Attending trade shows like Pinners conferences offer DIY enthusiasts and small business owners a variety of benefits and opportunities. Pinners conferences are known for their interactive, hands-on workshops where attendees can learn new skills in areas like crafting, home décor, cooking, beauty, and DIY projects.
We talked with Roland DGA’s Segment Manager for Small Business, Angelyn Cubacub, who recently exhibited at the Pinners Conference in Pomona, California, about what trade shows like Pinners can offer hobbyists, craftspeople, and small business owners, what types of equipment are available to see and use, and what other fun surprises may be in store for those who attend.
Why are trade shows so important for hobbyists, DIY enthusiasts, and small business/home business owners?
Angelyn Cubacub: Attending a show is a great way to experience the equipment from a range of manufacturers up close, without having to travel further than the show floor. In addition, experts will be on hand to show you how they work and will offer you the chance to use the printed products to create your own crafts. These practical experiences allow you to try out techniques or create projects with professional guidance, which can be more effective than just reading a tutorial or watching a video.
In addition, being surrounded by a community of like-minded individuals and seeing a wide range of creative work can spark your own imagination. Whether you're into crafting, or running your own business, you can find fresh ideas, inspiration, and motivation to tackle your own projects.
Finally, events like Pinners bring together a diverse group of people – craft enthusiasts, entrepreneurs, industry professionals, and influencers – providing ample networking opportunities. Attendees can connect with potential collaborators, suppliers, or even make new friends who share their passions.
Which devices was Roland DGA showing for the hobbyist and small business markets? What types of crafts were you demonstrating?
We brought two types of devices from our popular VersaSTUDIO line of professional–grade desktop printers. The first was our BN-20A and BN2-20A eco-solvent printer/cutters that we used to print and cut vinyl decals. We printed and cut a honeybee pattern that was applied to jars, customizing them for gifting or party favors for baby showers, etc. We also printed some canvases for interior home décor applications. While the BN2-20A’s price point is higher than craft devices like Cricut and Silhouette, attendees said they appreciated its high-quality performance, robust design, and printing versatility.
We also brought our BD-8 desktop UV printer and demonstrated its easy direct-to-object printing on motel keychain tags, coasters, and journals. Attendees said they were impressed by how easy it is to print, how many surfaces it can print on, and its ROI potential.
What were some of the highlights of the show?
Our booth highlight was definitely the “Make and Take” wraps we produced on the VersaSTUDIO BN2-20A desktop inkjet printer/cutter. This hands-on activity became one of the most popular attractions at the show. Since this was Roland DGA’s first year exhibiting at Pinners, we were caught a bit by surprise by the extent of the attendee interest. Demand exceeded our supply, even with additional make-and-takes for backup. Next year, we’ll be prepared!
It also seems you never know who you might meet?!
That’s true! In addition to meeting tons of other people who are interested in DIY and small business applications, we also had a booth visit from Redfoo, one half of the singing duo LMFAO (known for hits like “Party Rock Anthem”). After a demo of the BD-8 desktop UV printer, Redfoo was genuinely intrigued by its capabilities. The Roland DGA team worked quickly to create a custom print for the celebrity and invited him back to the booth to receive his personalized goods.
