Have you ever experienced sticker shock from a price quote for custom-printed T-shirts, hats, bags or other gear bearing the logo of your organization? If so, this article is for you.
Custom printing is a booming business, and for good reason: giving out branded items to prospective customers can be an effective form of advertising for small and big businesses alike. However, if you’re running a startup or are in business on your own, it can be tough to find money in the budget for a hefty custom printing bill. For some innovative business owners, this can cause a light bulb to go off in their heads and consider the DIY route. If you’re wondering whether you should buy a heat press machine to make your own branded swag at an affordable price or just leave it to the custom printing pros, the answer is, it depends.
Keep these things in mind when you’re deciding whether to spring for a heat press machine or pay for professional printing services:
Your budget
Heat press machines can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. Unless you plan to custom-print a large number of garments over a long period of time, it may be more cost-effective to leave the printing to the pros on an as-needed basis.
Your time
Heat press printing can be time-consuming, especially if you are not experienced. If you do not have a lot of time to spare, it may be better to hire a professional. Then again, if you already know your way around a heat press and don’t plan to print many items in a single batch, owning your own press might be a cost-saving move.
Your skills
If you are handy and have some experience with DIY projects, you may be able to learn how to use a heat press machine yourself. However, if you are not comfortable with DIY projects, it is best to leave the printing to the pros.
Your volume
If you plan on printing a lot of custom items, it may make sense to buy a heat press machine. However, if you only plan on printing a few items, it may be more cost-effective to hire a professional.
How to find the best heat press machine
If you decide to buy an automatic heat press machine, be sure to choose the right size machine for your needs. If you plan on printing large items, you will need a larger machine. In addition, consider which features, such as timers and temperature controls, could help make the printing process easier and factor those features into your decision. Finally, buy from a reputable dealer to ensure that you get a quality machine that will last.
Ultimately, the decision of whether to buy a heat press machine for custom printing is up to you. Before making a decision, be sure to take all of these factors into account so you can find the best heat press machine for your needs.
