Screen Printing RIP Software | DTG & DTF Print Drivers | Lawson

Lawson offers the software packages you need, whether for screen printing RIP, DTG RIP, DTF RIP, separation, graphics, vinyl cutting, or shop management.

Professional RIP Software for Inkjet Film Positives: When using an inkjet printer for outputting film positives, we recommend purchasing rip software compatible with both your printer and computer. Screen printers need halftones to simulate tones for realistic images. Color inkjet output does not use half-tones, and the inkjet manufacturers have not designed that function into their software.

Color Separation Software for Complex Screen Prints: If your shop needs to do simulated process, index color, real process, or a variety of color separation film outputs, having software to aid that process is invaluable. Output to an inkjet printer with PostScript, your laser printer on vellum, your laser printer on laser acetate, or an image setter.

Graphics software: Screen and digital printers need to have the ability to modify and create artwork for imprinting. In addition to the editing software, artwork design templates and clip art are also an essential part of a printer's workflow. Having the right graphics software is essential to screen printing, sign making, direct-to-garment printing, sublimation printing, laser engraving, embroidery, promotional products, and many other screen and digital printing applications.

Vinyl cutting software: This family of software is used not only for the sign-making industry, but for anyone who needs a solution for digitally printed graphics as well. Vinyl cutting software is designed to work with a variety of digital plotters and printers. Output high-quality vectored artwork for many applications.

Commercial Screen Printing, DTG & DTF RIP Software Solutions


Professional screen printing RIP software and digital print drivers are essential for converting digital artwork into high-density film positives, controlling halftone dot angles, and managing color output across DTG, DTF, and hybrid production workflows. Implementing the right RIP software guarantees exact ink laydown, sharp edge resolution, and consistent color reproduction across every print run.

Selecting the Best RIP & Graphics Software for Your Workflow


Lawson Workhorse Group (LWG) provides industry-leading software solutions tailored to your specific operating system, printer hardware, and production needs:


All software purchased through Lawson Workhorse Group includes technical setup assistance, software license management, and direct support from primary facilities in St. Louis, MO, and Atlanta, GA.

Screen Printing & Digital Software: FAQ

What is the difference between FilmMaker 11 and ColorMate RIP?


FilmMaker 11 is a Windows-based industry standard designed for precision halftones, dot angles, and ink density control. ColorMate RIP is engineered specifically for macOS users, providing a seamless native interface for outputting high-Dmax film positives from Apple computers.

Do I need separate RIP software for DTF and Screen Printing?


It depends on your setup. Dedicated DTF workflows run best on specialized software like Digital Factory 12 DTF Edition. However, hybrid shops running both DTG and DTF equipment can manage multiple digital output engines from a single driver like DigiRIP DTG/DTF Hybrid.

Can I use RIP software to create color separations?


RIP software controls halftone dot shapes, LPI line counts, and ink laydown during the printing phase of film positives. For complex simulated process, index color, or 4-color process separations, dedicated color separation design software is used prior to sending files to the RIP.

Why do screen printers need RIP software instead of standard printer drivers?


Standard desktop printer drivers do not generate halftone dots or allow control over black ink density. Screen printing RIP software converts continuous-tone artwork into halftone dot patterns required for screen mesh exposure and forces printers to deposit maximum ink opacity (Dmax) for UV blocking.

Does Lawson assist with RIP software installation and license registration?


Yes. Lawson Workhorse Group provides technical support, license activation guidance, and remote installation assistance to ensure your print drivers and software profiles are properly calibrated for your specific printer and computer setup.