What Equipment Do I Need to Start a Printing Business? Operating a printing business requires few specialized pieces of equipment, and can be operated as a home-based, storefront or Internet business. Printing businesses can be specialized and cater to different needs. Types of printing businesses include vinyl sign printing, screen-printing T-shirts, printing of business cards, brochures and documents, election ballots. Know what type of printing you want to specialize in and plan accordingly. Printing System Probably the most important investment you can make for your printing business is the printer. The type of printing you plan on performing will dictate the type of printer you need. Basic printers are divided into inkjet, laser, screen and offset. If you are wanting to print vinyl signs, you may want an extra-wide sign and label inkjet printer. If you are printing business cards, it may be better to select a laser printer while an offset press wil...