Interest in the screen-printing industry is on the rise. This is due to the demand for screen-printed items as well as the development of printing equipment that make the process easy enough for anyone to learn. However, these machines are sometimes too expensive for new business owners who have other costs to consider. With some creativity and an eye for deals, new silk screen printers can find printing equipment they can afford.
Instructions
1. Purchase new equipment. You can buy screen-printing machines from online vendors or from a local store. A large number of manufacturers of screen-printing equipment also offer business opportunity packages along with their equipment.
2. Buy used. You can find used silk screen equipment in a variety of publications. Check the classifieds section of your local paper, community magazines and industry magazines, such as "Screen Printing Magazine" (see Resources below).
3. Buy into a business opportunity. Check the classifieds section in local papers and industry magazines for screen-printing businesses that are available for sale. The equipment is usually included in the sale.
4. Barter for free equipment. Websites like Craigslist are magnets for those who want to trade some items they would like to dispose of for something else they want. Check such sites regularly for the possibility of obtaining screen-printing equipment for little or nothing.
5. Lease silk screen machines. This is one way to save some money if you are not prepared to pay for a new or used system.
6. Build your own equipment. You can create a screen by stretching silk on a frame. However, it will take a lot of practice to produce professional results with such basic equipment, especially if you plan on using more than one color for your items.
7. Search auctions. Suppliers and printers usually post listings of their screen-printing equipment at online auction sites like eBay and uBid.com. You can also find local auctions with Auction Zip (see Resources below).
8. Join an association. Members of a group enjoy a variety of benefits, including access to information and supplies that can help improve their business. For instance, the Specialty Graphic Imaging Association maintains a searchable database of members who supply screen-printing equipment (see Resources below).
