Frequently Asked Questions

Pad Printing FAQs

How much does it cost to get started with pad printing?
Are the 990 Series pad and cylindrical printers two seperate machines?
How long does the pad printing ink take to dry?
Does everything that is pad or cylindrical printed need to be heat cured?
Can I use my textile dryer for curing pad or cylindrical prints?
Can I pad print with my screenprinting inks?
What is a printing plate for a pad printer made of?
How long does a pad printing plate last?
Can a pad printing plate be reclaimed?
What are pad printing transfer pads made of?
How long does a pad printing transfer pad last?
How many parts can I pad print an hour?
How do I get my artwork to make a plate or screen?
How much ink do you need to do a pad or cylindrical print run?
Where do I find the blank products to print on?
Once I place my order, how long does it take to get one?
How do I pay for it?
What type of computer program do I need to produce my artwork?
Where do I buy my supplies?
990 Series Lifetime Warranty
Warranty Information for Dryers manufactured by Printa Systems, Inc.
Pubic Relations Contacts
Demo or Training Video's won't play in Vista or cause's "Blue Screen Of Death"
Upgrading CorelDRAW X3 Graphics Suite to Service Pack 2 for Windows Vista

Dye Sumblimation FAQ's

How do I pay for it?
What are sublimation transfer inks?
How do sublimation transfers work?
How are sublimation transfers different from transfer papers?
How is a sublimation transfer different from direct printing onto fabric?
What are the limitations of sublimation?
What do I need to know about color management software?
What should I know about UV stability when using sublimation inks?
Why should I choose sublimation over a CLC transfer paper system?
What do I need to get started in sublimation?
Do I need special transfer paper for sublimation?
Dye sublimation vs. Direct Printing
What type of computer program do I need to produce my artwork?
Where do I buy my supplies?
550 Series Lifetime Warranty Info
Upgrading CorelDRAW X3 Graphics Suite to Service Pack 2 for Windows Vista

Screen Printing FAQ's

How do I pay for it?
How much does it cost to get started in screen printing?
How much space do I need for the 770 Series screen printing system?
What makes the 770 Series different from other screen printers?
Is it difficult to learn if I've never screen printed before?
How many T-Shirts can I print in an hour?
What other items can I print with the 770 Series Screen Printing System?
What is the maximum print size?
What type of artwork do I need?
What type of computer program do I need to produce my artwork?
What are my screen printing job set-up costs?
Where do I buy my blank products to screen print onto?
What is my profit potential in screen printing?
Where do I buy my supplies?
Can I set the screen printing system up at home?
How can I place an order to own a 770 Series?
770 & 880 Series Lifetime Warranty
Warranty Information for Dryers manufactured by Printa Systems, Inc.
Demo or Training Video's won't play in Vista or cause's "Blue Screen Of Death"
Upgrading CorelDRAW X3 Graphics Suite to Service Pack 2 for Windows Vista

How much does it cost to get started with pad printing?

Printa Systems offers a variety of packages designed to suit your needs. The basic 990 Series Silver System is $3,995.00. This package price includes the pad printer, exposure unit, and all of your inks, pads, printing plates, and supplies. Everything you need to get started pad printing curved, irregular, and flat surfaces up to 3" x 4". Pad printing enables you to print 90 degrees around a curve, so to do cylindrical products, you'll want to add the cylindrical screen print addon to the package for a total of $5,995.00 and if you need a dryer for curing, the total package is $8500.00.

Are the 990 Series pad and cylindrical printers two separate machines?

No, the 990 Series is a modular system based on a unibody frame. It can be converted between pad printing and cylindrical screen printing in about 5 minutes.

How long does the pad printing ink take to dry?

When pad printing, it only takes 30-45 seconds for the ink to dry to the touch. Many products require post treatment of heat after printing to cure effectively. Once heat cured, it can take several days for it to fully cure.

Does everything that is pad or cylindrical printed need to be heat cured?

