When is the right time to invest in a plotter machine?

Summary 

• Technology can transform fashion production, and the plotter machine is a real standout.
• Yet, as with any investment, knowing the opportune moment to act is key.
• Experience the future of the fashion industry with Audaces360. Start your free trial now! 

If you’re a production manager, you know the pressure to meet deadlines and maintain quality is not always easy. On the bright side, the apparel manufacturing industry has technologies available to help you. 

One of the tools that can impact your results is the plotter machine, used to print out pattern markers for fabric cutting. It can transform the way you work, especially if you’re still relying on manual methods or outsourcing plotting services. 

But with every investment comes the crucial question: when is the right time to make the move? In this article, we’ll walk through the key factors that signal it’s time to invest in a plotter machine. 

Join us and discover our pro tips. Happy reading! 

Why does your apparel business need a plotter machine? 

If your team still prints patterns manually or relies on outsourcing, a plotter machine can change the game. It prints pattern markers with speed and precision, helping you optimize fabric use and avoid costly errors. 

Handling this step in-house also gives you more control over production. You can respond faster to changes, keep up with tight deadlines, and maintain consistent quality. 

Moreover, as demand increases, a plotter machine helps you scale without losing efficiency. It brings flexibility to your workflow and reduces waste, leading to long-term savings. 

It connects easily with digital pattern systems, making your process more modern and sustainable. For businesses looking to grow and stay competitive, it’s a smart investment. 

Learn more: How to overcome slow cutting in your apparel manufacturing? 

How to identify when it’s time to invest in a plotter machine? 

Knowing when to upgrade your production tools can be challenging, but certain clear signs indicate it’s time to invest in a plotter machine. It’s time to learn how to identify them! 

Need for automation 

Manual marking or outsourcing pattern printing can slow down your production and increase the risk of errors. In contrast to that, automating this step with a plotter machine ensures faster turnaround times and more consistent results. 

Automation also reduces dependency on manual labor. It frees your team to focus on higher-value tasks like quality control and design adjustments. 

This shift not only improves productivity but also lowers operational risks tied to human error. 

Growing demand for printed patterns 

Increased order volumes or more frequent sampling often mean you need pattern markers printed quickly and precisely. 

With more designs and styles coming in, the volume of printed patterns grows accordingly. Handling these internally with a plotter machine ensures you meet deadlines without sacrificing quality. 

Having an in-house plotter also means you can experiment and iterate faster. You gain the flexibility to adjust patterns on short notice, improving responsiveness to client needs and market trends. 

Learn more: The ultimate guide to create a marker for fabric cutting 

Aiming for more autonomy and flexibility 

Investing in a plotter machine gives your team full autonomy over this critical production step. 

More control means fewer bottlenecks and less risk of delays due to external factors. You can manage your workflow end-to-end, improving overall efficiency and reducing stress on your production schedule. 

Flexibility also improves as you gain the ability to print patterns anytime, for small or large runs.

Ready to take your company to the next level and maximize productivity? Get our free exclusive guide filled with expert tips to make it happen!

Which plotter machine is best for your business? 

Choosing the right plotter machine depends on your production volume, available space, and the level of automation you need. 

Some machines are ideal for large-scale operations. Meanwhile, others are better for smaller businesses looking to streamline a few steps in the process. 

If your operation produces a high number of markers daily, you’ll need a high-capacity plotter. In this case, look for models that can handle wide-format paper, long print runs, and complex layouts with ease. 

Speed, reliability, and low maintenance will be essential in this case. 

Learn more: 5 types of industrial machines for your apparel production 

How much does a plotter machine cost? 

The cost of a plotter machine can vary significantly based on features, speed, and capacity. 

Entry-level models may start at a few thousand dollars. In contrast, high-end industrial machines can cost tens of thousands. It’s important to weigh this cost against the potential time and money saved over time. 

While the initial investment might seem high, the return on investment often comes quickly. 

Learn more: Find out which textile machines are worth investing in to boost your fashion production 

Key benefits of using a plotter machine

With its speed and precision, a plotter machine is a valuable asset for any apparel business looking to grow. Discover the main benefits! 

Faster production workflows 

Speed is critical in apparel manufacturing, especially when dealing with tight deadlines or last-minute changes. 

In this scenario, a plotter machine helps accelerate the production process by quickly printing out precise pattern markers. It reduces downtime and keeps everything on schedule. 

Your team can move directly from design to cutting with minimal waiting. This streamlining improves coordination across departments and reduces the risk of missed deadlines. 

Higher quality and consistency

Manually plotted patterns can lead to inaccuracies and inconsistencies that affect the final garment. On the other hand, a plotter machine ensures precision, leading to better alignment, cleaner cuts, and fewer errors. 

With consistent output, it becomes easier to maintain high product quality across different production batches. This reduces the need for rework and enhances customer satisfaction. 

By standardizing this stage of production, your team can rely on a repeatable, high-quality process. The result is greater confidence in your output and a stronger brand reputation. 

Long-term cost savings 

While the upfront cost of a plotter machine may seem significant, the long-term savings are substantial. 

You reduce spending on outsourced services and minimize fabric waste through more efficient marker layouts. 

Fewer errors mean fewer remakes, which saves time and materials. In high-volume production, these savings add up quickly and contribute directly to your bottom line. 

Over time, this investment pays off through improved efficiency and reduced operational costs. 

Learn more: How to set up a plotter room for your fashion business? 

More sustainable operations 

Sustainability is becoming a key priority in fashion, and a plotter machine supports more eco-friendly production. With optimized marker layouts, you reduce fabric waste and make better use of raw materials. 

Moreover, you can cut down on transport and packaging waste associated with outsourcing. It’s a way to reduce your environmental footprint while increasing control over the entire process. 

A plotter also fits naturally into digital workflows, reducing reliance on paper and manual processes. 

These small improvements add up, helping your business align with sustainability goals and industry expectations. 

Integration with other technologies 

One of the advantages of a plotter machine is its ability to integrate seamlessly with other tools. When connected to digital design systems, it becomes part of a fully streamlined production process. 

Audaces, for example, offers full integration between its Pattern and Marker software and the plotter. First, you can create your digital patterns in Audaces Pattern. Then, generate optimized markers in Audaces Marker, and send them directly to the plotter. All without manual steps or file conversions. 

This end-to-end integration not only saves time but also reduces the risk of errors. It creates a smoother, more connected production flow, helping you work smarter and deliver better results with every collection. 

Learn more: 4 reasons you should invest in a cutter room for fashion 

Print patterns faster with the Audaces Jet Lux plotter machine

Audaces Jet Lux is the top choice on the market for fashion businesses aiming to invest in a plotter machine.   

We have leveraged our over 30 years of textile industry expertise to create a cutting-edge plotter. It’s robust, fast, and precise, capable of meeting the demands of businesses of all sizes.   

Completely integrated into our full software package for the fashion industry, it delivers the efficiency your company needs. 

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