For over 5 years I have been decorating garments using a heat press onto primarily polyester substrates.
Started with the PROWORLD Inc 15x15 Semi-automatic.
Upgraded to the 16x20 Swinger. This review is about features on the 15x15 that I miss and some issues with the Swinger.
#1. The up-to-temp indicator is truly a missed feature.
Now about the Swinger.
As indicated I primarily sublimate onto polyester t's which presents challenges.
ISSUE #1. Edges on platens are too sharp and leave the heatpress foot print on everything. Yes, I could use pillows but that defeats the whole purpose of a threadable press. I had to manually bevel the edges of the pressure mat on each platen.
Issue #2. OOPSY. As instructed by the installation guide, I installed the extensions to the base of the press. However, when the upper platen is swung fully open it is very, very easy to get the press to teeter. As you ca see in the image I had to install a clamp on the back left extension to improve the stability. To be clear, the press did not topple of fthe workbench but I felt the possibility existed.
Issue #3. Disentigrating grip. As you can see in the image on the white bracket to the upper platen, black specs. This black material originates from the grip used to lower the platen.
#4. This is clearly described in the installation instructions, but even then I found the heated platen when swung fully open did contact the power cord. I was confident I had secrued it but clearly those efforts were not sufficient. So check and double check. PRO-World DID send me a replacement power cord.
#5. Pressure adjustment. That is the big round knob at the back. Rotating the knob did not result in a smooth action one would expect from a threaded mechanism. Instead, the action was smooth for a fraction of a turn, increased resistance and a sudden release. A real ratchetety operation.
I did talk with ProWord regarding these issues but there was little they could do or offered to do.
I still use my Swinger, but if I were faced with buying today, I would not buy this press.
Would I recommend this press?
I believe ProWorld offers very budget friendly products and may be the BEST VALUE ON THE MARKET.
So, yes I would recommend ProWord to the budget sensitive.