The ink packaged with the 990 Series is a 2-part epoxy ink that requires heat to cross link and bond with the product. Some products (such as ABS plastic) are solvent sensitive and will air dry and cure without
heat, and there are single component inks available for some products as well. The 2 part epoxies are the most versatile and durable. We include two hardening systems. One is for plastics, acrylics, and painted surfaces, the other for glass, metal, and ceramics. Plastics take about 160-200 degrees for 2-6 minutes; glass, metal, and ceramics need 350 degrees for 10 minutes.

Can I use my textile dryer for curing pad or cylindrical prints?

Yes, many screen printers do. You can also use a hair dryer or heat gun for small runs. However, a convection curing oven like the 990 Series Curing Oven is a more professional and reliable method for curing products.

Can I pad print with my screenprinting inks?

Some screenprinting ink can be pad printable using a different reducer - check with the manufacturer. You cannot use textile inks like Plastisol as it will not dry and release from the transfer pad. The inks packaged with the 990 Series work using a different retarder for screen printing to keep the screen open.

What is a printing plate for a pad printer made of?

The pad printer printing plate is metal coated with a light sensitive water-soluble polymer.

How long does a pad printing plate last?

The pad printing plates are good for about 5000 prints each.

Can a pad printing plate be reclaimed?

No, unlike a screen, a plate cannot have a new image burned in it once it is exposed. If you have a small image, you can burn more than one image in a plate, being sure you have clearance with the pad to pick up one image at a time.

What are pad printing transfer pads made of?

Pad printing transfer pads are made of pure silicon.

How long does a pad printing transfer pad last?

Transfer pads are good for 40,000 - 50,000 prints. They should be stored out of direct sunlight, without anything touching them, as they will absorb that shape.

How many parts can I pad print an hour?

Most people can pad print 200-300 parts an hour depending upon the product and the operator.

How do I get my artwork to make a plate or screen?

You can generate your artwork off your computer and print it out using a laser printer (600 dpi or better) onto laser film, which we include in the package. You are looking for good opaque artwork to block the light from the plate or screen.

How much ink do you need to do a pad or cylindrical print run?

For pad printing, you need 25-30 grams of ink to run it in the auto-inking mode. This will yield hundreds of prints. For cylinder screenprinting you need only 10-15 grams of ink.

Where do I find the blank products to print on?

In addition to the Printa Systems preferred vendor list, you receive the ACCESS Program, which gives you 20 product catalogs for marketing and access to over 70 vendors. We also can help you track down unusual products.

Once I place my order, how long does it take to get one?

We are the manufacturers and have the 990 Series in stock. Shipping time is 4 to 7 business days once a signed order and payment are received.

How do I pay for it?

We accept the following major credit sources Visa, MasterCard, Discover and approved for goverment credit card purchases.

For other finance and lease options, we have in-house consulting to help you find the right lender to suit your specific needs.

Net 30 terms are available for institutional sales with purchase order and upon credit approval on a case by case basis.

What type of computer program do I need to produce my artwork?

While there are many good graphics programs available today, we recommend Corel Draw Suite. We are an authorized Corel Reseller and have Corel Draw Suite in stock at competitive prices.

The essential requirements you need are the ability to manipulate the design, size and properly color separate the artwork. In the case of multi color designs that would also include adding the registration targets for proper alignment when burning your screens. Often times, your customer will provide you with the proper artwork for the job.

Where do I buy my supplies?

Printa Systems provides a one-stop-shop with competitive prices on all the supplies needed and they can be purchased on our online store. In addition you may choose to source the more common items such as inks and other consumables from your local screen print supply house.

990 Series Lifetime Warranty

WARRANTY - The 990 Series manufactured by Printa Systems, Inc. is backed by the following warranty:

Printa Systems, Inc. warranties this product, to the original purchaser and subject to the terms set forth below, to be free from defects in materials and workmanship for a period of one (1) year for all electronic parts and for the lifetime of all stationary non-moving and main body parts of the product. In the event of a failure of the product during the warranty period due to defect in material or workmanship, subject to the exclusions and limitations set forth below, Printa Systems or other entity from whom you originally purchased the product new, will, at the option of Printa Systems, either repair or replace the defective part or parts.

