Advice Help

[crex]

Hello everyone, this is my first post and first time on this forum. I am really interested in starting a vinyl decal shop. my main focus would be on custom graphics and pre-made decals for cars, windows to be specific. I recently began my search.I am a bit overwhelmed and lost with all the information available. i would really appreciate if anyone could give any tips, advice and basically point me in the right direction. I have no experience what so ever starting from scratch.

Again thank you all in advance.

 

[steveo251]

For what it's worth

Welcome Crex,

I'm pretty new here myself, but the forum is full of very knowledgeable people, I'm sure you will get some great advice!

From my companies experience, one of the best all around printer/plotters out there is a Summa.
They have a DC series that will print and cut the labels out for you... check out www.summausa.com.

This is the only machine I am familiar with, so I can't speak for others.
The biggest reason we like it is because it work off ribbons, not ink in tubes. So no concerns about clogged heads or tubes, or wasting ink to clean heads.... When you're done you just shut it off and walk away.
No need to move the printed stock from the printer to the plotter, because these machines do both. Send the job to the printer and let it work... that simple.
They have white, PMS colors and Metallic options as well.

GOOD LUCK!!

 

[James Burke]

Welcome to the forum, it's a great place for learning.

I'd suggest you take an afternoon and sift through some of the posts concerning this topic. Do so with an open mind, because there tends to be a bit of snarkiness out there.

You are on the threshold of a market rife with competition and low ballers. Just check ebay to see what I mean.

Now is a good time to take a step back and re-evaluate your plans and consider a market that is better suited to your income needs. With that said, be prepared to experience a considerable learning curve and make sure you have a business plan that will help you stay on track.

I applaud your entrepreneurial efforts. It can be a long and lonely road to travel, but it surely has its rewards.

JB

 

[crex]

thank you

thank you both for the advice. I can already tell there is a big competition market out there. since i am very new and unexperienced would you guys consider the R31 Vinyl Cutter, LXi Expert Software & Starter Kit ($350+$39) = $389. a bad choice to begin with. i found this on sign warehouse.com. or would it be just a wate of money.

 

[thesignexpert]

Check out TheSignExpert.com

All sorts of free info, tools, calculators etc. specifically designed to help new shops get on their feet in a professional manner. Of course, continue coming back here to Signs101.com for the unbelievable experience and expertise that these folks have.

 

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