What are some of the things I can print?

I've discovered that there are an unlimited number of things you can print, because of the way the MPP can be "morphed" to accommodate a substrate, but for the sake of some ideas, I've printed all of the following:

Cylindrical Products
Buckets • Mugs • Thermoses • Squeeze bottles

Cubical or other 3-D Objects
Coolers • Tins • Glasses cases • Safety glasses

Apparel
T-shirts • Shirt pockets • Sleeves • Caps

Other Ad Specialty items
Umbrellas • Binders • Plaques • Pressure sensitive materials • Flying disks

Can I do more than one color?

Well, yes and no. The MPP is essentially a one-color machine. All of the products mentioned above required no more than one color, but in some instances you can re-index a product and lay another color down. Although I do not recommend butt registration, a skilled printer can stabilize a molded product well enough to obtain near perfect results. Often, the quality of the product will determine the print quality. As for apparel, it is a one-color machine, but how often have you needed to do a one-color pocket or sleeve print and the main press is tied up on another job? Don't think of the MPP as a t-shirt press; rather, think of it as a multi-tool. How many of you have one of those in your toolbox or glove compartment? A creatively mounted laser pointer will enable you to print multi-color on a cylinder.

How big should my screens be?

I don't use anything bigger than 16" X 18" OD.

What kind of inks should I have?

Since you'll be doing all sorts of plastics, paper, metal, vinyl, and apparel type fibers, you will need to consult with your supplier about which is best for what substrate. I keep several ink types around and order as I need them. By the way, pass the ink purchase on to the customer. Vinyl ink, multi-purpose, lacquer based, two part epoxy, enamel, and of course, plastisol seem to fit the bill for the variety of things I do.

How do I know if I need one of these contraptions?

If you've ever said no to a job that seemed odd but potentially lucrative. Based on the machines list price, it would have paid itself off in two orders had I bought an MPP. One of the strengths of having an MPP is that your customers will come to regard you as a "can do anything" kind of shop. This will often bring in the gravy jobs you so love. As long as the hourly profit ratios stay in line, there is no reason to not print the weird stuff.

What happens if I get myself into trouble and can't figure out how to get a print onto a thingamabob?

The MPP is not for rank beginners. Despite its rather austere appearance, it is a highly capable piece of equipment designed to compliment an already creative print professional. The MPP is not all things to all people. It may not be for you, but if you are looking to expand your repertoire of services without spending lots of K's, then the MPP is a good fit. Consider this; how much would a cylinder press by itself cost? Or a one-color textile press with a cap attachment, pocket and sleeve board? Can that equipment print binder spines or coolers? Now, how easy would it be to haul those things around if you needed to? The MPP breaks down into three basic components that are easy to carry.

Is pad printing a better option for some of the products you mention?

In many instances, yes. However, pad printing machines have limitations. If it is pneumatic, it requires support equipment such as compressors and de-humidifying units. A manual machine typically does smaller objects only. The MPP is capable of screen printing on a curved surface, and can easily acccomodate larger objects.

Is there help if I need it?

Yep. Part of the product you buy with the MPP is my expertise. Send me an e-mail and I'll help with the troubleshooting process.

How long does it take to get an MPP once I place an order?

Three to four weeks depending on demand.