DSF

These days, though, I don't tend to use CISS - I use refillable cartridges. Unfortunately, the thimble-size nature of Epson cartridges kind of precludes them from any serious dye-sublimation work with refillables. I don't use Ricoh printers because I don't want the manufacturer of the ink to dictate which printer I should use (they only support one A4 and one A3 Ricoh printer). Instead I use Brother printers, of which I can use larger refillable cartridges and I can select which printer I want to use from a whole range.

Thanks I have come to the conclusion that I do need to build up a "spare" of all things dye sub eg printer and presses as the very nature of the process seems to require it so will start saving the pennies now.

Re printers I was looking at a Ricoh for the next one as I thought these were the only other option to the Epson so its interesting to hear you use a Brother - what model and where do you get the sub ink from?

Do you think I can switch to refillables from CIS in my current Epson without much trouble - am just thinking if its the CIS thats at fault then that may work and at the moment I am not a big user (hence why I think I have this blocking issue anyway) so it probably wouldnt be too pricey for me.

Have had a Zap kit arrive am now deciding whether to use it (am a bit scared of doing more harm than good) or just try some more head cleans again.

Thanks everyone for the replies as well - all have been useful in helping me work through the problem one way or another!

Have had a Zap kit arrive am now deciding whether to use it (am a bit scared of doing more harm than good) or just try some more head cleans again.

head cleans will do wors then good
this is the wors you can doo actualy. if ink not flowing then clean your head once or twice. if nothing then STOP cleaning as you may flood your printer or damage your head.

Re printers I was looking at a Ricoh for the next one as I thought these were the only other option to the Epson so its interesting to hear you use a Brother - what model and where do you get the sub ink from?

any inkjet model and any supplier will sell you ink. I think it come in 125ml bottles. worth to have a go. carts are giantic

whitesquizzel;33449 wrote:Thanks I have come to the conclusion that I do need to build up a "spare" of all things dye sub eg printer and presses as the very nature of the process seems to require it so will start saving the pennies now.

Re printers I was looking at a Ricoh for the next one as I thought these were the only other option to the Epson so its interesting to hear you use a Brother - what model and where do you get the sub ink from?

Do you think I can switch to refillables from CIS in my current Epson without much trouble - am just thinking if its the CIS thats at fault then that may work and at the moment I am not a big user (hence why I think I have this blocking issue anyway) so it probably wouldnt be too pricey for me.

Have had a Zap kit arrive am now deciding whether to use it (am a bit scared of doing more harm than good) or just try some more head cleans again.

Just be aware if you go down the Brother route then support will have to come from the one or two people using Brother printers on this forum. This isn't supported widely or by any sublimation dealers.

bms;33457 wrote:Just be aware if you go down the Brother route then support will have to come from the one or two people using Brother printers on this forum. This isn't supported widely or by any sublimation dealers.

so where is epson support then??

whitesquizzel;33449 wrote:Re printers I was looking at a Ricoh for the next one as I thought these were the only other option to the Epson so its interesting to hear you use a Brother - what model and where do you get the sub ink from?

You can read about my experiences, including pros and cons, in my review thread here: http://www.dyesubforum.co.uk/vbforum/sh ... mation-use.

I'll be happy to answer any questions you might have after you've read that.

I would mention here, though, that I went down this path due to the "authorised" offerings being so restrictive. Having the ink manufacturer dictate which printer we can use is like the tail wagging the dog. We should be able to choose our own printer, ones that may be better suited to our own particular situation. For many people an Epson with a CISS is ideal; for others, the simplicity of a Ricoh set-up is perfection. For me, though, I've always been one to push the envelope and see if there are alternatives that suit me better.

Going down the Brother path may not be suited to you. As has been said, you won't get support from a supplier (not that you get much when Epson/Ricoh go wrong, or when an authorised system is over 12 months old, but you do at least get some support when you buy the complete kit from a Sawgrass approved reseller), and you'll need to find a solution for obtaining your ICC profile(s). Paul offers one such solution on this forum.

But have a read of my review and you'll get an understanding of why I chose Brother.

Thanks I will read and review all the options again in light of everyones comments.

Paul;33458 wrote:so where is epson support then??

Rhetorical?