STUDIO VLOG ✸ A Big Mistake, Why we are returning our Printer & Prepping for a autumn shop update

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Guys we had a bit of a business fail, I was super excited to begin printing and pressing my own bag and apparel with my new dtf printer, but the results and ideas were short lived with the reality of how hard, slow and difficult it is to use them, we ended up returning our printer and here is why!
We also get to work on making up some sticker packs on the cricuts and prepare for a autumn shop update!
YOU DA BEST
Love,
Catherine
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[@KatnippStudios]

Hey guys! So what a fail this was, after getting so excited about this Printer, reality soon hit me right in the face! Do you think I made the right decision by returning it? 🙈😩 Also a Huge thank you again for Ritual for sponsoring todays Studio Vlog hehe ✨ I've been loving taking their vitamins on a morning as part of my routing hehe If you fancy trying them you can find them right her for 20% off during your first month!: ​www.ritual.com/KATNIPP20

[@beth6085]

DTF is a mess and the results are stiff and strange feeling. Best to go with a DTG printer if you are going to do it.

[@rabsrealm]

That's a shame. I also have a P600 (and a 1500W) for DTF printing but they should never had you put 4 white channels in it. I alternate the white between my LC LM and LK LLK every other week. 2 channels run white and 2 run cleaning fluid. That way you'll never have trouble with your white ink. Coverage is more than adequate from 2 channels. All mine takes is a daily shake of the white ink and a small white only square printed to wet the heads. It then prints like a champ all day. Those little curing ovens are rubbish also, I use a delongi convection oven to cure mine. It takes minutes. You can also buy hot peel film on rolls. That's another tip, I print on 30cm rolls using third party software, no messing about feeding sheets in. Just print, slit and cure. You should have stuck it out and fine tuned your workflow.

[@mrs.quills7061]

I think you did, the time it takes to set up and the hours you spend isn’t worth it. I think if you were a business that did that for other people okay, but you’re running a shop with other goods and a KZbin. Sure the prints come out good and you have more control, but then you can’t have more quantity and charge people a reasonable amount for them.

[@rabsrealm]

@@beth6085 DTG is dreadful and they barely last a few washes. The garment also needs to be pre-treated and cured before you can print on them then pressed again to seal. Done properly, you can barely feel a DTF transfer on the garment.

[@misalisa256]

Just seeing the different cozy nights items you have, you could have sold it as a special collectors set that included an exclusive tote bag of the same theme.... and that way have the price be slightly higher and still make a profit. 😌😌😌

[@xmoshyMCCOY]

One thing that I appreciate about you, Catherine, and one of the reasons I always return to your videos is your transparency. You have an incredibly successful business and you show all the dreamy ups of it (coffee dates, vacations, hiring family, your beautiful studio views), but you also show us when you muck up, or when things don't turn out how you had planned. As an artist I appreciate that so so much. It's encouraging to see a successful artist make mistakes to remind us little artists that it happens, and you can take on losses from it, but you can learn from it too. Thanks for being real.

[@KatnippStudios]

Thank you so so much! I want to share all parts of my journey! It’s easy to romantisise things but often, especially in business things go wrong, risks have to be made and money is lost! So I’m so glad you get to learn hopefully from my mistakes 😅😂 xxxxYOU DA BEST

[@mrs.quills7061]

I’ve really been enjoying your transparency about your business in these last few vlogs. It helps me with my shop and validate that my own “failures” or mistakes are okay. I don’t see this as a failure, you tried and hey maybe a viewer would want to try something like that. It was cool regardless because I didn’t know that’s how they make shirts and such! Glad to see you found an easier solution, and you’re supporting another business this way. Work smarter, not harder! I felt the same way when I was hand making glass pins and bookmarks… it stopped being fun and took me too much time. My prints and cards are fairly easy, but everything else is such a process! Also, may I ask what cricut printers you have? I’ve been wanting one, but I got spooked by some bad reviews. People say the calibration can be off and their software has a subscription now? I just want to be able to make more and better stickers rather than outsource them.