Limitation of Warranty - Except as specifically stated above, Printa Systems shall not be responsible for incidental or consequential damages or any other loss or damage resulting from any product or parts whether defective or not and whether repair or replacement of such product or part is itself covered by this Warranty. The full extent and limit of liability for any defect or defects in the aggregate, shall not exceed the original purchase price of the equipment. This warranty is non-assignable and non-transferable.

Exclusions - This warranty does not cover damage from the following: Ordinary Wear and Tear, Shipping, Corrosion, Abuse or Neglect in the operation of the equipment, Improper or Failure of Maintenance, Improper Grounding or Surge protection of the electric supply device, Exposure to Moisture or other damp environments that affects the electronic equipment or supply.

Warranty Claims - Any and all requests for warranty work to be performed must be made to Printa Systems in writing within the specified warranty time period stated above. The original purchaser must, at its own cost, return each defective part to Printa Systems which shall, in its reasonable, good faith and sole discretion, determine if the returned part is defective in material or workmanship. Such written request and return of part(s) is an express condition precedent for the benefits and application of this warranty and shall be strictly enforced. Please retain the original shipping carton.

Exclusive Warranty - This warranty represents the full extent of Printa Systems' liability and the original purchaser's right to replacement or repair as specified above is the sole and exclusive remedy against Printa Systems and under this Warranty. This warranty is given in lieu of any other warranties otherwise provided under federal or state law and there are no warranties, whether express or implied, (including warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose) unless specifically stated herein.

Severability - If any portion of this agreement shall be found to be invalid or unenforceable, in whole or in part, the validity of any other term of this agreement shall not in any way be affected thereby.

Warranty Information for Dryers manufactured by Printa Systems, LLC.

WARRANTY - The 770 Series IC, 880 Series IC, 990 Series CC and 77990 Omni~Cure Dryers manufactured by Printa Systems, LLC. is backed by the following warranty:

Printa Systems, LLC. warranties this product, to the original purchaser and subject to the terms set forth below, to be free from defects in materials and workmanship for a period of one (1) year for all electronic parts and for 5 years of all stationary non-moving and main body parts of the product. In the event of a failure of the product during the warranty period due to defect in material or workmanship, subject to the exclusions and limitations set forth below, Printa Systems or other entity from whom you originally purchased the product new, will, at the option of Printa Systems, either repair or replace the defective part or parts.

Public Relations Contacts

For more information or for a listing of upcoming trade show dates, visit www.printa.com.

Email: email protected from spam bots (info AT printa.com) or call (800) 601-6240.

Contact:
Nancy Bullock
Printa Systems, LLC.
1988 N. Yellowstone Hwy
Idaho Falls, ID 83401
nancy@printa.com
208-522-3522
www.printa.com

Demo or Training Video's won't play in Vista or cause's "Blue Screen Of Death"

When attempting to play a Demo CD or Training CD and you recieve a "Blue Screen Of Death" or "BSOD" in Windows Vista (Business Edition seems to be the most common) we have identified a possible solution:

1. Open Windows Media Player select a test video, these are included with Windows Vista Video Library. This is located in the upper left of the text that usually says Music - click the image of music bars and select Video and then play any of the test videos (Typically Bear, Butterfly or Lake) to verify that the player and the video card are working OK.

2. Then Insert the Printa training CD and when the auto play feature pops up then select the "browse cd with windows explorer" option (towards the bottom of that pop up).

3. In Windows Explorer, select the "video" folder and then the 990 Cylindrical video (or what ever video is in that folder) and verify the player plays that video just fine.

4. Now, go back into windows explorer and select the 990_Series_Training.exe (or 770_Series_Training.exe) and now the videos should work fine.

