Greetings all. New to the whole graphics and sticker business, decided (dont know WHY!!) to start one as a side action to be creative, make a few bucks, but mostly to offer some options to local people and friends. I have a Graphtec CE5000-120 cutter that I bought from a friend for a good price since he upgraded cutters..just have to somehow load the updated software on it. Have been looking at other cutters from sites like USCutter in the 24" range..should I buy another cutter or will the GraphTec be enough? I basically will be doing heat transfer clothing, lettering and graphics on bikes and cars, and some advertisement stickers (signs, boards, windows and doors) as well as some novelty signs. If i enjoy it like i think I will..I will branch further. I dont want to spend thousands of dollars on stuff until I know the product and customer base better. I have setup with Grimco so far..they have a small warehouse here to make it easier..but will need more options i am sure. This is not a full time thing for me. It never will be, I assume. Just a way to make some side money, make some friends, and to do something creative. I purchased Adobe Illistrator CC as that seemed to be the graphic software of choice by the forums I read, but can purchase CorelDRAW as well if thats a better route. So..question I have..should I buy another plotter or is my GraphTec 5000 good enough for now?
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Question regarding equipment for new startup..
- Thread starter CodyG
- Start date
Rick
Certified Enneadecagon Designer
I would say both are capable, it's a matter of preference.
Both sides have an opinion which is best or easier. If you
have CC and have invested a considerable amount of time,
I would stick with it.
Do you have any graphic design skills? If not, you might want
to invest in a Signcraft subscription and maybe a few design/logo
design books for inspiration. There are a few sites that are inspirational,
my favorite being here---> http://www.mr-cup.com/blog.html
The Graphtec is superior to the US Cutter, it's a keeper.
Thank you for the responses guys. I am glad to hear this older plotter is a keeper, free up some money for other items..like the $70 cutter blades!!! I dont have any graphic experience but learn pretty fast, thats why I am on this forum reading everything and watching videos when I find them!! I am going to order some cheapins vinyl from Stahls I reckon to set the plotter up and do some testing before I order the nicer stuff I will use. First I have to get the equipment ordered..figure out the plotter..then figure out where I will be buying my shirts and blanks from..then figure out pricing!! but this forum will be loads of help I am certain!!
Rick
Certified Enneadecagon Designer
If you are brave enough, and have a thick skin, I suggest posting
your designs for critique. We can be a bit rough, but quite a few
of us can give you suggestions, some will even show you in a layout....
It really is worth the sting if you really want to learn.