Trooper_vinyl_solutions 1 Posted December 30, 2016 So, I'm looking for a printer/cutter combo that isn't big and bulky (desktop size?) and that wouldn't require the same maintainace as those large printers. I just want something that I can use every once in a while when someone wants some small stickers that could be made using a 8.5"X11" or 12"x12" vinyl/sticker sheets. Doesnt need to be high end just as long as it's not complete garbage, it won't be used to often. Let me know what ya think! Thanks! Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Dakotagrafx 7,297 Posted December 31, 2016 there are people using coated vinyl with pigment ink and laminating everything but life span is generally short . for decals to sell and have them be durable you need either a solvent, latex or thermo resin printer. the smallest one being the roland bn-20n at about $8500. it is "desktop". it does not fit you requirement of not needing maint and if it sits long it will require expensive repairs. latex is the next one but is not "desktop" but uscutter had one last week I believe was under $8000 - it does not have a cutter built in but it is very forgiving if left sitting - I believe you will need a special line run for electricity though. the last the thermo resin like the gerber edge is quite expensive and cost the most per inch to print. so if using for yourself and durablity is not an issue use the special coated aqueous vinyls and a pigment printer along with laminate - should get you about a year before the coating starts failing even under the laminate 3 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Wildgoose 4,200 Posted January 1, 2017 Trooper, welcome to the sad world of "You can't do that for cheap". Really makes you appreciate a $0.50 vinyl sticker though when you consider all the expense the printer has to bear. I'm trying to maneuver into position to buy a thermal printer next year but it's a big leap. I added an embroidery machine last year and upgraded it early this year. That gamble has paid off so.... big gamble big rewards or big mistake. It doesn't cost very much to outsource and Dakotagrafx has done most of my stuff for me. I tried out a local guy but have had better experience with Dakota. Jburns has a Gerber thermal printer too and it will print chrome and other wonderful stuff and there are a couple others on the forum who offer their services as well. These guys don't promote themselves but most of us have figured out that they will take care of you if you are looking for help. 4 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Trooper_vinyl_solutions 1 Posted January 1, 2017 Appreciate the thought out responses. looks like i will be outsourcing any print jobs that people come to be with. right now anyways, the cost just wouldn't be worth it for me. 1 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
hhsg 43 Posted January 8, 2017 Hey Trooper. If you need anything let me know. I have a roland vsi540. If you can't find someone around close or Dakota. Just give me a yell or PM Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Dakotagrafx 7,297 Posted January 8, 2017 anotherthing to watch for, this what a good head test pattern should look like from anyone you use, not everyone maintains to the same level and it shows in detail 2 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