If this does not allow you to see the video then let us know the Windows Vista Version (ie basic, premium, business, ulitmate etc...) and the video card model.

Upgrading CorelDRAW X3 Graphics Suite to Service Pack 2 for Windows Vista

CorelDRAW X3 Graphics Suite with Service Pack 2 is Vista Certified, if you have an earlier version of CorelDRAW X3 you can download Service Pack 2 from Corel's website.
1. This is easily done by clicking Support
2. Then on the left side of the screen clicking Patches and Updates,
3. Then clicking your product "CorelDRAW Graphics Suite X3".
4. Then to the right of "CorelDRAW Graphics Suite X3 SP2 Full/Upgrade (All languages, requires SP1 to be installed first)" Clicking the Download Button.
5. You are brought to a page to select your language and remind you to install CorelDRAW X3 Service Pack 1 if you have not already.
6. You can click the jump to "Continue your download" link now.
7. Now you should see the "Begin Download" link click it and then follow these simple directions:
This will update your CorelDRAW Graphics Suite X3 application to Service Pack 2. SP2 will also upgrade your CorelDRAW Graphics Suite X3 installation to Certified for Windows Vista™. IMPORTANT: To install this update, the original CD#1 may be required. In addition, SP2 requires SP1 to be installed first.

Quick Instructions:
To install Corel Graphics Suite X3 SP2, download the update onto your system by saving it to your hard drive.
Double-click the installer file to begin the update.
Follow the instructions to review the Software License Agreement, complete the install.
If you encounter any technical difficulties installing this update, please contact Corel Support Services or visit the CorelDRAW X3 support newsgroup.

What are sublimation transfer inks?

Sublimation describes the process of a solid substance changing directly into a gas or vapor, without first passing through the intermediary liquid state. An example of this process which most recognize is "dry ice."

In the printing world, the term sublimation is used to describe heat-activated inks that change into a gas when heated and have the ability to bond with polyester or acrylic surfaces.

Sublimated images are extremely washable, scratch resistant and dishwasher safe because the image is protected within the surface.

Printing with sublimation ink is not new, sublimation transfers have played an important role in the printing world for decades. What is new to the printing world however is the ability to digitally print sublimation inks rather that screen-printing them.

How do sublimation transfers work?

Sublimation uses a patented heat transfer process that employs special heat sensitive inks or toners to permanently dye polymer-coated surfaces. Simply print your clip art, scanned images, or computer created artwork on an inkjet or laser printer using high-quality paper and sublimation inks or toners. The resulting
transfer sheet can be applied to a variety of surfaces with a standard heat press.

How are sublimation transfers different from transfer papers?

Heat transfers created with color laser, ink jet, or wax thermal printers use a polymer coated transfer paper to fuse ordinary toner or ink particles onto the surface of a substrate. The result is a "decal-like" transfer that can peel, crack, fade, and discolor over time. Sublimation transfers instead rely on special transfer inks or toners to transfer below the surface of a substrate. The result is a "tattoo-like" transfer that will not peel, crack, or fade and lasts for many years.

How is a sublimation transfer different from direct printing onto fabric?

'Direct printing' is an alternative category that includes a variety of ways to digitally print on textiles. Direct printing involves printing directly to fabric with an ink jet printer. A common misconception is that this is a more efficient process than sublimation, but both methods require finishing. The finishing process for direct printing includes heat pressing. Standard ink jet inks or specialty inks can be used but vary greatly in quality and durability. Moreover, sublimation transfers offer a level of color, richness, vibrancy and permanency that direct printing cannot rival.

What are the limitations of sublimation?

Sublimation inks and toners transfer well to light colored, synthetic surfaces such as polyester and acrylic. They do not transfer to natural surfaces such as cotton, or dark colored surfaces. Over long periods of time, sublimation inks and toners have limited color-fastness when exposed to direct sunlight.

What do I need to know about color management software?

