first pasting machine

[NCMama]

We're starting out in paperhanging and need to buy our first pasting machine. What do y'all recommend? We're looking at the 56" Paste-Well commercial machine, which is a pull box. How likely is this machine to fill our needs for pasting both residential and commercial papers? Would we be better off with a gear-driven machine? If so, what size? I'll be delighted to hear what anyone has to say on the topic.

Cheryl

[ProWallGuy]

A pastewell would work fine for commercial goods, but I wouldn't pull any residential goods through it. A smaller residential machine would suit those better.

I own an advance 62" w/gears, and like it. I can pull whole bolts through, or individual pieces if I want. A pastewell won't allow individual pieces without draining the adhesive each time.

We use a Tapo 29" for residential goods. Built real sturdy, it stands up to a lot of abuse and performs beautifully.

Bob Larson found a decent one for sale on ebay, and posted this link on the APN:

Advance 62" (http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=3872420257)

[NCMama]

Prowallguy,

Thanks so much for the reply. I took a look at that pasting machine on ebay and it looks ok, but I wouldn't buy it unless it had a manual. I posted a query to ask her.

Still looking...

Cheryl

[mike stachnik]

Hey Cheryl;

For resi., a Ramco 32" would be a good choice. Price is reasonable, and you can pull most goods through it with just about any paste choice. I would stay away from some of the cheaper plastic table top models, they have very limited capabilities. Did you know that we have two Guild chapters in your area? Not sure exactly where your from in N.C., but Greenville, S.C. has an excellent chapter, and we also have a chapter hear in Charlotte. And don't forget about the upcoming Regional workshop in Greenville in April.

Mike

[NCMama]

Mike,
Thanks for the reply. I am beginning to get the picture. It looks like people who do both commercial and residential end up owning two machines. Is there a way to buy one for both purposes?

In a residential machine, how would you compare the Ramco with the Tapofix? I like the idea of German technology, but the Tapos are pricey.

We're north of Asheville and just joined the SC chapter because Greenville is only an hour from us. Will look into the Regional workshop in April...we plan to be there.

Cheryl

[ProWallGuy]

Is there a way to buy one for both purposes?
IMHO, no. :(

[Chris Nelson]

I like the idea of German technology, but the Tapos are pricey.

That they are,but you will never have to buy another one.:llama:

[NCMama]

Gotcha. German techno wins again. My friends in Winzerhausen will be so pleased!

You all have been super. Thanks so much for your help.

Cheryl

[mike stachnik]

Hey Cheryl;

Tim's right about needing two machines. I don't think you'd want to lug a 60" machine into a house to do a 6 roll bath. My friend has a tapo and likes it. I have had a Ramco for 3 years now, and it works like the day I bought it. Heck, It even fell off the back of a moving pick-up and still worked that day! Can't say the same for some of the help!

Defintely go to the Greenville workshop. No matter what your skill level, you WILL learn something, and probably be able to teach us a few tricks. The hands-on demo's alone are worth the trip.

Mike