That similar to how I wound up here, I've been on the path for a couple years now and was recently able to start going into production. It's a steep learning curve so I would recommend that you take your time and don't jump into anything without doing your research first. There's a lot of great information to be had in this forum and in others. Google is most definitely your friend!
I did a lot of research and reading about the processes, equipment, products, costs and so on before I bought anything.
You get what you pay for...start by becoming familiar with the different equipment manufacturers, their product lines and reputations. That will lead you to a better understanding of what you want, need and can afford.
I've pieced my kit together over the last couple years by watching the local buy/sell/trade listings, and saved thousands of dollars in the process. Knowing what you're buying is a big help here!
I got a flat press, cap press, inkjet printer and miscellaneous transfers from one person, sublimation printer, mug press and assorted blanks from another, then capped it all off with a vinyl cutter and a ton of vinyl. So all my equipment sourced used, locally...enough for me to start learning, testing the market and decide what equipment upgrades to start planning for.
There are a number of methods, each with advantages and disadvantages. Dye Sublimation (aka Dye Sub, Sub) is one, plastisol transfers is another, direct to garment (DTG), heat transfers...and so on. They're well documented in other posts here and pages out in the web.
Good luck!
