in to your brand and feel like part of that community.
Bonus
What’s your go-to playlist for a productive printing session?
Usually a true crime podcast or when I’m not feeling that an audiobook
Conclusion
In conclusion, Matt Dixon’s story with Heaps Good Merch is a testament to resilience and passion in the screen printing industry. From humble beginnings with a blue eBay press during the COVID pandemic to running a thriving print shop in Queensland, Matt has demonstrated how dedication and a willingness to learn can transform a simple idea into a successful business.
His journey highlights the importance of community, continuous learning, and adaptability in the face of challenges. As Matt continues to innovate and expand, his story serves as an inspiration to aspiring screen printers and entrepreneurs alike, proving that with hard work and a supportive network, success is within reach.
Written by the Jones Brothers Printechnology Team in collaboration with Matt Dixon, Owner of Heaps Good Merch.
