The Age Old Question, Tajima or Barudan...

[mk162]

In all fairness, SWF's need so much work that every tech should be experts on them...

[GraphicDisorder]

In all fairness, SWF's need so much work that every tech should be experts on them...

We had several work on ours over the years and it was never with much success.  Jay made them sing.

[printguy]

You're right - Jay is the man. Fixed some issues that two seasoned factory techs couldn't figure out. He'll be here tomorrow & Saturday to work his magic.

[Audifox]

Looking at taking the plunge on a new 4 head, will be used 90%  for left chest and hats, Barudan is quoting at about 15% more than Tajima, they say they are a heavier, tougher, better built machine.

Are they worth it over a Tajima?

All feedback appreciated, not interested in other brands at this point.

For the Barudan, would that be coming from Toronto? Or you are dealing with someone in the States?

The one reason I didn't buy a Barudan when I bought new was because the only place that sold them was in Toronto. That can add up for freight, tech support. etc. (and didn't need one at the western imprint show )

For me it came down to closeness to my door. I went Tajima because their Edmonton office is way closer than Toronto.
Good Luck

[Inkworks]

Tech is out Kamloops I believe, sales rep is out of Vancouver. Shipping, Install and training are included in both machines pricing.

[Inkworks]

Soooo, how much should I budget for thread/backing/solvy etc. to get started? I'd want to have like 90% of the colors I'd eventually need, I know there will always be that unique color for certain customers you always have to bring in. 4 spools each of course, and who are good suppliers?

[mk162]

sheesh..that's a tough one since it's been so long since i've purchased enough thread for a new machine instead of pulling from stock...

I would say probably around $200-300 in backing.  I get mine from bobbincentral.com  I also get magna glides there, they have very good prices on them.  They poly thread is pretty good too, I think Madeira is better though.

Thread is a tough one, you might need around $1000 in thread.  A 6 head 15 needle machine takes around $700 in thread to load up with no spares or extra colors.  Personally I would pick a thread supplier that is a day shipping or local so you can get threads quickly when you are in a bind.

[Audifox]

You have a few options.

Gunhold (Gunhold Thread)
http://www.gunold.ca/

Cansew (Madeira Thread)
http://www.cansew.com/default.aspx

Embroidery Systems Canada (Coats Thread)
http://www.embroiderysystemscanada.com/

Cansew carries Madeira and other stuff related to embroidery.

RB Digital is a distributor for Gunhold in Alberta.

I use Cansew a quite a bit because they have a warehouse in Calgary. Next day ship if I don't have time to drive into town.
But I'm not sure which would be closer for you. Calgary or Vancouver. You're kind of in the middle.

Poly thread will cost you approx. $10-$12 per cone. Depending on who you use.
Backing will depend on how wide of a roll you want. Some come up to 48-51 inches wide. Some only come in 20-24 inch rolls.

Lots to learn..... good luck