Do you want to have your own printed knitwear business? Well, to set up a store in this segment it is essential to choose wisely a machine for t-shirt printing in Dallas.
Thinking about helping you with this, we separate the main information on the subject so that you can define which model is more in tune with the purpose of your brand (and with your pocket)!
What does it take to set up a t-shirt print shop?
Before talking about the T-shirt printing machine, it is important that you know what it takes to undertake in this area. If your idea is to open a T-shirt printing company, you will need a business plan to structure your company.
This plan should contain a study of the market and competition, a profile of the target audience, an operational plan and a marketing plan, in addition to the necessary investments to get started. In summary, you will need the following items to set up a t-shirt print shop:
- A good T-shirt printing machine that meets your needs;
- A supplier of t-shirts of different models and sizes;
- A computer to edit the images;
- Basic knowledge in design software to prepare the art that will be printed on the shirt (you can have your own art and also offer personalized t-shirts);
- A space to make the prints and store the t-shirts, which can be your own home;
- A CNPJ to regularize your business (you can open a MEI);
- A sales channel, such as a physical store or an online store.
With the Nuvemshop ecommerce platform, for example, you can create an online t-shirt store for free and without any difficulties. The system already comes with a product catalog, integrated payment and shipping methods, order control and much more.
What are the types of T-shirt printing machine?
In the market, there are several options to transfer/print images in meshes. However, the most used T-shirt printing machines are:
- Transfer;
- Silk screen (or serigraphy);
- Sublimation;
- digital transfer.
Each of them has its particularities, especially with regard to the transfer/printing format, colors and compatible fabrics (which directly interfere with the final result).
Therefore, before we understand each of the printing processes, let’s look at the types of knitwear for t-shirts .
Types of knitwear for t-shirts
- Carded: 100% cotton. When compared to the feel of a polyester fabric, it is softer;
- Combed: also 100% cotton. However, as it has thicker threads (30.1), it is considered better than carded;
- Cold (PV): 33% polyester + 67% viscose. Indicated for school t-shirts and colder places/days;
- Dry : 100% polyester. Ideal for practicing sports, as it retains sweat and has greater durability.
How does the t-shirt printing process work?
As we have seen, there are different types of T-shirt printing machines. Therefore, below, know each of the processes :
TransferThe transfer is nothing more than a thermal transfer : after printing the desired print, this image is pressed (at high temperature) onto the shirt. Thus, the mesh is not dyed — it just receives an extra layer, a kind of adhesive.
This t-shirt machine is low cost and does not require a minimum print run. However, the transfer quality is not the best, as after a few washes the “sticker” may fade, peel off and/or crack.
- Sublimation
Similar to transfer, stamping is also thermal. However, in this case, the sublimatic ink in solid state, after being pressed at a high temperature, evaporates and penetrates into the fibers of the fabric.
In sublimation, there are no limits to the concomitant use of colors. However, it is ideal only for white t-shirts and synthetic knits , such as cold and dry . Such requirements guarantee the quality and durability of the print.
- Silk screen
With high production value, the Silk screen T-shirt printing machine works from different screens with cutouts that are placed on top of the fabrics. With the inks and distribution rollers, the meshes are manually dyed.
It is ideal for large print runs , as for each color it is necessary to create a new canvas with cutouts.
- Fingerprint
Digital printing is the most technological option on the market . This T-shirt printing machine transfers the illustrations to the fabrics as if it were a printer dyeing the paper.
Because its inks are water-based , the prints are quickly absorbed by the fabric and the quality of the piece is very close to Silk screen.
This type of machine allows stamping with different colors (even on dark fabrics) and individual customizations. It is quite easy and agile, however, the cost of equipment and paints is high .
How much does a t-shirt printing machine cost?
A T-shirt printing machine costs from R$800 . The price varies according to the different dimensions and surfaces you intend to print (S, M, L and XL, for example).
Therefore, before buying a press for your products, you need to keep in mind which images you intend to use . See below for an estimate of the prices you will find:
- From BRL 800: with this amount, it is possible to buy machines measuring up to 38 x 38 cm and that print both T-shirts and other small and flat surfaces, such as decorative tiles and cushions;
- R$ 1,000: if your intention is to work with larger designs, consequently, you will have to use a wide press. At this price, you can find a T-shirt printing machine up to 40 x 60 cm;
- Up to BRL 3,000: there are thermal presses for sublimation that are multifunctional, that is, they can be used to print not only t-shirts, but also caps, mugs, plates, etc. If your idea is to start with t-shirts and then expand to custom product kits, this type of machine may be the ideal solution.
What is the best t-shirt printing machine?
To choose the best t-shirt printing machine for your business, it is important to consider your objectives, as mentioned above, as well as the technical support available. Now that you already know the main options on the market, it’s easier to make that decision, isn’t it?
When purchasing a machine, be concerned about knowing what kind of assistance is offered . Remember that if your machine stops working, you will stop billing for an indefinite period. Therefore, you will need a quick and efficient service.
Access forums on this topic and ask for the opinion of people who already own the model you intend to purchase. Before closing the deal, ask if it’s possible to return the product if it doesn’t fit.
All understood about t-shirt printing machines?
Buying a t-shirt printing machine is one of the most important steps when creating a store in this niche. Therefore, it is worth researching a lot before purchasing it, after all, you will be responsible for the quality of the products you will sell.
Another important part is to have an e-commerce with a good cost-benefit and that follows your growth when selling over the internet . At Nuvemshop, you have all this and you can even create your free virtual store to test and fall in love with our platform!
