From Invisible Inks to Baseball Bats: The World of UV Printing with Lon Riley, DPI Laboratory

Step into the world of UV printing with Lon Riley, founder of DPI Laboratory, as he reveals how this rapidly evolving technology is transforming personalization across industries. Unlike traditional printing methods, UV printing instantly cures ink with ultraviolet light, making products immediately ready for handling or shipping—a game-changer for on-demand production.

What began as a specialty ink company has evolved into a full-service printing solution provider, with DPI Laboratory now offering two printer models tailored to different market needs. The compact Catalyst Nanos delivers professional-grade UV printing at an accessible price point for small businesses, while the larger Catalyst Aventra, with its triple printhead configuration, satisfies high-volume production demands with sophisticated white ink and varnish capabilities.

The true magic of UV printing lies in its remarkable versatility. Photographers can expand beyond traditional prints to offer images on virtually any surface. Promotional product businesses can deliver everything from personalized golf balls to custom tumblers. Event venues can even bring printers on-site for real-time merchandise customization. As Riley explains, “You can produce a very high-quality photo at two feet by three feet, or you can put a face on a Lego minifigure.”

From sports memorabilia with game dates and scores to concert merchandise created on demand, consumers increasingly seek personalized products that transform branded items into meaningful keepsakes. With exceptional print quality, improved durability, and sophisticated workflow integration, UV printing is positioned to meet this demand while opening new revenue streams for businesses across multiple industries.