PIA MidAmerica’s Graphic Excellence Competition (GraphEx) was created in 1989 to recognize the outstanding abilities of print producers to transform paper and ink into outstanding forms of communication. Since the industry is comprised of very diverse companies, the competition has over 300 categories in three different divisions. The categories reflect products such as: annual reports, brochures, letterheads, newsletters, direct marketing, presentation folders, cross media campaigns, and much, much more. Divisions are determined by size of firm. Division I – Small Firm (1-20 employees); Division II – Medium Firm (21-100 employees); and Division III – Large Firm (101+ employees).
GRAPHEX AWARDS 2025
CONGRATULATIONS!
PIA MidAmerica hosts the annual Graphic Excellence Awards (GraphEx) competition to recognize our industry’s outstanding technical achievements in innovation and print production. Hundreds of entries are submitted each year in an array of categories including brochures, magazines, calendars, campaigns, packaging and much more. Our independent judges select extraordinary pieces in the competition to be recognized for Best of Show, Best of Division, Specialty, Best of Category awards and Awards of Recognition.
In addition, we want to recognize businesses and technical professionals who make up one of the industry’s largest regional trade associations in the United States. These professionals and award-winning companies demonstrate outstanding technical capabilities in print and finishing techniques. Distinguished industry leaders are recognized with Print Champion, and Executive of the Year honors as well as our professionals of the year. Join me in congratulating all the winners on their outstanding contributions that have made a positive impact on our region.
2025 EXECUTIVES OF THE YEAR
2025 EXECUTIVE KS/MO
Jim Ferguson
Jim Ferguson, a Kansas State University graduate with a Marketing degree, began his career at Johnson & Johnson in Springfield, Missouri, before he and his wife, Jane, purchased a Kwik Kopy Printing franchise in 1985. Their Overland Park business quickly became a top sales center, earning them recognition as the system’s number one sales leader. During 25 years with Kwik Kopy, Jim served on the President’s Council, led training seminars, consulted franchise owners, chaired an Annual Conference, and was honored alongside Jane as Man and Woman of the Year. In 2005, they moved their business to Lenexa, and after their franchise contract ended in 2010, they rebranded as J&J Printing. In 2013, J&J Printing merged with Tangent Press, growing into an award-winning small commercial printer, earning accolades like the prestigious Benny Award. Throughout his career, Jim has exemplified dedication to family, a passion for learning, and a commitment to innovation, continuously embracing new programs and systems to drive success.
2025 EXECUTIVE OK/TX
Don Denny
Don Denny is the Owner and President of Slate Group, a national printing company based in Texas. He’s been with the company since 1993, starting as a delivery driver and working his way through production and sales–by 2017, Don became the sole owner. Now, with over 30 years of experience and leadership, he has helped Slate Group grow into a nationally recognized print partner, known for delivering innovative services and building lasting partnerships. He has a simple business philosophy–the harder I work, the luckier I get. Don believes in working hard, leading by example, and investing back into the company; he is proud of the work Slate Group does and loves to show off his business and hardworking employees. He will do everything in his power to make sure his people are taken care of. Outside of work, Don and his wife, Wendy, love to spend their time raising and showing cattle with their son, Dylan. An activity that reflects his dedication to both personal and professional endeavors.
2025 PROFESSIONALS OF THE YEAR
2025 PRINT CHAMPION KS/MO
Cara Windsor
Harvest Graphics
With more than 25 years of expertise in print and graphic arts, Cara Windsor has built a career defined by creativity, problem-solving, and a deep commitment to her clients. As an Account Executive at Harvest Graphics, she goes beyond selling print—she acts as a trusted advisor, helping Marketing Directors, Art Directors, and business leaders navigate the complexities of print-focused marketing campaigns. Her expertise spans direct mail, commercial print, large-format printing, and cross-channel campaigns, ensuring her clients achieve impactful and results-driven communication strategies. A graduate of UMKC with a degree in Graphic Arts, Cara has remained a dedicated advocate for the industry, giving back through her involvement in professional organizations. She currently serves on PIA MidAmerica’s GraphEx Awards Gala and Golf Tournament committees and is a past board member of the KCDMA. Cara’s passion for print is matched only by her passion for people. She takes pride in building lasting relationships and uncovering innovative solutions to meet her clients’ unique challenges. Her ability to blend strategic thinking with hands-on industry knowledge makes her a true Print Champion.
