DSF

What a maze!

So far I'm liking the look of vynal (flex?), but I need to understand what equipment I need to geet my started... Is it simply a Craft Robo and a heat press? Software-wise I have PShop - but I'm not sure that will do the job..?

Alternatively, it seems more cost effective to perhaps order plastisol designs ready to press - but I can't seem to find any UK based suppliers... this seems to be more advanced in the US I think...?

Another alternative could be printable flex and use my existing epson printer - but Im not sure these will last as long as vynal etc...

And can't I do more things with vynal if I branch out at a future date?

Can anyone please give me some guidance, maybe pros and cons of the different methods you have experience in...

Much appreciated!

You need a Cutter a Heat Press and a Vector program. Pshop is a bitmap program but ok for printing. Corel Draw or Illustrator are the best for the vector jobs. Some flex is printable and some is not. But you will probably need a solvent printer for that. You can print with an Inkjet printer on special Inkjet paper. Or a laser printer onto suitable paper as well.
Printing transfers is ok if you have the right customers for the available prints.
And you need to find a spell checker as well.

Good luck
Earl

Thanks Earl - I looked at BMS - printable flex seems to be ok for inkjet with durabrite inks... but wanted to know about the quality / durability etc... Does the Craft Robo come with Vector software or do I need to buy this seperately? And speelcheckar? How come?

Just looked at the post by Adam - http://www.alternativeto.net and they have a Corel Draw alternative - Inkscape - I guess this would sort the vector graphics out - just need to learn how to use it!!!!!

Dont know anything about the Craft Robo, sorry. I have a GX24 Roland. This comes with a very basic vector program that will do text and some shapes. You do need to invest in Corel or similar because very soon after starting you will have to make logos , put outlines on them and merge shapes for the cutter. Not possible with the Roland software.
As for printing with Durabrite Inks, again, no idea. Why not speak to BMS direct and find out. I have never printed onto vinyl either so cant help with that.
Pretty useless really.

Good luck
Earl

Lee;39180 wrote:
Alternatively, it seems more cost effective to perhaps order plastisol designs ready to press - but I can't seem to find any UK based suppliers... this seems to be more advanced in the US I think...?

have a look here: http://www.etcsupplies.co.uk/product_in ... cts_id=996

Lee;39184 wrote:Just looked at the post by Adam - http://www.alternativeto.net and they have a Corel Draw alternative - Inkscape - I guess this would sort the vector graphics out - just need to learn how to use it!!!!!

inkscape is very powerful tool. you can do most stuff as you would with expensive packages, and is not to difficult to use ;D

Earl Smith;39188 wrote:Pretty useless really.

Not at all - any advice you have gratefully received! How do you make yours?

Paul;39198 wrote:have a look here: http://www.etcsupplies.co.uk/product_in ... cts_id=996



inkscape is very powerful tool. you can do most stuff as you would with expensive packages, and is not to difficult to use ;D

Thanks Paul - just looked at the site - didn't realise they had to be one colour - with vynal you can layer one or two colours (I think) - so perhaps plastisol is limited?

I'm gonna have a play with the software tonight! How you do do yours too pls Paul?

you not that limited with plastisol. This company is limiting them self

The Craft Robo comes with its own basic software too, having said that i use that mostly over Corel

So, craft robo and heat press - and Im good to go? Then just need the materials, designs, business nouse...not forgetting paying customers!!!!