Full Version: Vision Engraving Systems
From: gt350ed [#15]
1 Aug 2005
To: JHayes55 [#14] 3 Aug 2005
We also spent a lot of time with Xenetech and Gravograph NH but just could not come to grips with various aspects of the equipment, price, and the overall approach. We know that both brands have a great reputation but, sometimes you just have to go with your own evaluation of where you are at, combined with what just feels right.
We wanted to talk with Quality 1 but they were a no show. At least we never found them to be there. And we were ready to buy at the show.
By the way, we also purchased a 24" CE3000 Graphtec cutter/plotter. Got a great deal on that as well.
Who knows what we'll be doing with the Phoenix 1212? We'll take it wherever it will go. As you may recall, our business operates out of two facilities. One is the store. The other is the production shop in a building at our residence. Although our laser covers 90% of what we are called upon to do, we've always recognized a need for a rotary. And in our case, the rotary will be placed in the store. Initially, it will be used for "same day" stuff and sports medals, name badges, etc.
Initially, the cutter/plotter will be used for banners (sports, as well as business promotional).
We also bit the bullet and made a significant investment in clipart. Frankly, we have needed it. It was long overdue and I'm not sure how we made it this far without it. We purchased from Smart Designs and upgraded our Corel from 9 to 12 while we were at it.
Anyway, enough for now. I have to go earn the money to cover all the checks I wrote this weekend.
Hey, August 1st, our Second Anniversary with a storefront. Now, where's the number of that bankruptcy attorney?
From: Engravin' Dave (DATAKES) [#16]
1 Aug 2005
To: gt350ed [#15] 1 Aug 2005
Ed,
Those are some great investments that will serve your future well. Thanks for sharing a bit of your vision.
You are right-on with the decision to have the 1212 at your showroom. I don't anticipate it will ever find its way back to your other facility.
From: gt350ed [#17]
1 Aug 2005
To: Engravin' Dave (DATAKES) [#16] 1 Aug 2005
Thanks, David! We're very excited. This kind of represents the next big step in the evolution of our fledgling business; happening on the occasion of the store's 2nd anniversary. The laser, sandblasting and sublimation got us this far and, while they will continue in their roles (I make them sound like living things), we now have additional tools.
Of course, with new tools comes the "new" (for us anyway) learning curve. Although we have no illusions regarding the work ahead, we're energized by what these things can mean to our revenue stream and our continued growth.
And through it all, isn't it nice to know that this wonderful peer group exists to exchange ideas and ask and answer questions, etc. ?
Have a great evening!
From: Stunt Engraver (DGL) [#18]
1 Aug 2005
To: gt350ed [#15] 1 Aug 2005
Congratulations on the new equipment and your anniversary. There will be many more to follow. I'm certain. :-)
From: gt350ed [#19]
1 Aug 2005
To: Stunt Engraver (DGL) [#18] 1 Aug 2005
From: UCONN Dave & Lynn too (DANDL48) [#20]
3 Aug 2005
To: gt350ed [#17] 3 Aug 2005
Ed,
Looks like you ran wild at the show! Good thing we didn't take you up on the lunch you offered!
Good luck with the new purchases.
Dave
From: gt350ed [#21]
3 Aug 2005
To: UCONN Dave & Lynn too (DANDL48) [#20] 4 Aug 2005
Good morning, Dave! Well, although it seemed "wild" and does represent a significant chunk of change, it was something that has been part of our business plan from the start. Now was the time to make the investment. Our attitude has got to be...we're either in this business with the proper tools, or we're not. Recognizing that one will never have ALL the things needed for anything that comes thru the door, we feel that we've got it pretty well covered for the foreseeable future. And what's really important is the fact that all of these purchases will contribute to making us more money. As we all have done, I've made purchases in the past that had no hope of providing a return on investment. Spending hard earned money on something that can make money has a greater appeal to me these days. Is that an old age thing, er, I mean "wisdom"?
Hey, we enjoyed you visit. So, where are you? Northern California? Or back home?
From: JHayes55 [#22]
3 Aug 2005
To: gt350ed [#15] 11 Aug 2005
Gee............... You didn't buy me anything. :'-( I bet the moths flew when you opened that wallet up!!!! (devil)
Congrats' on the new purchases and two year store front.
I know Joe Brill from a year or two back when he visited my shop with a new NH rep (he was the District Rep) - seemed like a nice guy with some knowledge. I have had Smart Design for about 5 yrs and I do like it. Did you get CoCut Pro to run your vinyl plotter????? If not buy it from the same folks how sold you Smart Design - I have had some other vinyl cutter programs and CoCut Pro is by far the best I ever used (lower learning curves and you do all you design in Corel and export to cut screen in CoCut Pro - it is seamless. If I can be of any assistance with the vinyl stuff let me know. Smart Design has so much in it, you may find it takes a while to figure the whole thing out. Good luck and good to hear from you!!!
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