18.12.2025

How to Build a Garage Print Shop: From Zero to Production in 30 Days

How to Build a Garage Print Shop: From Zero to Production in 30 Days

Creating a print shop in a garage has become a popular way to start your own business with minimal initial investment. With proper planning and phased implementation, you can launch full-scale production within 30 days.

Day 1-5: Space Analysis and Planning

The first week is dedicated to detailed analysis of the available space and creating a work plan. The garage must meet basic requirements for printing production.

Minimum space requirements:

• Total area: at least 25-30 sq.m • Ceiling height: minimum 2.5 meters • Printer work area: 4x2 meters • Heat pressing area: 3x2 meters

Day 6-10: Electrical Work

Printing equipment has high electrical requirements. It's necessary to ensure stable operation of high-power devices and protection from voltage fluctuations.

Power consumption calculation:

DTF printer: 1.5-2 kW • Heat press: 3-4 kW • Drying chamber: 2-3 kW • Total consumption: 8.5-11.5 kW

Day 11-15: Ventilation System

Quality ventilation is critically important for safe work with DTF inks and powders.

Day 16-20: Equipment Installation

Proper equipment placement ensures efficient workflow and operational safety.

▸ DTF printer

  • Placement requirements: Stable surface
  • Connection: 220V, USB/Ethernet
  • Safety: Grounding, RCD

▸ Heat press

  • Placement requirements: Heat-resistant surface
  • Connection: 220V, 15A
  • Safety: Local exhaust

Project Budget Plan

Printing equipment

  • Minimum budget: $8,000
  • Recommended budget: $15,000

▸ Electrical work

  • Minimum budget: $800
  • Recommended budget: $1,500

▸ Ventilation system

  • Minimum budget: $1,200
  • Recommended budget: $2,500

Conclusions

Creating a print shop in a garage within 30 days is quite achievable with proper planning and phased execution. Following all recommendations, a garage print shop can become the foundation for developing a successful printing business.