[@KatnippStudios]

Yes circuits are hit and miss if I’m being totally honest, a lot more sticker shops use a silhouette or the new silhouette pro, but I have had these for years andalthough we have to calibrate them they still work! And they have been a great investment in my business especially when I began selling stickers! I still use my original circuit you can see on my shelves heheh also the silhouette also has a paid platform I believe but I can’t be 100% sure on that ❤❤ thank you so so much for watching you da best ❤️😍😍😍😍

[@abbylynn8872]

Sorry yo see the printer workflow did not work out for you, but thankful you shared the pitfalls for your business as this will help so many other small shop owners.

[@cynthias4159]

Check into Siser Easy Color DTV paper. You can use your inkjet printer and heat press.

[@gilscot100]

You are a wise business lady. That print process was labor intensive. Salaries can be the highest business cost. And I could see the printer was slow, then you had all the maintenance every morning to keep it tip top. I had a similar experience with a pro design jet printer - we gave up on it.

[@NemoCat20]

The quality of those transfers was so good! I can 100% see why you returned the printer though. The amount of time to get to the point of the finished product was just not worth it. 😬 Hope you can find a happy medium later on! Love all the new autumn themed products! 🤩🎃

[@KatnippStudios]

Heheh thank you so so much I ended up using the local company to buy the transfers instead ❤❤❤❤ the quality of the prints are sooooo nice ❤

[@BjorkL]

They are so stinking cute! Lil' Gourdie. 🥰 2:17

[@curicuri218]

Maybe you can buy transfers from another small business! I know many indie sellers buy transfers to press onto their products instead of printing it themselves. Saves them from having to invest and maintain a printer! Examples of some companies in the US are Howard Custom Transfers, 613 Originals, FM Expressions, Versatranz, and Supacolor. I'm sure there are many companies like these where you live too!

[@Paperinparadise]

There are companies that sell the Transfers and that is what I think would be good. Have transfers on hand and ready to print he needed.. I didn’t realize you had to put the powder on them after printing. I wouldn’t agree too many steps.

[@kbunny123]

Sorry the dtf printer didn’t work. If you are still interested in doing totes in house, you should look into pigment ink. Its a cheaper alternative and it allows you to print on vinyl/make your own heat transfers. And pigment ink can be used with an eco tank (just like the sublimation ink). Just fill the printer tanks, print, trim and heat press. I hope this helps💖

[@gloryraineisawesome36years89]

The girl with the mushroom dress is SO ADORABLE!! I can’t wait to get my bag 😍😍😍

[@CupcakeCottage]

I certainly wouldn’t bother with all of that printing myself. I would outsource it all. Love your designs!

[@KatnippStudios]

That’s what I’ve ended up doing this time ❤❤❤

[@chantallennox1201]

Love the pose on that illustration challenge. Comes alive!

[@Nancy-pf6ft]

Yes- the printer was going to make your bags crazy expensive because of the time it took. Too bad-but yes you absolutely made the right decision.

[@tammieh647]

Hi Catherine, I loved your Vlog it is so honest, how you are as a businesswoman and it helps me as a small businesswoman owner as well to see that we can all learn from our mistakes and there will be mistakes that’s how you grow as a creative. Thank you for sharing all of your self with us💕🤗✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨

[@danielafonseca3104]

The new illustration is adorable 😍

[@kimmierishe5547]

That little girl illustration is ADORABLE! Please consider making her into something I could put into my planner + journal (a sticker or postcard). The first name that popped into my head for the little pumpkin cutie was “Squish Squash.” 🥰 But you always come up with the cutest names for your characters so I can’t wait to see what you name him.

[@PolkaDotPearle]

Errrr, you made me a spooky mug 😂 🎃 👻

[@meeshlvslobster]

I don't know if this will help, but the printer I have my eye on is the Digital Heatfx printer. The colors are amazing and there's no putting powder, etc. Your stickers are adorable 😍

[@harmonychantel3096]

Yes I’m looking into that one too!! 😊 currently I get my prints from another company for $5 each but shipping adds up and it takes about 7 days. With the the printer each print would be about 4.49 which isn’t too bad. Update here if u end up getting the printer pls 😊

[@kerenvalentin7082]

I love, love your new illustration, she is absolutely adorable!! Love all your autumn line as well, there just so cute. As far as the DTF printer, it's not worth the time or money. A small but thriving business like yours needs to keep moving. You were doing a great job with out it before, and you will continue to so. I also love the sound of the paper cutter, it was soothing for me as well... LOL. Have a great weekend.

