G'day Everyone,

I need some advice regarding custom decals. I use water-slide decals that I have had custom manufactured in bulk. However, when it comes to getting a custom decal it always gives me problems. I have solved this by ordering individually from the sources recommended to me by many of you folk, but a situation has arisen whereby I am going to need a lot of different decals. Ordering ones and twos has worked but as I'm in Australia and everyone who does this is in the USA... Well the logistics are pretty extreme.
So my question is this: which way should I go? I have read over the years about a system you guys use in the 'States that incorporates a particular type of printer that is no longer manufactured, etc etc. My problem is that I don't think they have been available here in Australia. But can they still be procured/are they still available over there? Or is there a newer better system that uses a 3M adhesive or similar? Or???
I don't mind making an investment if it is going to benefit me in the long run. How much might these options cost?
Aa ever, advice and info would be much appreciated.

Thanks,
Ian 'Barra' Miller

Ian I believe the system you are referring to is the Alps printer,now I can only comment on this in regards to availability in the US.The printer has been discontinued for about 2 years,although I believe the one model MD1000 is still made for sale in Japan.The only way that seems to work in getting one is thru @#$%& or other @#$%& sites.as one might surmise this can be great or a total disaster,the cost of an MD1000 has been averaging about $225 US.Plus shipping which I imagine would be very high in your case.The MD1000 is generally the lowest cost unit,if using a PC the ONLY models that will work are the MD1000-MD1300 or MD5000,you do not need the additional Dye Sub capabilities available with the more expensive units.
The only sure way of repair on a damaged unit is to return it to Alps they will replace with a refurbished unit for a set price,Plus shipping again.You might find that e bay has an Australian site,which would greatly reduce shipping charges.
Transfer materials you said you have a water slide decal paper available again a local source for material will be far better then importing.
Lastly depending on just what you wish to accomplish re decals you may need to consider optional software which can also be quite expensive when using good graphic software,if you have any questions please feel free to e mail me,much more info is available
John

Another suggestion is this. Casio makes a label maker that can be pluged into the computer to print off whatever design you desire(Font, clipart, pics etc.). The problem arises as the decal would (I believe) have to be monochrome. Casio makes about every combination of ink and backround (have gold on clear which is what I am fond of) you can imagine. The label maker is for sale on there website for around $50. Just recently discontinued for a newer model, so are selling what stock is left. At Staples, it is still $99. Anyway, if this might be an option, call Casio tech support and tell them your specific needs, they should be able to help you.
elrod

The problem with the Casio is the the pixel count or resolution. It is not high enough. It looks rather rough. Unless they have another higher end model that gives finer dots. Plus I believe it is only one colour at a time. But then I could be talking about another Casio, somebody pls correct me if I'm wrong.

Another thing, the Casio is not water slide based but adhesive.

BTW Ian, will you be at the Billfish Symposium next week?

Thanks guys, I'm pretty keen to follow the Alps printer as recommended by John. Chris, unfortunately I won't be going to Cairns for the symposium. It is a long way from where I live and I also have the Sydney trade fishing tackle show this weekend. Thanks again.
Ian