2025 PRINT CHAMPION OK/TX
Andy & Julie Plata
OutputLinks Communications Group
Andy and Julie Plata have dedicated their careers to advancing the print industry through innovation, leadership, and advocacy. As pioneers in digital print technology, they founded COPI in 1977, positioning it at the forefront of digital print adoption and helping suppliers, OEMs, and print providers worldwide. Their commitment to preserving industry knowledge led them to rescue American Printer in 2011, ensuring the 144-year-old publication remains a vital resource focused on the business of print. Beyond publishing, they have championed education through endowed scholarships, mentorship programs, and advisory roles with the University of Houston Digital Media Program, fostering the next generation of print professionals. As co-CEOs of OutputLinks Communications Group, they continue to influence the industry’s evolution, bridging the gap between print’s legacy and future. Their contributions have left a lasting impact on the industry, earning them widespread respect and recognition. While their professional achievements are remarkable, they find their greatest joy in art, books, travel, and spending time with their four children and
five grandchildren.
2025 CUSTOMER SERVICE PROFESSIONAL KS/MO
Jessica Lynch
Modern Litho
“Jessica’s role as a team lead has been instrumental in driving our customer service department’s success. She consistently demonstrates exemplary leadership qualities, fostering a supportive and collaborative work environment where team members feel empowered to excel. Under her guidance, her team has achieved remarkable results delivering exceptional service to our customers.”
2025 CUSTOMER SERVICE PROFESSIONAL OK/TX
Jana Blalock
Blanks Printing & Digital Solutions
“Jana goes above and beyond on everything she does. Her attention to detail is second to none. We constantly have customers that thank her for all of her detailed information and questions on every job. Her attitude and friendly demeanor makes her a pleasure to work with for the sales staff as well as our customers.”
2025 PRODUCTION PROFESSIONAL KS/MO
Lucretia Mason
Summit Litho Inc.
“Since 1981 Lucretia “Luc” has been in the Prepress/Printing Industry. She has seen an unbelievable transformation in the way the industry works and the technology used. Having someone like Luc on the front end of our production cycle helps make sure all jobs get the best chance possible to start on the right track and finish on-time and right. Getting It Done and Done Right is not just something Luc says, its something she works to do every day.”
2025 PRODUCTION PROFESSIONAL OK/TX
Gloria “Glo” Galvan
Simon Printing Company
“This past year, Glo was instrumental in setting up and implementing a new, much more complicated perfect binding system. She pioneered all operating procedures, and always has an eye on quality control and process improvement. She is a great asset to Simon Printing Company and a true production professional in every sense of the word!”
2025 YOUNG SUPPLIER PROFESSIONAL KS/MO
Carson Shaefer
Clampitt Paper
“Carson has been an integral part of the unprecedented growth of Clampitt KC. His contributions in gaining additional sales as well as assisting in setting up infrastructure of sales support to ensure continued growth.”
2025 YOUNG PROFESSIONAL OK/TX
Michael Seward
Integ
“As a supervisor Mike is fair, considerate and a champion for those under his supervision. As a production manager he is efficient, organized and able to schedule projects so that everything is done on time. As a person, he is the most considerate person — always taking the time to help when he can and always supporting any ideas or suggestion put in front of him.”
2025 YOUNG PRINT PROFESSIONAL KS/MO
Amanda Nelson
Single Source Printing
“A true leader with a giving attitude, Amanda embodies the spirit of collaboration and mentorship. She generously shares her knowledge and expertise, ensuring that those around her have the tools and resources necessary to succeed. Her dedication to promoting, growing, and sustaining the print industry is evident in her active participation in industry initiatives, associations, and mentorship programs.”
2025 OUTSTANDING BINDERY MANAGEMENT TEAM OK/TX
Socorro (Coco) Lopez
Mike Sparks
Brodnax 21C Printers
“Mike Sparks and Coco Lopez have buttoned up the workflow in the finishing department of Brodnax. They have worked to cross-train employees between pieces of equipment that has successfully reduced the overtime / regular time %. They have increased our overall moral by proving themselves dependable when deadlines are tossed their way.”
2025 OUTSTANDING TEAM KS/MO
Jeff Canterbury
Mitchell Canseco
Joe Casey
Bryan Daniels
Chuck Marksbury
Jason Ohern
Anthony Russo
Brian Stocstill
Shawn Wheeler
Ken Whisler
NextPage
“I want to give a shout out to NextPage’s Offset Press Team. 2024 was a tough year with a fire that took out our 8 color Komori Press. The team adjusted their lives to help fill the gap and deliver for our clients. They worked together and delivered on our core values of Driven, Versatile, Protective and Kind.”