[@KatnippStudios]

Hehehe thank you so much ❤❤❤ I’m like you I find the sounds of paper and cutting so satisfying lol 😂

[@watercolourartincapetown2919]

I spill anything on me 😂 there’s fairies that tease us. Spilling things down our front 🌸 👚 😂 🧚‍♀️

[@athira_n_s]

It is so important to love the process as much as you love the product. Who am I to talk I haven’t started selling stickers yet. Even though I bought the silhouette months ago😂 I’ve got to start making stickers 😅😅😅

[@KatnippStudios]

Heheh don’t worry these things take time 😂 I sometimes have a product idea and it takes me years to finally do lol 😂

[@lullabyx3312]

Your Videos are so amazing Catherine! I just can't stop watching them :)

[@LucySBeauty]

Girl your lashes…. 🥰🥰🥰 absolute lash goals. I’m jealous 😉 BTW love to watch your vlogs, so relaxing and I’m happy to see nice people succeed 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻

[@MS-dw6zu]

Lovely designs 😍 May I ask what transfer paper you used for the tote bag?

[@basketbears1]

Would you ever consider doing a XL canvas bag? Bit like the ones they sell in Primark. I started using them fell in love with how much they carry, but now can't use normal canvas bags as they feel too small. I love you designs and would ADORE them on a XL canvas bag.XXX

[@theimmersedreader]

I love Gourdon! But, his nickname should be Gordo! (Like Lizzie McGuire's bff.)

[@hillmeli]

You just answered a long time question I've had for a while: I am working on a stationary online store but I have a background on Fashion Illustration and Apparel Design. I think I can have a side shop where I design clothes and accessories. Wow! Thank you.

[@LolaRobles17]

Hi Catherine!! I love Gourdon, and I was also thinking Gourdo. like a play on Gordo from Lizzie McGuire!

[@iwillcry]

Just like you said, sometimes we have to try things out to see if it works for us!

[@ashlaire]

Your vlogs are always such a feel good watch! Love them! ❤ I also have the last of your pumpkin wax melt burning in the background. I've been sparing it!

[@KatnippStudios]

Heheh oh my goodness we got ours out too 😂 we actually got the Christmas peppermint one out lol ❤

[@ashlaire]

@@KatnippStudios I have the nutcracker one left, going to save it a little longer ha 😂

[@wickedlee]

I've always say there's no such thing as failure, just lessons. Your new design is super cute, she totes belongs on a tote ;)

[@KatnippStudios]

Heheh your totally right ❤❤❤❤❤

[@moonlightgamingasmr]

I know I’m a whole 11 months too late but with my dtf printer, I can add the adhesive powder on to the wet ink and cure it right away. The longest bit are the printing and curing but in actuality these only take less than 2 mins each.

[@_chetom]

Ohhhh the illustration for your patreon community 'Autumn is the Best' is SOOOOO PRETTY ! 🤩🎃🧡 I love her so much !!! Also, I'm sad to hear the printer didn't work out (the prints look lovely!), but to be fair it's really sensible to account for how much time and effort something takes and to weigh in pros/cons regarding your business! Tough decisions but all for the better!🧡

[@KatnippStudios]

Thank you so much ❤❤❤❤ I was so happy with how they turned out 🥹🥹😍 I ended up purchasing the transfers off the local company! You,k see hopefully in the next vlog hehehe ❤❤

[@thetoastyfox]

Lovely video as usual! sometimes the music is so loud it competes with your voice and it's hard to comprehend what your saying over the 🎶

[@chronicfish]

Catherine, I haven't had the opportunity to watch your vlogs for some time now, due to different life circumstances, but may I just say how fabulous you and Dean are both looking. Also, I am loving the new studio. I have a lot of catching up to do! 💜

[@KatnippStudios]

Oh my goodness what a lovely compliment thank you so so much ❤🥹🥹🥹🥹 this really means the world and welcome back ❤

[@AttackonGames]

That sucks the DTF printer didn’t work out it seemed so good but the length of time for just one is insane good luck finding a better alternative I’m sure you will find something even better and hopefully cheaper!