Every ink used in the printing industry requires color management to produce good clarity and consistent results. Color management software is an invaluable tool when printing with sublimation. Color management software gives sublimation printers the tools to produce brilliant spot color fills and transfers with true photo.
The only color management software available in the sublimation industry is PowerDriver PRO/PowerDriver PRO PS from Sawgrass! PowerDriver PRO/ PRO PS is provided to all Sawgrass users at no cost with the purchase of a set of inks or toners.

What should I know about UV stability when using sublimation inks?

Over long periods of time, sublimation inks and toners have limited color-fastness when exposed to direct sunlight. However, there are many factors that can affect the lifetime of your sublimated product: climate, season, geography, transfer time, temperature and pressure, the substrate and image density. Sawgrass has developed SubliJet XL inks for our inkjet sublimation systems to provided extended outdoor durability. If you are planning an application that will be exposed to direct sunlight for the product lifetime, be sure to discuss all available options with your Authorized Reseller.

Why should I choose sublimation over a CLC transfer paper system?

Transfer paper systems, or Color Laser Copier (CLC) systems, are useful for particular novelty-type applications, but are not ideal as a primary digital transfer system. First, the cost of entry into a CLC system is 5 -10 times as much as a desktop inkjet system, beginning around $5000. Second, CLC requires unique paper for each substrate you plan to transfer onto. Finally, and most importantly, CLC transfers have limited wash-fastness and durability. This is especially noticeable in apparel decorated with CLC transfers. The CLC transfers will have a heavy, plastic-like feel and will require special care instructions to minimize damaging the transfer. In most cases, apparel decorated with a CLC transfer will have to be washed inside out and line-dried.

What do I need to get started in sublimation?

It is easier than you might think. To create sublimated products with this technology, you will need the sublimation ink or toner cartridge set, color management software, a compatible desktop or large format printer, PC or Mac based computer, graphic design software, and heat transfer equipment (flat press, mug press, or hat press). The addition of a color scanner or digital camera lets you create transfers from photos or other scanned artwork.

Do I need special transfer paper for sublimation?

Because sublimation utilizes heat activated inks and toners, there is no special paper required. Sublimation works with high-quality ink jet and laser paper for optimal transfer quality.

Dye sublimation vs. Direct Printing

Dye chances the color of the substrate on the product by impregnating the material. Printing places pigment or ink onto the products surface. Dyed goods tend to be more scratch and abrasion resistant as well as more colorfast through repeated washings.

550 Series Lifetime Warranty Info

WARRANTY - The 550 Series manufactured by Printa Systems, Inc. is backed by the following warranty:

Printa Systems, Inc. warranties this product, to the original purchaser and subject to the terms set forth below, to be free from defects in materials and workmanship for a period of one (1) year for all electronic parts and for the lifetime of all stationary non-moving and main body parts of the product. In the event of a failure of the product during the warranty period due to defect in material or workmanship, subject to the exclusions and limitations set forth below, Printa Systems or other entity from whom you originally purchased the product new, will, at the option of Printa Systems, either repair or replace the defective part or parts.

How much does it cost to get started in screen printing?

770 Series packages start at $5,995. Every system comes complete with an exposure unit, on board curing unit, screens, inks, and all the other supplies you need to start printing right away. The 770 Series also has a built-in air-circulated drying case that eliminates the need for a darkroom for screen preparation.

How much space do I need for the 770 Series screen printing system?

The 770 Series requires approximately 50 square feet to operate and stores in 10 square feet as a Standard System (4 color/single station) and 25 square feet as the Deluxe System (4 color/4 station).

What makes the 770 Series different from other screen printers?

The 770 Series is designed as a screen printing system, not just a screen printer. The 770 Series patent pending Slim Line Exposure Unit and Pin-Aligned Screens allow you to burn your screen directly on the print arm (where the product is printed), remove it for wash out, dry it and replace it on the press in precisely the same position, eliminating costly set up time. The 770 Series is a self contained system containing an onboard curing unit, built in drying cabinet and an exposure unit that doubles as a light table. These revolutionary features of the 770 Series simplify the printing process and reduces the space required dramatically.