2025 OUTSTANDING PRODUCTION TEAM OK/TX
Adrian Deluna
Simone Keuhn
Lee Ortiz
Oscar Rivera
Jennifer Santoy
Abigail Trejos
Tori Wheeler
Pflugerville ISD
Copy Center
“Everyone works well together and knows what works/ doesn’t work when it comes to getting their job done. My team demonstrates DAILY that they work great as a team to effectively accomplish and exceed daily goals to help the district with all of its printing needs. They work as one unit to get the job done and each take their responsibilities equally as important, just as they would if they were in an authority position.”
2025 HUMAN RESOURCES PROFESSIONAL KS/MO
Allison Schimelpfenig
Walsworth
“Allison’s vision and dedication have shaped multiple programs that ensure a consistent pipeline of exceptional candidates for Walsworth. She leads our college recruitment efforts with precision and passion, cultivating strong partnerships with key schools and universities to meet our company’s critical hiring needs.”
2025 EDUCATOR PROFESSIONAL KS/MO
Brian Merriman
MidAmerica Nazarene
“Throughout his career—both as a print professional and now as an educator—Brian has been a patient mentor and passionate advocate for the craft of print. At MidAmerica Nazarene University, he brings real-world expertise into the classroom, fostering technical skill, critical thinking, and confidence in his students.”
2025 PREPRESS PROFESSIONAL KS/MO
Meagan Saye
Sun Graphics
“Sun’s prepress department consists of only 2 employees. Meagan stepped up and shouldered the full load until a 2nd person could be hired. We switched to a new prepress workflow during 2024 adding to the workload – learning the new flow, proofing calibration software, etc. She also checks our most complex multi-part layouts to ensure accuracy and minimize waste with zero errors.”
2025 PROJECT MANAGER PROFESSIONAL KS/MO
Amanda Catherell
AlphaGraphics Downtown KC
“Amanda is dedicated to her customers and AlphaGraphics Kansas City. She provides excellent customer and seeks to understand the customers needs and wants. We regularly have feedback from customers that rave about Amanda. They tell us that they love working with her! She is described as, “incredible, fantastic, wonderful, helpful, and a great communicator”.
BEST OF SHOW
PLATINUM
ColorMark
TX Gulf Coast By David H. Gibson
Accordion-style book printed on a Heidelberg 640 press using 100# Polar Bear Velvet Cover and 98 Pt. Grey Graphic Board. Side one features double black duotones using separate plates for solid backgrounds, while side two showcases 4-color process images with double black plates for rich black solids. Panels are 6.375” and seamed twice to create a 114.75” x 16” fold.
GOLD
Brodnax 21C Printers
Zoo Ball Invites
Invitation suite printed 4-color process on a Heidelberg CD102-6L press. The holder is printed on 100# Classic Crest Solar White Smooth Cover, the invite on 80# Classic Crest Solar White Linen Cover, the envelope on 100# Classic Crest Solar White Smooth Cover, and the label on 80# Classic Crest Epic Black Smooth Text. Finishing includes scoring, laser die-cutting, foil stamping in two colors across four locations, lamination, envelope conversion, adhesive application, and final assembly.
SILVER
LARGEPRINTING.com
Encyclopedia Printanica Volume 1
Marketing box mailer showcasing large-format printing capabilities, substrates, and trade show products. Designed and printed in-house, the box features curated samples highlighting premium materials. Produced on an Agfa Jeti Tauro hybrid digital color printer with 6-color plus white UV ink, then digitally cut on a Kongsberg C-64 and Kern Optiflex Laser Cutter. Assembled with inserts and a substrate catalog for a comprehensive presentation.
BRONZE
MetroVCS
HKS Mandarin Hotel Items
Booklet printed digitally on HP Indigo press. The cover is printed on 130# Colorplan Pale Gray Cover and foil stamped using PG 100/PG490. The text pages are printed on 100# Mohawk Superfine Ultra White. Perfect bound, trimmed on three sides to final size, and shrink-wrapped for packaging.
BEST OF KANSAS / MISSOURI
PLATINUM
Modern Litho
Magic Live 2024 Piece
Saddle-stitched booklet printed offset on Heidelberg XL106 & SM52 presses. Produced on 100 lb. Endurance Silk Cover with 4/4 printing and dull aqueous coating, and 100 lb. Endurance Silk Book for the interior. Die-cut on a Kluge die cutter, folded on an MBO folder, and finished with a Stahl stitcher.
GOLD
J&J Printing
Domtar/Cougar – Paper Trails Vol. 2 – Get the Feeling Right
Perfect-bound book featuring french fold signatures and a varnish touch plate of orange, showcasing the versatility of Cougar Papers. Printed on a Ryobi 750G LED UV press using 130# Cougar White Super Smooth Cover, 80# Cougar White Smooth Cover, 100# Cougar White Super Smooth Text, 80# Cougar White Vellum Text & 100# Cougar White Smooth Text. It is enhanced with embossing, spot gloss and spot grit UV by BrightMARKS. It incorporates an accordion-fold insert, gate-fold back cover, die-cut and PUR binding for seamless precision.
