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Discuss the various aspects of heat press technology. Transfer paper, inks, plastisol transfers, vinyl cutters, printers, commercial usage, durability, suppliers, etc.

Size Matters?



 
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Old July 20th, 2007 Jul 20, 2007 2:26:06 PM -   #1 (permalink)
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Default Size Matters?

15x15 versus 16x20?

I often read go with the 16x20. Comparing Hix swingman (different sizes) there is a double up price difference. Why encourage 16x20 as much? I just got out a ruler and measured myself and I am a pretty hefty guy...the 15x15 would be fine (I think).

Who out there bought a 15x15 and later went and got a 16x20 and what are the concrete reasons for this? Anybody out there with a 15x15 think the encouragement of 16x20 is a little overboard?

Thanks so much.
 
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Old July 20th, 2007 Jul 20, 2007 2:33:03 PM -   #2 (permalink)
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Default Re: Size Matters?

It really depends on the size design you are going to market. All my designs will work on a 15 x 15. That is what I started with and have used continuously now for nearly five years.

I travel with mine, so it is easier to move around. Also, I can slide the smaller size shirts and some totes over the platen easily when doing front and back (which can also be done with teflon sheets for protection).
 
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Old July 20th, 2007 Jul 20, 2007 2:35:41 PM -   #3 (permalink)
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Default Re: Size Matters?

If you only plan to do t-shirts.A 15x15 will serve you fine.If you plan to print other items calender,puzzles,etc. then the larger size will be helpful.I will tell you the larger press area will make it easier to align your design.I also suggest you get a www.teesquareit to help align your transfers. ... J Good luckB
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Old July 20th, 2007 Jul 20, 2007 2:37:24 PM -   #4 (permalink)
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Default Re: Size Matters?

And you see no need for yourself to upgrade then? Also, what is the largest possible tee shirt that you can produce to still look good with your design. Does anything over XXL just not look good by that point and time or not even that is an issue for your design?

Still interested in other people's thoughts on the original post too...thanks!
 
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Old July 20th, 2007 Jul 20, 2007 2:40:05 PM -   #5 (permalink)
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Default Re: Size Matters?

Quote:
Originally Posted by mrdisp
If you plan to print other items calender,puzzles,etc. then the larger size will be helpful
That's a great point too. I would be intersted in knowing the # of people who thought they were just doing tee-shirts and saw the value in marketing more products as there business developed...
 
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Old July 20th, 2007 Jul 20, 2007 3:05:54 PM -   #6 (permalink)
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Default Re: Size Matters?

There's 4 threads here with lots more great posts that talk about why size matters:

Whats the purpose of a 16 x 20 heat press??
Does size matter? Is bigger really better? Why?
Good professional heat press?
Need one more tip: which heat press?


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Last edited by Solmu; July 20th, 2007 at 11:52 PM. Reason: fixed links
 
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Old July 20th, 2007 Jul 20, 2007 4:13:23 PM -   #7 (permalink)
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Default Re: Size Matters?

Thanks, Rodney. Links aren't quite working for me though...can you make sure they are correct please?

BTW - I think I have read most of them (but I will re-read in case) ... I am just seeing the slant towards 16x20 and not really seeing the true reason for it personally (yet)...that's why I posed the question...thanks!
 
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Old July 20th, 2007 Jul 20, 2007 9:03:07 PM -   #8 (permalink)
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Default Re: Size Matters?

links didn't work me either ;(

I have a 15x15 Hix . . but as soon as my shop is finished (cabinets being built now) I plan on getting a second press and I'm going with the 16 x 20
I've thought I was going with another Hix, but I have seen (lately) alot of people using a hotronix

but I want the larger press for the larger shirts -- I've had a run on 4,5,6 x Large Tee's lately

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Old July 20th, 2007 Jul 20, 2007 11:55:40 PM -   #9 (permalink)
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Default Re: Size Matters?

Try the links again now if interested.
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Old July 21st, 2007 Jul 21, 2007 1:53:04 AM -   #10 (permalink)
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Default Re: Size Matters?

Quote:
Originally Posted by Shuffy
I have a 15x15 Hix . . but as soon as my shop is finished...I plan on getting a second press and I'm going with the 16 x 20...but I want the larger press for the larger shirts -- I've had a run on 4,5,6 x Large Tee's lately
Well, this is great insight. Thank you! Can I inquire:
1. Was a second heat press necessary for volume or would you just be using the one 16x20 if you had bought it originally?
2. Are 4,5,6 XLs a reasonable % of your business? Also, would you be able to accomplish them with your 15x15 by making a second or third pass (or do your designs somehow prohibit that)?

