Engraving & Printing Equipment

FAQs

What kind of vinyl cutter do I need for my business?

When exploring what’s best for your business, consider the volume and type of product you’d like to produce with your vinyl cutter. For small businesses or hobby use, the Siser Romeo or Siser Juliet are excellent options due to their desktop friendly size and beginner friendly setup and software. If you require additional features or print widths beyond 24 inches, you may consider upgrading to a larger print and cut machine, like the Roland BN series.

What is a "pre-press," and is it necessary?

Pre-press refers to pressing an item or garment in your heat press before adding artwork or design. This step is not always required, but it often helps improve your final results by reducing moisture and wrinkles in the garment.

What is the difference between DTF and sublimation?

Direct-to-Film (DTF) and sublimation are two separate types of printing processes. Sublimation is a scientific process that takes an aqueous based, or liquid, ink and converts it to a gaseous state without passing through a liquid phase. This process is activated by taking a transfer printed with a sublimation specific printer, paper and inks, and the application of heat and pressure. Applying heat and pressure allows the ink to penetrate and bond with polyester fibers or specially coated surfaces. The result is a vibrant, permanent image that is resistant to fading and washing. This process is particularly popular for creating high-quality, full-color prints on items such as apparel, mugs, and photo panels. Sublimation’s ability to produce detailed, long-lasting images makes it an ideal choice for personalized gifts, promotional items, and custom products.

Direct-to-Film is a process that involves printing onto a special film using a special Direct-to-Film printer. You then add a DTF specific powder that adheres to the wet ink on the film, creating a layer that will bond with fabric when heat is applied. This powdered film is then transferred to a heat press, where the combined heat and pressure activate the adhesive properties, allowing the design to fuse seamlessly onto various fabric types. This process can be completed manually or by using a shaker system. This method differs from sublimation, as it can be used on both light and dark fabrics without the need for a polyester coating. The result is a durable, vibrant print that maintains its quality even after multiple washes, making it an excellent choice for custom apparel and textile products.

To summarize, sublimation can be used on both hard and soft surfaces that have a polyester coating or polyester thread, these items are typically white or light in color. Direct-to-film is suitable for fabric and soft materials, and does not require a special type of coating or color. Each process requires a special type of printer and inks.

What software is needed?

In addition to your design software, most print technologies require additional RIP software. This software, like Epson EdgePrint or Roland VersaWorks, is often included with your equipment purchase.

What is a heat press used for?

Heat presses have several applications that span across multiple print technologies. Heat presses are used in the process for sublimation, Direct-to-Garment (DTG) printing, toner heat transfer printing, and even the vinyl application process. In sublimation, a heat press is used to create the heat and pressure required for the sublimation process to happen. In DTG printing, heat presses are used in the finishing step of the print process and to activate adhesion on vinyl.