[@poshglampristine4044]

Thank you for sharing your world. The little one was so darling 😍🥰

[@lin90210]

Love the autumnal candle vibes

[@kushymarambio]

I look forward to every single thing you post, love your transparency, your personality, your accent is beautiful, everything is visually magnificent in your videos. Also your illustrations and packaging is perfection 🥰. Thank you for brightening my days.

[@KatnippStudios]

Oh my goodness what a compliment ❤❤😮 thank you so so much! YOU DA BEST ❤

[@Mehbuba23]

I think for your needs, an eco solvent printer makes more sense. It’s also much less time consuming. Like a Roland bn 20 or bn 20-a

[@rachelm_curlysue]

It’s disappointing that the DTF printer didn’t work out, the output was beautiful, but I think I would have done the same thing. It seems like you’d need to have a person dedicated to just printing and producing that stuff who could do it in batches or whatever to really make it worth the investment. Hopefully the new transfers come in just as beautiful! I’ve wanted to order transfers of my work but there are so many printers out there. I haven’t had the time to sort through and pick one to try yet though!

[@CloverWoodss]

YOOO your location has more Autumn & Halloween stuff than all of Cali combined. I swear they put up empty decorated shelves to make it SEEM like they had stuff 😵‍💫 also!! I’m so sorry the totes didn’t work out. They all looked SO GOOD too, but you’re so right on the time it takes 😔

[@KylaVerm]

I love the new illustration!

[@Rec426]

Thank you for sharing about making mistakes as a company. I don’t think you always hear about that type of thing when you watch other small business vlogs. For myself and my candle business I’ll eventually be hoping to make, one of my major worries is people won’t actually buy my products 😅 I know this is probably a worry most business owners have. My parents have been really supportive (my mum is actually going to become my business partner to help me out since I do have health issues) and they keep reminding me that there’s no best time like now to try. I think I tend to overthink especially with the economy like it is/heading to be and I’m trying to learn not to worry about things like that. Love the vlog again and looking forward to more! :)

[@KatnippStudios]

Ekkkk you got this ❤❤❤❤ good luck on your new business venture I’m sure you’ll do amazing hehehe ❤❤❤❤

[@carolsmith9478]

Nice job on the new Autumn illustrations! Like you said the last illustration is very strong in style.

[@brookesartnook]

I always spill my food and drinks on myself too lol and I cannot pour a simple cup of coffee without it dripping down the pot and the cup no matter how hard I try haha

[@Mina-so8su]

Yeah girl Animal crossing all day. Soundtrack is amazing.

[@chloevaux8391]

You're so awesome Catherine, your transparency is so refreshing. That printer would have been a big investment for your business and it has to be 100% right. You're doing the right thing sending it back, the process looked incredibly long winded. Thank you for taking us all on this wonderful adventure with you. x

[@dearmyshrimp]

Arent you like the cutest thing ever

[@Bournelux]

I’m sorry the DTF printer didn’t work out for you Catherine! But at least you have it a go! Also all your designs for fall are so cute!! Xx

[@missEllenSaturnino]

Catherine! that illustration is so sweet. It gives off such a happy vibe and on the tote bag it looked super nice!

[@kathleenstuartart]

I love love love autumn girl too! 💕 She's super cute!

[@augustatkinsonillustration5341]

Excellent job Kat!

[@snowblossomtwo]

I have a company that does all the DTF printing for me, they are very reasonable and close by, so shipping usually takes one day. It has saved me so much time and let me expand to full color prints. But yeah the printers are finicky.

[@leeraxd]

I just downloaded Dreamlight Valley today! I haven't started yet but I've heard so many good things about it. I think not being on your phone before bed is my BIGGEST struggle to get a goood night sleep. Also, you're looking like a mini version of yourself! Looking so good!

