I am wanting to start dye sublimation and possibly progress to a small home business with website. I would really like some advice on the equipment to buy for my situation. I plan to print t-Shirts, baby clothes, tiles, coasters, mugs, etc. I am ok for the website. Please let me know of any training courses in Brisbane/Gold Coast/Sunshine Coast. I can pay $300 for a one day course at GJS in Sydney, but would have to fly there and get accommodation. I would prefer to meet local people and spend these funds on setting up.
However, the training course seemed an advantage in showing me what is involved and whether I would be good at it. What do you think? I am at the Sunshine Coast.
I wouldn't have thought dye sublimation is complicated enough to warrant flying interstate for a training course, but I haven't heard anything about the GJS course specifically, so I don't know whether or not it's worth it.
I would say that if you're willing to travel for information like that though, you'd be better off going to a trade show. Only problem with that is the Australian print shows I've managed to get to have had a very narrow focus (more wide format printing than anything else), and you might not find much information on dye sub specifically.
If Tania doesn't drop into this thread, maybe PM her to see if she has any advice.
__________________ "Ah, Henny Penny," said Chicken Little, "the sky is falling, and I must go and tell the king."
I got a dye sub e-booklet from GJS the other day, I'll dig it up for you. I got it to see how they do it compared to how I do it. I didn't really see to much difference, not enough to warrent a trip.
I had a horrid time with ghosting when I started, but found with some spray adhisive on the print, it eliminated the problem and I honestly beleive the colours are more vibrent.
If you do look at this option I would recommend getting some good equipment don't scrimp on your presses. good even heat and pressure is the key. If your going to print on coloured garments do up a few PMS test prints and press them on to the coloured garment to referance how the colours mix. I do alot of Hi viz Dye Sub and found it to be extremely useful to get the right colours to come out in the logo.
Dye sub can be fun, and with some trial and error you can get some great results!
Hi Forry, Many thanks for your advice. Can you tell me what brand and model printer you use? Do you use Continuous Ink Supply and what brands to get the great colours? (I love colour, always have). Also, what brand & size press do you use?
I am thinking that "ghosting" is when other shapes/marks appear on you paper prior to pressing? Could this be the printer or the ink perhaps? What did you think caused it.
I also believe in buying the best equipment with backup, but the more I research, the more costly it is becoming. And what if I don't get any orders or sell anything? This is my dilemma, as I am not rolling in funds and have no income. But I would really like to give it a go without having to buy new equipment shortly after starting because I went too small!!
Is it not expensive trying out all your designs & colors, especially if what you do may be a one-off? Do you use scraps for this? I would really like to join an Australia dye sub group if there is such a thing. This forum is fantastic (a bit out of my depth re experience), but I hanker for more Oz advice using the Oz market.
Sure I have an epson 4400, I use the cartridges though may change to bulk soon. (OMFG they are getting dear) I have 2 stahls 21" x17" heat press and their cap press.
The Ghosting was caused by movment, either when the heat press was clamped down or straight after finishig pressingand removing the top. But after using teh addhesive it is crisp and clear and never had a problem since.
There are some great starter packages from teh guys a gjs, though a little dear. most of what i think you'r looking at will be done fine with an A4 printer, though A3 is nice for large back prints.
I have all the following printing gear that im looking to sell due to moving out of the t-shirt game which I have been experimenting with as a hobby for the last three years.
I have the following for sale:-
-1 X Insta Heat Press 221 (late 2006 model) in virtually new condition, very limited use. Works like a charm, dont waste your time with crappy heat presses from ebay they simply dont last.
-Loads of transfers and vinyl
-Basically everything you need to start a custom clothing business today
Dye Sub Printer & Heat Press Required 
I am wanting to start dye sublimation and possibly progress to a small home business with website. I would really like some advice on the equipment to buy for my situation. I plan to print t-Shirts, baby clothes, tiles, coasters, mugs, etc. I am ok for the website. Please let me know of any training courses in Brisbane/Gold Coast/Sunshine Coast. I can pay $300 for a one day course at GJS in Sydney, but would have to fly there and get accommodation. I would prefer to meet local people and spend these funds on setting up.
Re: Dye Sub Printer & Heat Press Required 
Re: Dye Sub Printer & Heat Press Required 
