About Lawson
Trusted Since 1949.
At Lawson Workhorse Group (LWG), we believe great equipment is only part of the equation. Success in garment decoration comes from having the right partner. A partner that understands your challenges, helps you grow, and supports you every step of the way.
For more than 75 years, we've helped screen printers and garment decorators operate more reliably and profitably by delivering dependable equipment, quality supplies, and expert support. Our business succeeds when your business succeeds. That philosophy has guided us for generations and drives everything we do today.
Together, we're building the future of garment decoration.
We help garment decorators operate reliably and profitably by delivering dependable equipment, supplies, and support they can count on every day.
Our business succeeds when your business succeeds. That philosophy has guided us for generations and drives everything we do today.
A Legacy of Innovation
Lawson's story began in 1949 with one inventor and one simple question: "What does the printer need?"
Founder Gene Landesman had a passion for inventing and solving problems. When a friend asked him to build a better automatic screen printing press, Gene delivered a machine that was simpler, easier to maintain, and more affordable than anything available at the time. That first machine changed the course of the company and helped shape the screen-printing industry. For more than seven decades and three generations, Lawson has remained family-owned and committed to its founding principles.
From traditional screen printing to technologies in DTG and DTF, Lawson has always focused on helping printers work smarter and produce better results.
The Workhorse story is built on innovation, evolution, and a relentless commitment to manufacturing dependable equipment.
Its roots trace back to the 1980s with the development of the original Mr. T manual press and the Chaparral line of printing equipment. Through strategic acquisitions, including Tuf Products and Progressive Machine, Workhorse brought together some of the industry's most respected technologies under one brand.
The result was a lineup of equipment trusted by thousands of printers across North America.
From manual presses to automatic production equipment, Workhorse built its reputation on durability, performance, and delivering value to growing shops.
Gene Landesman builds the first Lawson press.
Second generation takes the lead.
Expanding innovation in automation & digital.
Lawson Screen & Digital Products and Workhorse Products unite to become
Lawson Workhorse Group
Chaparral Company was started.
Chaparral and Workhorse merge to become Workhorse Products.
Workhorse acquires Tuf Products & Progressive Machine.
LWG: Lawson Workhorse Group
This merger wasn't simply about combining two companies. It was about creating a stronger, smarter, and more customer-focused organization for the garment decoration industry. By bringing together decades of engineering expertise, manufacturing experience, and customer relationships, LWG now provides customers with:
Expanded Product Solutions
A broader offering of equipment, supplies, and digital technologies to support shops of every size.
Enhanced Support & Service
More experts, more resources, and faster response times to keep your production running.
Greater Innovation
Combined engineering experience that drives new technologies, automation, and improved efficiencies.
More Value
A single partner that can help your business grow—from startup shops to high-volume production facilities.
More Than a Supplier. A Partner.
The garment decoration industry is constantly evolving. Technology changes. Markets change. Customer demands change. One thing hasn't changed: Our commitment to helping printers succeed.
Industry Experience
More than 75 years of serving garment decorators.
Technical Expertise
Real experts who understand production challenges and know how to solve them.
Training & Education
Hands-on classes, virtual support, and personalized guidance designed to help you succeed.
Complete Solutions
Equipment, supplies, service, consumables, and support—all from one trusted partner.
Long-Term Partnerships
We don’t just sell equipment. We build partnerships that help our customers grow.
When you call LWG, you talk to real people who know printing. Our team is dedicated, experienced, and passionate about helping your business succeed.
Meet Our TeamHear from printers who rely on LWG equipment, training and support.
“LWG equipment is built to last and their support team is the best in the business.”
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