The Thermotron STP1000 automatic folding machine is redefining efficiency for growing print shops. Designed to handle everything from T-shirts to hoodies with speed and precision, it folds up to 5,500 garments per shift with just one operator. DecoNetwork TV got hands-on with the system at the 2025 Impressions Expo and saw how it transforms folding into a streamlined, scalable process. When paired with a platform like DecoNetwork to manage orders, production, and online stores, the STP1000 unlocks even greater growth potential, helping print shops automate more, fulfill faster, and scale smarter.

What Makes The Thermotron STP1000 Stand Out
The Thermotron STP1000 is built for garment decorators who want speed, consistency, and flexibility in their folding process. With a single operator, this machine can fold up to 5,500 garments in an eight-hour shift. It is designed to handle more than just T-shirts. Hoodies, polos, and crewnecks are folded with precision using one of five programmable settings.
What makes the STP1000 stand out is its ability to adapt to different garment sizes and folding styles. You can customize fold dimensions between 18 and 32 centimeters, making it suitable for various product lines. The system operates quietly and is easy to maintain, making it ideal for busy production environments. Its modular design also means you can start with just the folding unit and scale up later with bagging, sealing, or labeling add-ons.
For print shops focused on growth, accuracy, and presentation, the STP1000 provides a solid foundation for automated production.
Key features:
- Folds up to 5,500 garments per shift
- Handles a wide range of apparel types and sizes
- Adjustable fold dimensions for custom results
- Five programmable folding presets
- Quiet and low-maintenance operation
- Modular system for future upgrades
Fold 5,000 Garments Daily With Thermotron STP1000
In a fast-paced print shop, manual folding can quickly become a bottleneck. The Thermotron STP1000 solves that problem with industrial-level performance. Folding up to 5,500 garments in one shift, this machine boosts output while maintaining consistency across every item. Whether you are working with lightweight tees or bulky hoodies, the STP1000 delivers clean, uniform folds that elevate the presentation of your products.
What sets this system apart is not just the speed but the quality. Shops using the STP1000 report fewer packing errors, tighter quality control, and a more professional final product. Consistent folding improves the perceived value of your merchandise, especially when items are sold through retail or direct-to-consumer channels. The machine’s automation also frees up staff to focus on higher-value tasks like printing, embroidery, or customer service.
Benefits in action:
- Doubles folding capacity compared to manual labor
- Improves product consistency and brand presentation
- Reduces labor strain and repetitive tasks
- Scales effortlessly with DecoNetwork workflow integration
- Helps meet large orders with confidence and speed
Expand Your Workflow With Thermotron STP1000 Add-Ons
The Thermotron STP1000 is more than a folding machine. It is the entry point into a fully automated packaging system designed to grow with your business. Thanks to its modular design, you can start with the folding unit and later expand with add-ons like the PV40 automatic bagger, heat sealer or tape sealer, and a thermal barcode labeler. Each component connects seamlessly, allowing your workflow to scale without needing a complete overhaul.
For shops aiming to deliver retail-ready garments, this system delivers both speed and polish. From folded T-shirts to sealed and labeled hoodies, the full line handles it all with minimal labor and maximum consistency. You can customize the setup based on your product mix, packaging preferences, and volume goals.
Thermotron’s build quality is also worth noting. These machines are built to last, with low maintenance requirements and reliable performance that helps decorators stay productive day after day.
System highlights:
- Fully modular setup for folding, bagging, sealing, and labeling
- Handles hang tags and various bag types without jamming
- Optional barcode and SKU label printer for inventory control
- Designed for retail-ready packaging and shipping
- Durable construction with proven reliability in high-volume shops
The Takeaway: Boost Growth With Smart Print Shop Automation
The Thermotron STP1000 automatic folding machine is a powerful investment for print shops looking to scale with speed, consistency, and professionalism. From folding thousands of garments per shift to integrating seamlessly with bagging, sealing, and labeling modules, the STP1000 gives decorators the tools to deliver a retail-quality finish at production-level volume. Whether you are folding tees, hoodies, or polos, this machine simplifies your workflow and increases output with fewer hands on deck.
When paired with DecoNetwork’s all-in-one order and production management system, the STP1000 becomes part of a complete automation strategy that keeps your shop running smoothly and profitably. Together, they help decorators reduce labor costs, eliminate errors, and exceed customer expectations at every step. If your shop is ready to grow, this is the setup that gets you there.