How to Choose the Best Heat Press for Your First Year in Custom Printing
How to Choose the Best Heat Press for Your First Year in Custom Printing
Starting your own custom printing business is exciting. But we understand that deciding on the right equipment can be overwhelming. Your heat press will be the foundation of your operation, so choosing the right one for you will make a difference between a professional and sloppy outcome. Here’s how to keep your customers loyal and happy, leading to long-term success.
You don’t want to be one of the many decorators who made the mistake of starting with the cheapest heat press, which is paired with uneven or inconsistent heat, pressure and time. Leading to wasted transfers, garments and valuable hours, all resulting in less profit!
What to Look for in a First-Year Heat Press
- Consistent heat & pressure: essential for professional results
- Smart technology: auto-open, digital readouts, threadable platens
- Size & versatility: start with a platen that fits your largest garment (40x40 is ideal) and add a cap press if you’ll decorate hats
- Brand support & warranty: reliability and backup when you need it
Recommended Heat Presses
Here are some great options to set your business up for success:
- Hotronix Fusion IQ Heat Press: a feature-rich press with touchscreen controls and smart technology, perfect if you want a machine that can grow with your business
- Hotronix Auto Open Clam Heat Press: reliable, professional-grade, and easy to use, giving you consistent results without the guesswork
- Hotronix 360 IQ Hat Press: designed specifically for hats and headwear, making it easy to expand your product range.
Things to Consider as Your Business Grows
Investing in the right accessories from the start can help your heat press grow with your business.
Consider items like:
- Heat press pillows
- Non-stick platen covers
- Cover sheets
- Smaller platen sizes for specialty areas: sleeves, chest logos, or kids’ clothing
These tools make tricky garments easier to press, improve print quality, and save you time and frustration, whilst ensuring you’re prepared to take on a wider range of products without needing to upgrade your main press.