[milkfreelogan]

I've recently decided that I want to start a screen printing business, I have absolutely no experience. I'm really not the most artistic person, but I know my way around a computer and don't think it should be much of a problem, although I will hate having to outsource my designs to other people, but I feel like customers may come with designs already made? I've always been interested in this industry, but just recently started studying the process. I've been watching a lot of instructional videos on YouTube and researching the equipment I'm going to need to buy. I plan on being mainly an online company and taking orders that way, but I will, of course, take orders from locals and walk-ins. I'm would really like to rent a building out instead of starting in a garage to give the business a more legitimate feel. I want to make sure I really know the processes before I actually take this leap, because I think I will probably try to get a small business loan for at least 20k.

I know that silkscreeningsupplies.com has everything I would need to get to start out, I've also ran across homecashbusiness.com - has anyone heard anything about this company?

Is [Ryonet] a good place for someone like me to start out? They also offer a free beginners class and include several instructional DVDs. I have searched for used equipment, but I can't really find anything.

Let me know if you think I am getting in over my head, I probably only know about 10% of the things that I need to know right now, but I am an entrepreneur, and I'm determined to get into this fascinating industry.

Thanks so much guys! First post! (Hopefully many more to come)
Logan

 

[milkfreelogan]

I'm wondering if I should get a 6 color or 4 color setup, and where I should purchase it... It seems silkscreeningsupplies would be my best bet. I don't want to overdo it and buy more than I need, but I also don't want to miss out on people who are wanting to go with those extra colors.

 

[kirkmansigns]

Please be careful before taking the leap. Customers RARELY bring in a design ready for printing. They bring an "idea" and expect you to create their vision for them. Also, an online company will be VERY HARD to start because your competition is endless. If you really want to make money I feel you really need automatic equipment. As far as supplies, we deal with local commercial suppliers, Tubelite, Tex-Source, ect. Another wise investment is taking a hands on class. It's the best money you can spend with no prior experience. What you need to decide is, am I doing this just for fun and if I make money it's icing on the cake OR am I doing this to make MONEY. If you're in it for a living to make money, you need faster larger equipment.

 

[janem]

And just to add my two pennies worth. Starting a business is a 7 day struggle. You will have to do a lot of leg work to promote yourself . Against people who are well established .
But if you are up for it then take the plunge. And go for it. If you are lucky enough to get equipment loan.

 

[sben763]

Ryonet is exellant to work with. A 6-4 or a 6/6 is mandatory for quick production. Try digitsmith for used. Craigslist is full of used. Use a Craigslist search engine like tempest.