SILVER
Varsity Yearbook
Hands of the Artist
Smyth-sewn hardcover book printed offset on a Heidelberg XL 106 press. Produced using 80# Anthem Gloss for text, 95# Sterling C1S for inserts, and 65# Lynx Opaque Ultra Cover.
BRONZE
Trabon
AIGA Gala Programs
80-page gala program printed digitally on an HP Indigo press. The cover is printed on 120# Endurance Silk Cover with soft-touch lamination, while the interior pages are on 80# Endurance Silk Text. Perfect bound and laminated by KBB for a refined and durable finish.
BEST OF GULF COAST
PLATINUM
Bayside Printing
Kaleidoscope Ball Invitation Package
Invitation suite printed 4-color process on a 20” Heidelberg Speedmaster 4-color sheet-fed press. The invitation cover is printed on 100# Accent Opaque Cover, with a 4-page interior on 100# Accent Opaque Text. The reply card is printed on 100# Accent Opaque Cover, and the reply envelope is produced on 60# Accent Opaque White Smooth A7 stock. Die-cutting and scoring were completed on a Heidelberg cylinder letterpress, with a Kwik Kut steel rule die.
GOLD
1to1printers
Water Whips, Sanctuary Tunnel
Large-scale fine art window installation featuring 19 individually shaped, double-sided art pieces printed on 3M 40C Clear Vinyl. The original artwork, digitally manipulated in Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator, was printed using a Canon Colorado M Series with CMYK + White ink and precision cut on a Colex Router. Installed on 90-inch round windows along a 321-foot span, the display creates an immersive aquarium-like experience for visitors to enjoy. The art is credited to Janavi Mahimtura Folmsbee.
SILVER
Simon Printing
Little Shifts Circular Holiday Card
Holiday and planning instrument designed for an annual meeting, serving as both a review tool and organizational guide. Digitally printed on a Ricoh 9210 press using 110# Fluorescent White Cover. Finishing includes precision cutting and drill punching by Embossed Creations. Paper supplied by Lindenmeyer Munroe.
BRONZE
Absolute Color Mailplex
Fertitta Entertainment Calendar Catalog
A 32-page calendar booklet highlighting hospitality venues under the Fertitta Entertainment umbrella. Printed on a Komori Lithrone S40P 10-Color Offset Press. The cover, produced on 111# Vellum Cover, features PMS Silver ink with soft-touch AQ and embossed Rose Gold foil. Interior pages are printed 4-color process on 100lb Gloss Text with dull AQ coating.
BEST OF HILL COUNTRY & HIGH PLAINS
PLATINUM
Accu-Print
San Antonio Zoo Ball Invitation
Gate-fold invitation (18” x 9” flat, 9” x 9” folded) printed in full color with duplex printing and bleed, paired with a 9.5” x 9.5” envelope. Glama Natural belly band (19.25” x 3.125”) with personalized addressing wraps around the envelope. Includes a full-color, duplex-printed wine card/RSVP (4.125” x 5.5”) and Zoo Ball envelope flap labels.
GOLD
Capital Printing
Civil Rights Program
Saddle-stitched 28-page booklet plus cover, finished to 7” x 10”. The back cover is printed in black with gold foil stamping on the front and maximizes white space on 130# Classic Crest Smooth Solar White Cover and scored for a refined finish. The interior pages are printed 4-color process plus PMS Metallic Gold 871 on 100# Classic Crest Smooth Solar White Text with full bleed. Completed with folding, trimming and saddle stitching.
SILVER
Litho Press
“A Girl Named Mithra”
Case-bound children’s publication printed on a Ryobi 970 UV 4-Color Press. The text is printed on 100# Silk Text with 100# Silk Cover end sheets. Case bound by Universal Bookbindery, ensuring durability and a premium finish.
BRONZE
Fused Graphics Group
Equibrand Spiral Bound Catalog
Spiral-bound publication printed on a Heidelberg SM102 8-Color 40” Perfecting Press. The cover is printed on 120# Endurance Gloss Cover with flood lamination and foil stamping, while the text is printed on 60# Endurance Gloss Text using Sunlit Legend Traditional Offset Inks. Foil stamping by Sarchet Printing Company and spiral binding by C&R Bindery complete the finishing.