[@KatnippStudios]

Yesss omg it’s such a struggle isn’t it ❤ 😂 I highly recommend it I usually scroll on TikTok till about 3am otherwise 😂😅

[@xaxysrawrs7088]

I looove the new illustration you made, it’s sooooo cute 🥰

[@SalleyneDesign]

Whoa! I haven’t been to your channel in a super long time and I’ve just popped over to see what you’ve been up to…..and you look fantastic! You’ve lost so much weight. So awesome! And so glad to see you’re still going strong with your business! Congrats on it all! 💙

[@spillustrations]

Wow! I haven’t watched you in years because life got away with me, but o my gosh you are doing so well!! Congratulations 🎉

[@KatnippStudios]

Thank you so so much Sarah!

[@patsykun]

First time seeing the vlog this early. So excited to watch

[@TenTenJ]

Your illustrations have gotten so masterful, indeed 😍 They were wonderful to begin with from the start of your journey. One of the things that I like most is when the background is colored as well. I know that would be hard to do for the mugs but it would be interesting to see a band of color in the background of the illustration or maybe. a cloud of color! 🤩

[@KatnippStudios]

Heheh thank you so much ❤ my art has gotten more simplistic but I’ve found this works so much better for products and looks so cute heheh thank you so much ❤❤❤❤❤❤

[@heddynae]

Awe, I’m lovin your little autumn girl.

[@Vegarcade]

I'm happy you are playing and enjoying Dreamlight Valley!! I was going to reccomend it here if you hadn't checked it out yet, seems like the perfect game for you. Also I adore the mushroom girl illustration!!

[@KatnippStudios]

It’s sooooooo cayuttteee I find it really relaxing the problem is I only play it before bed and now ,y body knows it’s time to sleep so I only play on it ten mins at a time 😂 it’s going to take me ages lol 😂

[@ruthiesartandclay]

I look forward to these vlogs every week! 🥰And wow after seeing the amount of work and hassle with that printer, I totally get returning it!! Btw I am in LOVE with all of your fall stuff!!!

[@KatnippStudios]

Yessss there where so many steps 😂❤❤❤ so happy you enjoy them thank you so so much for watching 🥹🥹🥹🥹

[@JulieEbersole]

Oh my goodness--your new found treasures will make such great photo props! I never find such good ones, but I do live on an island and such fun shops are so far to travel to. I'll just have to enjoy vicariously. Thank you for sharing! Lovely vlog--as ALWAYS!

[@lucy-mairatcliffe5837]

Absolutely love the honesty! I’m looking at getting a DTF myself, but I’m a lot smaller production than yourself, so hopefully I can make it work 🤞 Can I ask though, what guillotine do you use? Every single one I have ever bought has been pants and yours looks like it cuts through card like a knife through butter 😂 Any tips and advice would be greatly appreciated. I love watching how far you have come, from that little office space, to where you are at now! You’ve done so well and are my inspiration! Xx

[@kristymabe8477]

For the pumpkin how about Jack-be-little or Pepo? Or if you want to keep gourd how about shortening to Gourdy/Gourdie? Love the girl illustration!!

[@marklola12]

You need one of those DTF printers where it has a automatic stirring on the white colour..but i think it can still be too costly in money and time for alot of people

[@Paperinparadise]

What shop are the mockups from those were so cute! Thanks in advance!

[@mightnightstar]

How long will it be until your own website opens? I LOVE your art but I would rather buy when you have your own website rather than giving Etsy lots of fees 😁

[@cottingcandles1645]

Love this little girl! I want a tote bag with her on it...or other things! Is she in the shop?

[@SamanthaStoddartX94X]

Your nails are amazing

[@mandarabbit7444]

I love those bags! Quality was beautiful but the process does cut into a lot of the time you need for other "easier" products so I fully support the trial and return of the printer. Thank you for showing your learning processes! I'm an artist but I don't sell my work as I found owning a shop far too much to deal with. So I appreciate you showing all your learning experiences for the future me who is going to debate selling designs randomly. Side note: I've also been playing Dreamlight Valley and Cozy Grove before bed! It's very relaxing and I found myself dozing very quickly. When the game launches as multiplayer I want to see your Valley!

