Printing onto stainless steel

[ScottNelson&Co]

Hi guys

I'm new to the printing game. I've got a niche in mind that I would like to explore.

Does anyone know what the best equipment is to use to print on stainless steel. I would like a print that is durable.

For example something like this:

 

[Kernowman]

Silk screen printers will do it

 

[oldeagleeye]

I have a couple of the themal mugs with printing on. They can even print photos on alluminium sheet using UV technology and it is not even as expensive as canvas.

Just a question og a Google mate.

Oh those mugs sell for a £1 in Pound Town.

 

[ScottNelson&Co]

Just a question og a Google mate.

Thanks for the info. Google was my first point of call. There seems to be quite a few options and quite a few different inks.

Really I was just looking for a tried and tested method so I don't have to go through the trial and error process myself

 

[oldeagleeye]

Over 2000 suppliers here almost all offer printing.

There are so many things this forum can do when it comes to advice - for all else why not try a Google yourself

http://www.made-in-china.com/products-search/hot-china-products
/Stainless_Steel_Mug.html

http://www.ukbusinessforums.co.uk/f...[URL=http://imageshack.us]ImageShack.us[/URL] Uploaded with ImageShack.us

 

[ADW]

Depends on how many you want to print, how many colours and exact style of item. Screen and sublimation are easy options.

 

[PerfectP]

We do these using sublimation TBH - easy as pie.
Fairly small setup cost as well if you wanted to do it in house.

 

[sharonferrell]

I think silk screen printers will do it...just try for it..

 

[Flying Hippy]

Hi,

I was looking into printing onto stainless steel a few years ago.

You need to think whats the item to be used for as both techniques mentioned will fade or scratch of as the stainless steel is not treated. IF the printed life of the item is less than a year promotional toy ect then your ok. IF it needs to be hard wearing item that last years your better looking at having the area etched first then sprayed in the specific areas.

 

[ScottNelson&Co]

Thanks for all of your help.

Searching for sublimation lead me to a company called Xpress. I'll give them a call sometime to ask about the specifics. The equipment doesn't seem too expensive. I should have a operational company for less than a grand. I can see why so many people get into the printing biz - although I'd imagine competition is immense for the likes of T-shirts, mugs etc.

Stay tuned, I'm aiming to have my little niche shop up and running before the end of the year.

 

[PerfectP]

Xpres are good, but there are many others - The Magic Touch/The Transfer Press and Novachrome instantly spring to mind.
They all use the same equipment manufacturer, just badge it differently and send it out to Joe Public.