[Jewwell]

Since this question falls under a few categories, I decided to post it here and if it needs to be moved a moderator can advise.
I am looking to start a home based business doing rhinestone tees, t shirt vinyl transfers, and anything else I find the machines I purchase are able to do that will generate income to recoup some start up expenses for materials. Here's where I am stumped, to get my feet off the ground, I am being gifted with two main machines of my choice that I will need to get things going. I wasn't given a dollar amount (however I'm not trying to abuse the offer either, and I look to return the kind favor investment just because I think it's the right thing to do, with a bit of interest if profit allows , therefore I'm not going to go overboard on spending, but i do want quality) I was always taught you get what you pay for. So of course I want to produce quality product for repeat customers and make the right decisions, I am so analytical, I can research this forum (which i love by the way!!) for years and still not get moving, I'm just an over thinker! So sometimes I need a push!
I am leaning towards a Hotronix machine 16x20 (auto release) figured this will help with making the job easier physically. Also, a vinyl cutter the Roland GX-24. I also was told the software can be thrown in (I was thinking Corel Draw?? Something that will afford me easy rhinestone and shirt designing) and then all else I will fund from my start up funds, ie., rhinestone software, template materials, tshirts, etc.
I figured, if I'm going to do this why start off out sourcing if I do not need to, so benefiting financially by cutting out the middle man. Also down the line, perhaps picking up business helping someone else who may not have the equipment. (am I thinking rationally here).
So therefore, I am just looking for input from a few seasoned members, on what to do? Am I thinking right, although this is a starter business is it better to get all the equipment needed first off if I am able to? Does this decision put me in a good start off position as a newcomer? Please share your input...
I can see myself getting all the equipment needed, and then saying Ok what next??? Learning the software I guess??
Thanks for your assistance and time.

Jewwell

 

[janem]

Hello and welcome.

You are right you do get what you pay for. So the heat press sounds great. It will be you main item. So do spend money on this .
Rhinestones are great fun. And it will be a steep learning curve . But so worth it. And so much fun.
If you anything like me you will at times tear your hair out. Then be up all night thinking through the problem. And do it better. Then wonder why you never thought of that first.
A good computer program is important. I choose one that does png backgrounds for what i needed. But you will have to find something that works for what you want to do . I am sure someone will offer some great advice for that.

Hope i help a bit

 

[amarilloeab]

Dont forget to factor in the cost of all the start up material, it wont do you much good to have all the equipment if you cant afford the materials to make your item. Ive just started in rhinestones and my first stone purchase for just basic colors and sizes ran over 500 bucks and that is a very BASIC start, this isn't mentioning the sticky flock or other template material. Also consider the amount of materials that will be wasted in the learning process. For me the biggest losses I have had were an improperly stored roll of green hartco material and when I used an entire roll of the rhinestone decal material learning how to get it to properly cut on my machine.

Another question is to consider how you are selling your products. I originally had planned on putting my stuff in craft markets and fairs. But now finding myself needing a website to direct customers to so they can get more customizable items.

Hope this helps.

 

[Jewwell]

Thanks, and yes we put aside funds for start up materials.