[@KatnippStudios]

Heheh of course although it’s probably going to take me ages to build because I fall asleep 10 mins after playing it it’s such a cozy game heheh 😂❤ I love the music

[@harmonychantel3096]

I have been researching means of different types of printer for my small business but almost every type have high cost per transfers, the same as it would if I order them from another company who could just print it for me. 😅 But maybe in the future look into white toner printer like the Digital Heat fx 😊

[@amanimaedesign]

It seems like the printer (despite the price) would be much better for a smaller business, with maybe just a few prints to be made a day. I think it would just be much better for a business like yours to get these from a manufacturer! You just don't have the time to be making these!

[@b_r_a_n]

i love how at 14:53 i knew straight away that was b&m because i work in b&m😂🤦🏼‍♂️so sad the printer didn't work out for you but atleast you gave it a try! all the autumn designs are SO CUTE!😍

[@bazutaartstudio]

What an absolutely adorable fall collection! :)

[@glowatyourownpace]

Patches the pumpkin!

[@fuzzydragons]

the autumn design looks great 😀 the dtf printer does look like a lot of work, but the finished product looks wonderful

[@BjorkL]

That is waaaaay too many steps for one print! 😳🤯 5:00

[@49lucky]

Oh goody a katnipp vlog my day is complete

[@steffiebrutz]

Love it! all the way from Australia. Love the challenge illustration❤

[@nannecakes]

Catherine, i love your smocked gingham top from this vlog. do you mind sharing where you found it? i love your video, hope all is well 💖💖💖

[@sweetprincesskawaii]

dtf is such a pain to work with.. have you heard about eco solvent printing? look into it not a lot people do them but few people I seen do them the prints looks amazing. its kinda like sublimation but with little extra step :)

[@bholland81491]

Couldn't you buy the transfers and still make the bags and what not on demand? So you don't have to get a bunch of already printed inventory.

[@spacekiwis]

I like the name Jimmy for the pumpkin/ghourd. 😅

[@Glamgirlgiftshop]

What about Gourdy, not as corporate as Gourdon and kind of like Gingy!

[@molonate]

Hating your own designs is totally an artist issue! I hate a lot of stuff I design but I keep them because other people might like them! Lol

[@beepboop9628]

I think Gourdie or Gourdy would be cute. Its like a little pet name for Gordon and sort of reminds me of that one friend from the Lizzie McGuire show, ’ Gordo’ 🎃

[@sylviegrenier3423]

hi! it's super beautiful what you do, your black round mouse pads can you tell me where or give me the link from where you bought it please thank you very much

[@Sikizu]

Gourdino!

[@jolawrence674]

Hi Katherine, If you don’t mind me asking, why don’t you use the cricuts to cut your backing cards?

[@elisabethverte7061]

Every time I watch one of your videos I find myself searchign for cute gingham blouses! Also, added my Citrus keychain to my work lanyard and get so many compliments on it! Got at least two of my coworkers looking at your shop now!

[@KatnippStudios]

Heheh oh my goodness that’s such a good idea ❤❤❤❤❤ I’m soooo happy you like her heheh and she gets compliments!,p YOU DA BEST

[@elisabethverte7061]

@@KatnippStudios Speaking of! Have you done lanyards in the past? Is that somthing you think you might carry in the future?

[@LukesLiife]

Love you 💜💜💜

[@user-kz3sv8mv6j]

I think you made the right decision! It was the best for your business, love the new design too! By the way where did you get the cute organizers at 4:01 !!?

[@An_na_mar]

Gourdy!

[@Justin_W]

This is what I was afraid of and what kept me from pursuing one. Too bad though! What paper do you use for your backing cards? They look great!

[@zoehilger1462]

NAME THE PUMPKIN CHARACTER GOURDON (like gourd) OMG

[@molliemitchell8000]

Woah I was early! Love love the new designs 🥰🥰❤️