Discuss the various aspects of heat press technology. Transfer paper, inks, plastisol transfers, vinyl cutters, printers, commercial usage, durability, suppliers, etc.
I have begun to move my hobbist style of making shirts using a hand iron and want to begin using a heatpress. Only problem I have is a lack in funding (all of it will be coming from my own pockets), Most of the decent presses I have seen range from atleast $400 and above for a new one. This at the moment is a bit high in price, are there other places I can go to get used equipment (Any suggestions?). I really want to be more efficient and provide my clients a better product then w/ a hand iron.
Has anyone else been in a similar situation, if so what did you do take the big expense or get a moderately good used press and save the profit to buy a better one down the line. This is a huge Dilemma I am having and can really use the options of the board in helping me find a good solution.
I started my 2nd career with a 9 x 12 geo Knight. it made me money, enough to buy a 15 x 15. I sold the 9 x 12 6 months later for $10. less than I bought it. Call coastal and tell them your a member and want a price of a 9 x 12. I think shipping is free.
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I saved until I could get a better one. I got a Hix 15" swing man. I like it. When you see it, you realize that the smaller ones probably aren't that useful. Also I would be careful of some of the junk that people sell on ebay. Like Gorilla or the homemade wood ones. I've heard stories about those.
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I purchased a used Hix 16 x 20 and have been extremely pleased - no problems with it - found it on craigslist actually although he had it on ebay as well.
Just be sure you know exactly what you're getting. I got a Hix jetpress (brand name), but didn't know to look for one with a temp gauge and am now disappointed.
New 15x15s aren't THAT much more expensive than a 9x12, and they're worth it IMO.
Good places to look for used ones include the aforementioned eBay and craigslist. I'd also suggest calling up local t-shirt & screen printing compaines in your area and ask if any of them happen to have a used heat press they're looking to sell - this is how I found my press. Try to stick with name brands (e.g. Hix) and don't pay more than half the price of a new one (1/3 the price of new is pretty normal I think; I got mine for about 1/4th, but it's pretty old too.)
Heat Press Dilemma, New or Used? 
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