Printer advice needed

[mike_372]

Hi folks,


I have a friend who’s in the process of setting up a dog shampoo business (don’t ask!) They came to me asking if I could create labels for plastic bottles, and I really don’t know where to start.


I have no real experience with print media of this kind, but it would be nice if we could offer these kinds of services (labels, promo stickers, even posters).


Could anyone give any advice on where to start with this? Should I be looking at an inkjet or laser? Which will give us the most options for print media? I understand that inkjet is much better for photo printing, but for labels, stickers and basic artwork up to A3, what should we be looking at?


Any advice would be appreciated. Thanks in advance!

[Justin]

We do labels on our latex printer. You could look at the Roland BN20, very small (very slow) but does a good job on smaller runs. A much larger Mimaki can be sourced for a comparable price. Both perhaps more than you're looking to spend at this stage but worth a look

Personally I'd contract out, for how often you'd be running them off.

[mike_372]

Thanks a lot Justin! I've been considering the Roland, but I'm not familiar with latex printers. Will take a look into it

[socialgiraffe]

If you do not want to go down the Roland route, or the sub contract route (which both Justin and I could do for you), and if you require waterproof labels then I would suggest using laser as they are a wee bit more durable than ink jet.

I would suggest looking at labelplanet.co.uk and getting some precut papers which you can adjust your artwork to suit. This is the cheapest method but will not look as good as a label from a Roland...

[Xpres_Adam]

Hi Mike,

There are a few things that will do this job, it all depends on just how many you are looking to produce.
As the guys say the Roland is perfect for creating small batches of labels, you can even use white ink when printing onto a clear vinyl.
When it gets to larger volumes there are bigger solvent machines and UV machines capable of running of larger volumes.

If you do end up looking down the Roland route do give us a call and you'd be welcome to visit us to see the print and cut machines that may be suitable for your use.

Kind Regards,
Adam

[Justin]

I'd certainly recommend visiting Xpres, their demo suite is something else. Worth a trip just for the choice of coffee!

[mike_372]

If you do not want to go down the Roland route, or the sub contract route (which both Justin and I could do for you), and if you require waterproof labels then I would suggest using laser as they are a wee bit more durable than ink jet.

I would suggest looking at labelplanet.co.uk and getting some precut papers which you can adjust your artwork to suit. This is the cheapest method but will not look as good as a label from a Roland...

Thanks a lot for this! So would you recommend the laser over the Roland for waterproof labels, or does the eco-solvent always win out? I've been looking at OKIs, but I'm a bit worried about print quality (plus the suppliers I've spoken to seem cagey about providing samples...)

If you do end up looking down the Roland route do give us a call and you'd be welcome to visit us to see the print and cut machines that may be suitable for your use.

Cheers Adam, I've actually arranged to pop down next week! Looking forward to seeing what it can do!

[socialgiraffe]

Thanks a lot for this! So would you recommend the laser over the Roland for waterproof labels, or does the eco-solvent always win out? I've been looking at OKIs, but I'm a bit worried about print quality (plus the suppliers I've spoken to seem cagey about

No, I personally would say Roland is by far the best option, although as someone who has one configured with white ink I do disagree with Adam regarding getting one that can print white.

I was just thinking that if you are not wanting to invest in a Roland that perhaps a laser printer might work. They will not be as good as a Roland though.


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