DIVISION I
PLATINUM
Vahalla Studios
Sessanta Bonner Springs
24” x 36” screen-printed poster showcasing high-fidelity detail and precise registration. Printed using an M&R Saturn poster press in six colors on 100# Cougar Smooth White Cover. Special attention was given to aligning stroke-within-stroke borders and type for exceptional clarity and precision.
GOLD
The Boxman
Lancome Holiday Display
Custom packaging featuring multiple cut-score boxes wrapped, laminated, and foil-stamped. Attached to a .25” vinyl-wrapped and router-cut acrylic artwork. Produced using 100# gloss book stock with 1.2 mil matte lamination and UEI foils. Precision cutting and finishing achieved through die-cutting and Zünd technology.
SILVER
OptiGraphics
Rippaverse Comics Special 2024 Edition 10 Card Oversized 3D Lenticular Set
Trading card set, produced using a 28” x 40” UV offset KBA press. The artwork was processed through Human Eye’s software to create a deep 3D illusion. Printed on Spartech 100 LPI 22.5 mil super deep 3D lens with UV offset inks from TOPCO, the backs were laminated with 8 pt. C1S Tango paper. Flatbed trimmers ensured precise cutting, and sets were collated by hand.
BRONZE
1to1printers LLC
TRASH BASH Brick Wall
Large-format wall graphic measuring 28’ x 18’, printed on 2 mil. vinyl. Produced using an HP Latex 700 printer with latex ink, the vinyl was heat-installed onto a brick wall for a seamless and durable application.
DIVISION II
PLATINUM
Simon Printing
UT – Our Tower – Over 100 Years
Case-bound book digitally printed in-house using Ricoh 9210 and Xerox Iridesse presses. The cover is produced on 80# Cundance Felt Cover, featuring a fabric-wrapped case binding with embossed leather tag. Interior pages are printed 4-color process on 100# coated cover, calibrated and aligned for precision laser cutting. Finishing includes embossing by Embossed Creations and case binding by Texas Bindery Services.
GOLD
ColorMark
Perennials Wallcoverings By David Sutherland Inc.
A 40-page perfect-bound catalog showcases premium wallcoverings with exceptional print quality. Offset printed on a 640 Heidelberg LED press, the interior features 4-color process on 100# Mohawk Coolwhite Smooth Text for crisp detail. The cover, printed 4cp + PMS Green on 100# Mohawk Coolwhite Smooth Cover, is enhanced with foil stamping and a tri-mount cover. Finished with perfect binding by C&R Bindery for a refined and durable presentation.
SILVER
LARGEPRINTING.com
Conroy’s Public House – Stained Glass Window Transformation
Stained-glass-style window graphics printed on ViziPrint using an Agfa Jeti Tauro hybrid digital color printer with 6-color plus white UV ink. The Tauro printer enhanced black density to mimic traditional lead seams. Cut with a Kongsberg C-64 digital cutter, the graphics provide a secure yet repositionable installation, blending heritage with modern design.
BRONZE
Kingston
Time to Celebrate!
Welcome kit printed on Lynx cover and text using a Komori press with a 5-color process, including PMS 293. The kit includes a flag, stickers, and university information, strategically crafted to stand out in a competitive landscape.
DIVISION III
PLATINUM
Brodnax 21C Printers
75th Anniversary Picture Book
Hardcover book featuring 384 pages, printed 4-color process on a Heidelberg CD102-6L press. The interior is printed on 100# Cougar Opaque Smooth Text and folded to 11.5” x 11.5”. The cover, with no print, includes debossing and white foil on 80# Classic Crest Eggshell Epic Black. Smyth sewn and case bound.
PLATINUM
Brodnax 21C Printers
Blair Horses Hunters & Jumpers
Softcover book printed 4-color process on a Landa Nanographic Printing Press S10P. The cover, produced on 91# Colorplan Text Lochwood Green, features foil stamping with no print. The 64-page interior is printed on 80# Mohawk Via Vellum Text Cool White and folded to 11” x 13.75”.
GOLD
NextPage
KC Symphony Michael Stern Reversible Book
Casebound book printed on 100# gloss text using a Komori Lithrone G40P 40” press. Features soft-touch lamination applied on an Autobond high-speed laminator and digital gloss UV via an MGI JetVarnish 3D Evolution. Designed with Walz Tetrick using a unique reverse orientation highlighting key themes and conductor notes. Sewn binding with a sleek black silk ribbon, produced using Kolbus and Muller Martini equipment.
SILVER
Slate Group
The Printing Express
Self-promotional package showcasing in-house capabilities. Printed on a Komori GL540 UV/LED press and AGFA Tauro flatbed printer using specialty papers. Features foil stamping, die-cutting, and a tear-strip box, with finishing on a Kluge APEX Foil Press and Heidelberg Cylinder Letterpress.