Is it difficult to learn if I've never screen printed before?

Many of Printa Systems customers are new to screen-printing and are surprised to learn how easy it is to get started. The 770 Series patent pending features make printing simple and reduce training time. It comes with a detailed training video, user manual and unlimited toll free technical support. One day of comprehensive training at our facility in Kirkland, WA is included with every system.

How many T-Shirts can I print in an hour?

Of course it depends upon how many colors you are printing, but you can expect to print approximately 50 shirts per hour with the 770 Series Standard System, 80 per hour with the 770 Series Deluxe System and the addition of 3 print stations and free standing flash cure unit. With the addition of the 770 Series Conveyor Dryer (included in the Deluxe Plus System), you can increase your productivity to between 110-120 shirts per hour.

What other items can I print with the 770 Series Screen Printing System?

T-Shirts are certainly not the only products one can print on the 770 Series. The unique adjustability of the 770 Series allows you to print items up to 5" high as well as tapered products such as notebooks, giving it unmatched versatility. With the optional Print-All System (included in the 770 Series Deluxe System) you can print tote bags, caps, sweat pant legs, pockets, plaques, binders, signs and more.

What is the maximum print size?

The 770 Series standard screens are 19" x 22" with a printable area of approximately 14" x 16". With the optional 18" x 24" Sign Kit, your printable area is increased to 18" x 24".

What type of artwork do I need?

To make a screen, you need your artwork in the form of a film positive. This can be produced on your computer and printed on Laser Film, Vellum, or transparency material. The positive artwork can be printed on either a laser or ink jet printer.

What are my screen printing job set-up costs?

Your average cost per job is about $5.00 per color. This cost includes your screen printing supplies such as capillary film, inks, supplies, and the reclaiming of the screen for your next job. As an advanced screen printer who prefers direct emulsion to capillary film, your set up cost will be reduced by approximately $2.00 per color.

Where do I buy my blank products to screen print onto?

Printa Systems provides an extensive list of suppliers, located throughout the nation, with your 770 Series System.

What is my profit potential in screen printing?

The 770 Series simply and efficiently allows you to set up and print jobs in a fraction of the time of regular screen printers. Whether you're doing a dozen or a hundred dozen, you have great profit potential. You can expect your 770 Series System to pay for itself within 1000-1500 prints.

Can I set the screen printing system up at home?

Yes. The 770 Series' screen printing system is space conscious and employs environmentally friendly products so you can easily and safely operate out of your home.

How can I place an order to own a 770 Series?

Please call our offices (U.S. & Canada: 1-800-601-6240, International: 1-425-828-8933) and a sales representative will be happy to assist you. We accept all major credit cards (VISA, MasterCard & Discover), you may prepay with cashier's or company check, or we accept a purchase orders from recognized lease institutions. If you need assistance with leasing, please ask your Printa Systems sales representative for a referral.

You can also place an order on-line.

770 & 880 Series Lifetime Warranty

WARRANTY - The 770 & 880 Series manufactured by Printa Systems, Inc. is backed by the following warranty:

Warranty Information for Dryers manufactured by Printa Systems, Inc.

WARRANTY - The 770 Series IC, 880 Series IC, 990 Series CC and 77990 Omni~Cure Dryers manufactured by Printa Systems, LLC. is backed by the following warranty:

Printa Systems, LLC. warranties this product, to the original purchaser and subject to the terms set forth below, to be free from defects in materials and workmanship for a period of one (1) year for all electronic parts and for 5 years of all stationary non-moving and main body parts of the product. In the event of a failure of the product during the warranty period due to defect in material or workmanship, subject to the exclusions and limitations set forth below, Printa Systems or other entity from whom you originally purchased the product new, will, at the option of Printa Systems, either repair or replace the defective part or parts.