Quote:
Originally Posted by Shuffy
I've thought I was going with another Hix, but I have seen (lately) alot of people using a hotronix
1. What do you think of your 15x15 Hix?
2. When considering 16x20s (swingman in my case) I see the following:
a. Hix - about $1350...seems like most people like Hix and are happy with their machines.
b. Hotronix - about $1550...seems like most people like but is $200 more expensive then Hix so why do that?
c. GK 20S - about $1300...seems to have a LOT of functionality relative the price but you hear to many negatives about.

Shuffy, what leads you to Hotronix? Do you have a different perspective than my opinions of the three manufacturers?

Thanks again!
 
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Old July 21st, 2007 Jul 21, 2007 2:39:26 AM -   #11 (permalink)
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Default Re: Size Matters?

Quote:
Originally Posted by Rodney
There's 4 threads here with lots more great posts that talk about why size matters:

Whats the purpose of a 16 x 20 heat press??
Does size matter? Is bigger really better? Why?
Good professional heat press?
Need one more tip: which heat press?


If any newbie like me finds it useful, I am summarizing what I found useful from this information. Still useful reading but as it relates to 15x15 versus 16x20 this is what I found helpful (followed by my own assumptions)

Josh:
1) One big advantage is that you will not have to turn away business due to printing restrictions. Disadvantages are price point and it takes up more space.
2) The larger size is used a lot for oversized tees or designs. For example, a lot of folks print a full 11 x 17 transfer sheet as a design. Also the 16 x 20 works well for name and number combos when dealing with jerseys or ball uniforms.

Rodney
1) One additional benefit that I recently read here that isn't mentioned in that thread is that a lot of pre-printed transfers (like from proworldinc.com) are larger than some of the smaller presses can handle.

jdr8271
1) The bigger the press, the better, becuase it will not hold you back in the future. Right now you only want to do 8.5 x 11 shirts, but what if you want to do a 15" imprint in the future?

MotoskinGraphix
1) Styles change all the time...one day folks may want small art and the next they may want oversized art.
2) I would try and buy at least the 15x15 but wish I had the 16x20 for the oversized transfers.

DaGuide
1) A 16" x 20" is always best because it allows for shirts 2 XL and larger where you want the design to be longer than 14.5"
2) The best thing you can do is go to a trade show or a distributor and really see first-hand the benefits of the different styles of presses. Then, find the one that works best for your business now and at least a couple years down the road.

Decal Designs
1) I would recommend the 16x20. It gives you extra room that helps with lining up the clothing before pressing. It also allows you to press larger transfers when needed as designs change or design trends change.

vctradingcubao
1) Only problem I have with the 16x20 is that it emits too much heat, and the heat really tires me out after pressing.


MY ASSUMPTIONS
1) Portability is not a concern for me.
2) Clamshell versus Swingman versus Drawer not applicable ~ just considering size right now.
3) Confirmed electrical system as appropriate for either size.
4) I don't expect to press multiple items at once.
5) I am purchasing plastisol transfers. Not looking to print my own. If you are, consider your printer capability or a new printer. (depending on what you are looking to do!)
6) Cost is a practical concern but I have flexibility to stretch to afford a 16x20 (if warranted)

I hope newbies like me found this helpful. As for me, soul searching in progress although I would still appreciate insight from anyone who may have some to offer.

Thanks everyone!!!!
 
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Old July 21st, 2007 Jul 21, 2007 6:39:05 PM -   #12 (permalink)
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Default Re: Size Matters?

Quote:
Originally Posted by mrdisp
1. Was a second heat press necessary for volume or would you just be using the one 16x20 if you had bought it originally?
in my case, I would say.. for both reasons


Quote:
Originally Posted by mrdisp
2. Are 4,5,6 XLs a reasonable % of your business? Also, would you be able to accomplish them with your 15x15 by making a second or third pass (or do your designs somehow prohibit that)?

most of my business (about 98%) has to do with Awareness -- Autism, Down Syndrome, Breast Cancer, Hirschsprung's Disease, Leukemia, Lupus, ... just to name a few . .
I like to make sure that I have the + size Tee's available - also there are a few ladies that like oversize Tee's, especially after having a Mastectomy


Quote:
Originally Posted by mrdisp
1. What do you think of your 15x15 Hix?

Shuffy, what leads you to Hotronix? Do you have a different perspective than my opinions of the three manufacturers?
This is the one I've been looking at ...

Hotronix® Draw Press 16" x 20"
Digital time and temperature controls
Digital pressure display
Platinum RTD heat sensor
Cast in tubular heating element every 2" to ensure no cold spots
Quick change lower platen
3/4" thick Teflon coated upper platen
10 preset programs
Programmable print settings

I really like the idea of a Draw Press . . . since I am short . .
1-it will help from burning my forehead . .*ouchy*~ . . L*~
and 2- when I'm on a step up platform I will have a better view . .*giggling*~ . . like looking out over a ridge . . . .

it's really tough being short sometimes . .

Diane
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