BRONZE
ColorDynamics
Perennials – Luxury Performance Rugs Catalog 2024
A 136-page perfect-bound rug catalog showcasing high-performance textiles. Printed UV offset on a Heidelberg 840P press in four-color process for vibrant clarity. Features a 100# Classic Crest Eggshell Solar White cover and 80# text, with binding by C&R Binding for a refined finish.
BEST OF INNOVATION KANSAS / MISSOURI
PLATINUM
C K Print & Design
Max Metal Printed Faux Retaining Wall
Faux retaining wall created using 3mm MaxMetal panels printed on a Konica Minolta AccurioWide 200 with CMYK UV inks. High-resolution printing captures intricate details for a realistic stone-like appearance. Panels were securely installed with Liquid Nails adhesive for a seamless, durable finish, combining advanced printing technology with durable composite materials.
GOLD
NextPage
Hokusai Info Desk Graphics
Removable wall and desk graphics printed on GF 226 WALLMARK Removable 6 mil vinyl using a Canon Colorado 1650 UV Gel printer. Precision cut on a Zund 2500 cutter for a clean and professional finish. Designed for easy application and removal without damage.
SILVER
Walsworth
Arrived Guestbook – Arizona
Case-bound book produced using an offset printing process. The text block underwent CTP, press printing, folding, collating, sewing, binding, and casing-in. The cover was printed 4-color process, laminated, die-cut on a Brausse cutter, case-made, and embossed for a refined finish. Endsheets printed single-color for a seamless interior design.
BRONZE
C K Print & Design
Black Cat Mfg T-Shirt
Full-color custom T-shirt printed using a ColorDrop M5 Direct-to-Film (DTF) printer with CMYK and White ink on ColorDrop film. The design was transferred onto a Hanes T-shirt using a Kilo Heat Press, ensuring vibrant detail, smooth gradients, and excellent durability. The final product offers a soft feel, rich color saturation, and strong wash resistance.
BEST OF INNOVATION OKLAHOMA / TEXAS
PLATINUM
The Boxman
Birthday Invitation
Invitation designed to replicate a musical amplifier, featuring functional sound knobs, an on/off switch with a working light, and foam cavities for the invitation and a Bluetooth speaker behind the speaker door. Produced using black soft-touch Mano with die-cutting, foil stamping, and UEI foils and dies. Incorporates batteries and electrical components for an interactive experience.
GOLD
OptiGraphics
Cabaret The Kit Kat Club featuring Adam Lambert
Large-format lenticular signage printed on a 48” x 72” 40 LPI, 33 mil. thick flexible PETG lens using an Epson large-format flatbed printer. The high-resolution 300 DPI print includes four hits of white for opacity, allowing vibrant colors and seamless lightbox display. Unique three-image movement was achieved, a rare feat in lenticular printing.
SILVER
OptiGraphics
Taylor Swift Disney VIP Ticket
VIP concert tickets produced using Scodix liquid foil technology. Printed on 14 pt. C2S Tango paper with four-color process on an HP digital press, the tickets feature variable-imaged silver-to-black foil for sections, rows, and seats. Scodix foil enhancements provided a premium finish without traditional foil stamping, delivering a visually striking and highly collectible design.
BRONZE
Brodnax 21C Printers
2024 Brodnax Capacity Pocket Folder with Magnet
Custom 9” x 12” pocket folder printed on 120# Accent Opaque Smooth Cover using a Heidelberg CD102-6L press. Features two side pockets, a center pocket with business card slits, and a magnetic closure. Soft-touch laminated with Scodix raised spot UV. Printed in two passes with vibrant UV inks. Die-cut by Performance Specialty Service and finished in-house.
SPECIALTY AWARDS KANSAS / MISSOURI
BEST USE OF PAPER
Alpine Litho-Graphics
UMKC “2024 Crescendo” Invitation suite
Invitation suite printed 4-color process on an HP Indigo 7800 press. Produced on Classic Crest Cover with a Petallics square envelope, supplied by Midland Paper. Designed for a premium presentation with high-quality digital printing.
BEST USE OF INK
C K Print & Design
Parade of Arts Sign
Dye sublimation sign printed on .032 white sublimation aluminum using CMYK ink on an Epson SureColor SC-F6330 printer. The sublimation process infuses ink directly into the aluminum, ensuring a scratch-resistant, fade-resistant, and weatherproof finish. Designed for vibrant color reproduction and durability, making it ideal for promotional displays and events.
