[Lone Defiler]

Hello, I am trying to started in the T-shirt business, but I thought I would ask a few things on here.

Is it OK if I use an Iron instead of a press until I have enough need for one?

Whats cheap, but quality heat transfer paper?

Is there anyway to get a free sample or anything of this sort of Transfer Paper?

Where A Good Place To Buy Cheap T-shirts.

 

[Uncle John]

Lone, Its hard to start a business this way, using an iron the shirt won't hold the design for many washings.

 

[sjidohair]

I agree, get a press and do it the right way, that shows awesome color and staying power wash after wash, dont get know for cheap paper, cheap shirts, ect....Business will not return, and you need return business

 

[Lone Defiler]

What If I cannot afford a heat press?

 

[sjidohair]

Lone, I would start my designs untill I get afford a Used Press.
It will cost you some money to get started, I dont want to sound discouraging, we have all been where you are now,you will need T-shirts, Transfer paper, Ink jet or laser printer,, and some of this stuff you will need to have your business license to get.
Start learning what kind of press, and papers and ink you will want to use. there is a ton of subjects on this forum. If we can help you , please dont hesitate to post.
Glad to have you on board...

 

[nascarbob]

This is tough. You will get discouraged if you have garments returned. Angry customers will tell a lot of people not to buy from you. Try to buy the best equipment you can afford. Sometimes it may be a good used piece, or a cheap new one.

This board supplies the direction to help you out. If may have to find someone to sub-work out to for a while. You will not make as much $$$ but you will sell quality.

 

[Lone Defiler]

Hmm, I can afford everything, but I would rather not dip into my funds just yet.

Any help on the other items needed?

 

[charles95405]

There really isn't a way to start 'on the cheap'...you can outsource and still make a buck or so.. but do yourself and customers a favor ...do not use an iron. For a transfer to be commercially viable you need high consistent heat and constant heat...350-440 F depending on the paper/garment and even pressure and should be able to regulate the pressure from 20-60 PSI.

as to good cheap paper..it does not exist I dont believe. You can find quality paper in a decent price..50-75 cents per page..

You probably can get samples from some of our vendors..call and ask

And try to make one of the professional trade shows. You don't give your location so I can't suggest where/when, but go to isshows.com or National Business Media - Trade Magazine Publishers and Trade Show Producers It will certainly give you a huge insight into the business and paper/equipment that will help you get started