Essential Equipment and Supplies: What You Need to Get Started in Crafting

Are you dreaming of turning your creativity into a money-making craft business—but feel overwhelmed by where to begin? Whether you're drawn to sublimation, DTF printing, laser engraving, or vinyl work, getting started is easier than you think.

In this guide, we’ll break down the essential equipment and supplies you need to start crafting, so you can launch your business with confidence and clarity.

Step 1: Choose Your Crafting Specialty

Before buying any equipment, ask yourself:

• What products do I want to make—tumblers, t-shirts, home décor?
• Which technique excites me the most—sublimation, DTF, laser engraving, or HTV?
• How much can I invest to get started?

Here’s a quick breakdown of popular methods and what they’re best for:

• Sublimation – Perfect for mugs, tumblers, shirts, and photo gifts
• DTF Printing – Great for full-color t-shirt designs (especially on dark fabrics)
• Laser Engraving – Ideal for wood, acrylic, and leather items
• HTV (Heat Transfer Vinyl) – Best for simple, one-color designs on shirts and bags

Once you’ve picked your path, it’s time to gather your tools.

Step 2: Must-Have Equipment for Beginners

Sublimation Setup

• Sublimation Printer – Use one like the Craft Express Sublimation Printer for vibrant, high-quality prints.
• Heat Press – The Craft Express Auto-Open Heat Press is ideal for shirts, tote bags, and more.
• Mug/Tumbler Press – Needed for curved items like mugs and tumblers.
• Sublimation Blanks – Think mugs, shirts, ornaments, and puzzles.
• Sublimation Ink & Paper – Always choose high-quality for vivid results.

DTF Printing Setup

• DTF Printer – Prints full-color transfers onto film.
• DTF Ink & Film – Use special inks and PET film.
• Curing Oven & Heat Press – Cures the design before applying it to fabric.

Pro Tip: DTF is perfect for dark fabrics, which sublimation can’t handle without white toner.

Laser Engraving Setup

• Beginner-Friendly Laser – The xTool D1 Pro is excellent for wood, acrylic, and leather.
• Blanks for Engraving – Try signs, nameplates, and wallets.
• Rotary Attachment – Needed for engraving curved items like tumblers.

HTV (Heat Transfer Vinyl) Setup

• Cutting Machine – Any cutting machine on the market will get the job done.
• Heat Press – Essential for applying vinyl to fabric.
• Vinyl Rolls – Craft Express is a reliable, vibrant option.

Pro Tip: HTV is ideal for single-color designs. For full-color, try DTF or sublimation.

Step 3: Supplies for Pro Results

No matter your method, high-quality supplies make all the difference.

For Sublimation:

• Sublimation paper & ink (Craft Express ink is a top pick!)
• Heat-resistant tape to hold designs in place
• Teflon sheets or butcher paper to protect your press

For DTF & HTV:

• Transfer film & powder (DTF)
• Heat transfer vinyl (HTV)
• Weeding tools and cutting mats

For Laser Engraving:

• Wood, acrylic, or leather blanks
• Masking tape for clean results
• Air assist system to reduce burn marks

Step 4: Budget-Friendly vs. Pro-Level Gear

On a budget? Here’s your starter setup:

• Heat Press: $150–$300
• Sublimation Printer or Cutter: $200–$600
• Blanks & Vinyl Starter Pack: $50–$100

Ready to go pro? Upgrade to:

• Auto-open, adjustable heat press
• DTF or laser engraving machine
• Bulk sublimation blanks to cut costs and boost profits

Pro Tip: Start small. Reinvest your profits as you grow.

Step 5: Your Action Plan to Launch

Here’s how to get started today:

1. Pick your niche – Sublimation? DTF? Laser?
2. Buy your gear – Start with one machine and basic supplies.
3. Practice your craft – Make samples for friends or family.
4. Open your shop – Use Etsy, Instagram, or a website.
5. Promote your products – Use social media and live selling.

Craft Express is here to help with top-tier gear and supplies. From heat presses to sublimation blanks, we’ve got everything you need to turn your passion into profit.

Explore products like the Craft Express Sublimation Printer, Auto-Open Heat Press, and starter packs of blanks to jumpstart your creative hustle.

Final Thoughts

Starting your craft business is all about choosing the right tools, taking action, and learning as you go. By investing in quality equipment, you’ll not only create beautiful products—you’ll build a brand customers love.

So, what will you make first? Share your ideas in the comments and explore more tips and tools at Craft Express.