JUDGES’ CHOICE
AlphaGraphics Downtown KC
Superior Bowen Legacy Wall
Custom conference room wall installation showcasing a 75-year company history. The year-long project included digitizing images, researching documentation, and designing a display for memorabilia and branding. Produced using HP 5500 and Colex Sharp Cut, the installation features non-glare acrylic, black acrylic, PVC prints, cut vinyl, dimensional logos, and routed poly. Comprising over 100 individual components, the final installation was completed over two days.
BEST USE OF SUBSTRATE
C K Print & Design
Virgin Voyages x Ommegang Collaboration Label
Craft beer label printed on metallic BOPP with a PET liner using an HP Indigo 6900 digital press. A white base layer controls opacity, allowing selective metallic shine. CMYK inks create bold contrast, while matte lamination enhances durability and provides a refined finish. The result is a sleek, high-end label that captures the adventurous spirit of the brand.
BEST OF EMBELLISHMENT
Johnson County Print Shop
Some Enchanted Evening
Invitation printed on black Touche cover stock from Neenah using white and gold ink on the Arizona 1380 GT flatbed. Text pages printed 4/4 on 100# Cougar text using the Xerox Iridesse. Finishing includes production on the Plockmatic Pro 450. Project printed 2-up on cover and 8-up on text sheets, with a combination of digital toner and inkjet embellishment techniques for an elevated tactile and visual impact.
BEST OF PREPRESS
AlphaGraphics Downtown KC
Drawing the Human Form, by William A. Berry
Book printed on a Ricoh 7500 press using 100# White Blazer Digital Satin Text with an 80# gloss text cover, finished with soft-touch lamination. Extensive color matching was performed to accurately reproduce original drawings and paintings. Smyth sewn and case bound with foil stamping by HF Group. Paper supplied by Clampitt.
BEST OF FINISHING
Modern Litho
Lyric Invitation Package
Invitation package digitally printed on a Ricoh 9210 and Ijet envelope printer, with cylinder die-cutting. Printed on 80lb Royal Sundance Brilliant White Felt Text and Cover, including A7 and A10 envelopes on matching stock. Hand folded and packaged for delivery.
BEST OF BINDING
Modern Litho
Briar & Co. Information Packet
Saddle-stitched booklet printed offset on a Heidelberg XL106 8-color perfector. The cover is produced on 80lb Cougar Smooth Cover with 4/4 printing and soft-touch aqueous coating, while the interior is printed on 100lb Endurance Silk Cover 4/4. Finishing includes foil stamping, die-cutting on a Bobst die cutter, and stitching on a Bravo Stitcher.
FINE DETAIL MULTI FOIL EXECUTION LAYERS
Posty Cards
A2900G Birthday Icons
Elegant birthday card printed 1/0 on a Ricoh Pro C9210 press. Produced on 100lb Cougar Natural Cover with Vanson VOC-free, soy-based ink. Features dual foil embossing on a Heidelberg Windmill press and precision scoring on a Duplo 646 for a refined finish.
DIMENSIONAL PRINT & TACTILE EFECTS
Gill Studios Inc.
Past Grand Officer
Screen-printed decal with six colors, cold embossing, and doming. Printed on chrome polyester with permanent adhesive using UV-cured screen ink. Produced with a Cylinder General Press, die-cut on a Zund and Heidelberg diecutter, and finished with doming via Demak equipment.
BEST SPECIAL EFFECT
Vahalla Studios
Foo Fighters, Hershey Park
18” x 24” screen-printed poster produced on glitter foil stock using an M&R Saturn poster press. Printed with seven colors of opaque inks to create spot color and gradient effects while showcasing the glitter pattern. Printed on Tango coated stock with holographic glitter from Exceptional Papers, representing Mainline Printing’s specialty materials.
SPECIALTY AWARDS OKLAHOMA / TEXAS
BEST USE OF PAPER
MetroVCS
MF Creative Designs Huddleston Wedding
Elegant invitation suite printed on Mohawk Superfine White Eggshell Cover and Colorplan Stone Cover using letterpress, foil stamping, and embossing. The invitation features PMS 644U letterpress text, MS142 foil stamping, and a blind-embossed floral design. Additional pieces include a details card, rehearsal dinner card, and welcome party card, all finished with letterpress, foil, and digital printing. A9 envelopes are foil stamped and digitally printed.
BEST OF INK
Jarvis Press
Alfa Romeo Welcome Kit
Tri-fold envelope package featuring an address card, radius die-cut panel, and a kiss-cut sticker sheet. Printed on HP12000 and Komori presses. The envelope is 80# Gloss Text with 4-color process and Soft Touch UV. The address card and tri-fold are printed 4/4 on 65# Gloss Cover. The sticker sheet is 3.5 mil. removable vinyl, printed 4-color process with PMS and UV Clear. Envelopes by RRD Pittsburgh. Paper supplied by Clampitt Paper.
