[steve420]

Hi, I'm looking to purchase some equipment to print my graphic designs onto tee shirts. I have been reading quite alot lately about silk screen printing. I have been watching craigslist and ebay daily looking for good deals on used gear. I have a few questions for some of you experienced printers. Im looking to buy a four color minimum press. What are some good quality brands to look out for and what should I expect to spend on something used? When looking at used presses what kind of things should I look out for in order to tell if its in good shape and has been maintained properly? Also, I've noticed a few post's stating no micro. I not exactly sure what that means and how that will affect the printing process. My last question, please explain what these terms mean, adjustable off contact and micro registration. Thanks

 

[jsf]

Where you looking for equipments for mass production in bulk or just some shirts in numbers? Anyway, Ryonet is offering this Semi-pro Complete Screen Printing Package. Better check it out.

Semi-Pro Complete Screen Printing Kit

Goodluck!

 

[jsf]

adjustable off contact and micro registration. Thanks

These are tweaks for your press. Off-contact is the gap between your screen and platen, the distance is in mm. The micro-reg helps you align your screen to the designs registered position with accuracy.

 

[steve420]

Thanks for the link. Starting out I will just be printing in numbers selling shirts at music festivals,concerts,expos and on my ebay store, but eventually I like to do large quantity prints. That's why Id like to invest in the best gear for the cash now instead of having to upgrade everything a year from now. Is Ryonet a well respected name in the screen printing business. How is the build quality. Anyone had any good/bad experiences with it? Excuse my lack of knowledge.

 

[jsf]

I think they already earn respect through the years, selling wide-range of products... But I could not speak for them, frankly I am no Ryonet user. Mine was just on a suggestive approach.

Better yet is to "read" more about Ryonets here in TSF. Many positive and negative feedbacks. well you can't win 'em all.

http://www.t-shirtforums.com/screen-printing/t74406.html
http://www.t-shirtforums.com/screen-printing-equipment/t77180.html
http://www.t-shirtforums.com/screen-printing/t46405.html
http://www.t-shirtforums.com/screen-printing-equipment/t84217.html

Lastly, don't be so hasty. Goodluck again.

 

[steve420]

Thanks for the reply. Definitely not being hasty, trying to do all my research first Thanks again.

 

[LivingThread]

There is prolly only a handful of "big guys" when it comes to equipment manufacturing. There is a LOT of "other guys" of who make slightly less desireable equipment. Most of what you see on ebay isnt really the best stuff out there. Im not saying its junk or not worth it. im just saying the quality isnt near the quality of the big guys like Ryonet, Vastex, Lawson, Workhorse, Atlas (just to name a few). Some of the stuff on ebay doesnt even have a manufacturers name on it. So who would you contact if it broke? The guy selling it on ebay? What would he know?

I personally use Vastex stuff. Its made very well and is located on the east coast. While not a big deal, you can save a butt load of money if you have a pick-up and go go get the stuff yourself. The first thing i bought was a second hand item from Vastex and i liked it so much i bought more things from them

 

[foot print]

I personally really like "workhorse" a 6x6 will put you back a pretty penny.. But it's a press that will last a life time. Riley Hopkins (older not newer) are also good presses less expensive than workhorse. CL is a good place to find used equipment but I have never seen a workhorse on CL. Micros on any press make all the difference in the world.