Since no one else started a thread about Vinyl Cutting, I will.
My primary endeavor in this area is thermo-film cutting for heat application to garments. Think about all those Little League or Pop Warner teams with the names on the back of the jerseys.
Besides the sports applications, I do 'funny' shirts and some graphic art onto shirts as well.
The machine that I use is the same vinyl cutter that the sign industry utilizes for vinyl signs. And as such, I do some (very little) sign vinyl cutting and application, mostly to family and friends for their business, recreation vehicles and those Booster Window Stickers that parents want on their cars/SUVs, etc.
OK. Now there is a thread under Vinyl Cutters. Please chime in.
Hi Hugh,
I've used a Camm-1 for several years (and still do), plus a SP-540V since Nov. 2006. Primarily for signs but with the SP-540 we do decals and contour cut stuff.
Question for you: If I wanted to experiment with thermo-film, do I need a heat press or can I fake it on small jobs for now with a household iron?
Jeff,
If you want to try experimenting with a household iron, I'd recommend that you try one of the products made for nylon//mesh.
Film made for nylon applicaton can be used on cotton and 50/50......... just as well. Most people don't go that route because the film is usually more expensive.
The heat required is minimal........some products don't even require a cover sheet............and can be pressed directly.........so there's no risk of you screwing up your iron with melted vinyl! Yikes.