JUDGES’ CHOICE
Impact Stamping
WOVEN HONOR
Custom turned-edge rigid box with velvet insert, printed digitally on an HP Indigo press. Features include soft-touch lamination, digital foil, and spot UV embellishments. Produced using a GBC laminator and Scodix for finishing. Printed on 100# gloss text.
BEST OF PACKAGING
Impact Stamping
FATSU ICONIC
Magnetic enclosed turned-edge rigid box with sleeve, featuring digital print, foil stamping, spot UV, and soft-touch lamination. Printed on an HP Indigo press with finishing enhancements using Scodix, GBC laminator, die-cutting, and conversion. Constructed with 100# gloss text and cover sheets for a premium presentation.
BEST USE OF SUBSTRATE
SixB Labels
Churtars Candy Labels
Self-promotion piece showcasing label samples produced on the Epson SurePress L-6534 VW. This press enhances labels with matte or gloss varnish for added sheen and texture. Printed on Silver BOPP from Spinnaker using Epson digital toner. Die-cut with GM equipment and a mag die from Rotometrics.
BEST COLLABORATION
Blanks Printing and Digital Solutions
Dallas Theological Seminary Centennial Celebration Campaign
Print series featuring a save-the-date, banquet information, and two hardcover books in a custom hard case sleeve. Printed on Heidelberg CD102 and HP 7900 presses with UV printing, soft-touch, gold foil, debossing, and a foil-stamped magnet. Produced on 120# McCoy Silk Cover and 100# Bilt Satin Cover and Text, with finishing by RegisterMarks, C&R Bindery, and Impact Stamping.
BEST OF EMBELLISHMENT
Impact Stamping
TCU FINE ARTS GALA
Invitation printed on Lessebo Colours Aubergine 81# text sheet using white ink and gold film lamination. Features foil stamping on acrylic and traditional foil stamping for an elegant finish. Produced on HP Indigo press with laser cutting, Kluge foil stamping, GBC lamination, and specialized packaging conversion.
BEST OF PREPRESS
SixB Labels
Vibrant Living – Inner Radiance
Labels were produced on a Mark Andy Digital Pro 3 press. Printed on Fasson White BOPP #78333 with a self-wound laminate from QSPAC, the labels were designed for durability and aesthetic appeal. Existing tooling was utilized to optimize cost efficiency, while multiple proofs ensured a final design that met the client’s expectations.
BEST OF FINISHING
MetroVCS
Neiman Marcus Awards Collateral
Awards collateral piece produced on 222# Gmund Colors Matt 49 Wedding Invite stock, final size 6.5” x 12”. Features foil stamping with Luxor Matte 417, engraving with PMS 1817 ink, front embossing, gold edge painting, and 2-ply mounting. Dies by Batchelor, UEI, and Owosso.
BEST OF BINDING
MetroVCS
Mous Studio Lookbook
Lookbook printed digitally on HP Indigo press. The cover is printed 4/4 on 100# Mohawk Superfine Ultra White Smooth Cover, with text pages on 100# Mohawk Superfine Ultra White Smooth Text. Sewn binding for durability and finished with collation.
FINE DETAIL REVERSE PRINT EXECUTION
Spartan Printing & Packaging
Oroma 4 Pack Folding Carton
Folding carton printed on 20pt C1S SBS using a Komori GL-540 press. Finished with 4-color process and spot gloss UV coating for added contrast and visual appeal.
BEST SPECIAL EFFECT
OptiGraphics
Score Football Box Set 60 Cards
A 60-card Score Football set using patented lenticular technology printed on an 18 mil. 75 LPI PE TG lens with a 14 pt. C2S Tango paper backer, the cards were produced on a Heidelberg 12-color UV press. The process included reverse printing, a 2.3 mil. soft-touch laminate for opacity, and a 1.4 mil. clear gloss laminate for added sheen. Carefully cut and collated into box sets and foil packs.
STUDENT AWARDS
FIRST PLACE
Pittsburg State University
Joni Mitchell Promotional Concept by Annabella Beachner
SECOND PLACE
University of Houston
Eid Greeting Card by Imaan Faisal
THIRD PLACE
Pittsburg State University
Bubble Gums Toothpaste box by Shae Gilstrap
JUDGES’ CHOICE
Legacy Preparatory Charter Academy
Helping Hamilton (Federalist Essays)
WAYNE WELKNER STUDENT TECHNICAL AWARD
Pittsburg State University
Keb Mo Promotional Concept by Alli Casner
THANK YOU TO OUR 2025 SPONSORS
