I wish to start a design and print business - what kind of machine do I need?

[Trillion 0]

Hello all, for a while now I have worked with stickers, decals and signage. Because of my interest in graphic design, and the contacts I have who work in the field and would be happy to work with me, I'd like to start a design and print business. I intend to be able to make business cards, flyers, banners, menus - anything that could be considered advertising really.

Would a Roland print and cut machine do the job, or would I need something more specialised for business cards and the like? What could be accomplished with a traditional print machine?

My budget realistically is around £7000/$9000 here in the UK.

Thanks!

[Dakotagrafx 7,297]

I will defer this to someone that does business cards but the roland solvent would be a very very expensive way to do business cards and fliers.  I would think a good HP with pigment ink would be more appropriate - 
I know we have members that have gotten into doing this so will wait for them to chime in with the right equipment for the job

[slice&dice 2,450]

Paper-stock printing is a different kettle of fish from vinyl-print media.

You might look into a proper machine for that --- 

[Trillion 0]

Hi, thanks for your input guys. As you have mentioned, would love to hear from those in the business! Thanks Slice & Dice, it looks like I may have to look into a business loan... what do these run in terms of cost to buy the machine and cost for ink?

Dakota, thanks for your reply - in terms of ink costs for a machine like this, what would I be looking at?

Thanks!

[Sue2 920]

I run a quick print/copy shop and we offer quick signs, banners, t-shirts, etc. as add-on items.

To start out, you don't need quite that robust a printer as pictured above...a high-end color laser printer ($13,000 or so) can do a lot. 

BUT, It's not just the "Printer" you need to consider. 

The support equipment & programs for the various items you will be making in-house also have to be purchased.

Cutter, folder, score/perforater, laminator, numbering software or equipment are just a few....PLUS all the paper stocks you need on hand.

EXAMPLE, We just designed & made Table Tents for our local hospital...they were printed full color, one side on white card stock, scored (to fold correctly), laminated, cut down to 4.25" x 14", folded along the scores & taped to form a tent with double faced tape.

Not all jobs are this complicated but you have to be able to "Finish" your product not just print it...even business cards need to be cut down to size.

Sue2