#Profitable Sublimation Designs

[bulkmockify]

Selling digital designs? Make them pop with BulkMockify!

Tired of slow mockup creation? BulkMockify makes it effortless! Whether you sell on Etsy or Shopify, this tool generates bulk mockups so you can focus on your business.

[designmindsstudio]

Selling digital designs? Make them look professional with BulkMockify! Whether it’s PNGs, sublimation patterns, or SVG files, this tool helps you create mockups for tumblers, mugs, and t-shirts instantly. Perfect for Etsy, Creative Fabrica, and DesignBundles sellers.

[subliprintpalace]

Sublimation Mockups Have Never Been This Easy

[seminalduty]

The enemy of good things isnt bad things is neutral things, atleast in aesthetic, bad things (ignoring function etc) illicit a response, there is a feeling, neutral things make you feel nothing (this extends to all art/music/design/movies/fashion). Im bored of cars looking all the same and having no taste in colour or design, they arnt good or bad theyre just boring, dull, neutral they lack character, I want more character not less, though there is a limit. Its the same thing with the lack fo scene/emo kids (or sub cultures internets fault blah blah) they were cringe but they were honest in their character not a faux aesthetic but I digress. I hate people in their twenties who buy bmws on loan (because they cant afford them) and theyre fucking BORING they have no character or distinction, youve just paid for the aesthetic of being that guy but your not. we need to go back to modded cars from 1990s because they couldnt afford what would of been a bfw, like gt2 gold from the 1990s with underglow and spoilers. when poor kids in their 20s would love their car and spend money to make it what they thought was cool not this plastic aesthetic of authenticity

I know its all because theyve been sublimated into megacorps and they make 12 versions of the same car for each brand they own with a slightly different shell so their is no cost for them and they dont compete but their designs are BORING, neutral, they pretend to be edgy

Same with rolls royce and bently if I were a billionair id want one of the cool as fuck old ones but with modern shit, I want chrome and big wheel arches a huge grill with chunky square parts. I dont want a glossy fleshlight with the idea of wheel arches painted on like its boring TACKY in a bad way tasteless boring

profit chasing has made arts boring because good art its risky or inefficient, and further rich people have no taste they follow taste and the taste makers dont exist at the high end anymore, really theyre all trying to make the phone of the car but they miss the crucial thing that character has inate risk and without risk there is no character.

[trinalwilliams]

THE UNKNOWN

The thinking machine

There’s always a continuous question mark

Curiosity constantly calling me

Reaching beyond the names

We have creatively created through time

The Sublime giving peace of mind

The open space

Allowing us to experience

Even a thought we bought

What am I, who am I, where am I

What powers power us

Why does your skin know how to mend?

The intelligence behind the intelligent

The design behind time

The feelings beyond words

The darkness

The light

The middle men

A list filled with riddles…

Gods, diviners,forecasters, Profits ,oracles, sibyls, mystics, seers, soothsayers, foretellers, fortune-tellers, prognosticators, futurists, augurs, prophetess,Relates, Visionaries, forseers, prophecies, Jeremías, astrologers, Cassandra’s, Wise-women, palmists, crystal gazers, doomsayers, Investors, Inventors… You get the picture

The BIG picture making everything so small.

Tlw

[quietriddlelibrarian]

Boost Your Brand with Eye-Catching Advertising Table Covers

In the world of marketing and promotions, first impressions matter — and advertising table covers are one of the simplest yet most effective ways to elevate your brand presence. Whether you're at a trade show, local market, corporate event, or community fair, a well-designed table cover with your logo and brand message instantly sets you apart from the crowd.

Advertising table covers serve as more than just decorative accessories. They are powerful branding tools that create a professional, polished look while reinforcing brand recognition. With vibrant colors, high-quality printing, and tailored sizing, these covers transform a plain table into a promotional asset that draws attention and builds trust with potential customers.

One of the biggest advantages of advertising table covers is their versatility. They’re available in a range of styles — including fitted, stretch, and draped — to suit different table sizes and event aesthetics. You can choose from full-color sublimation printing or simple logo placement, depending on the impression you want to make. Whether you prefer a clean, corporate look or a bold, creative design, there’s a solution that matches your vision.

Durability is another key benefit. Most advertising table covers are made from premium polyester or stretch fabric that resists wrinkles and is easy to clean, making them ideal for frequent use. This makes them a cost-effective investment for businesses looking to attend multiple events throughout the year without compromising their professional image.

Beyond the visual appeal, advertising table covers also offer practical benefits. They can hide storage items or marketing materials under the table, keeping your setup clean and clutter-free. Many designs include open backs or zippered access for easy reach, helping your team stay organized and focused during events.

For businesses that frequently engage in face-to-face marketing, advertising table covers are essential. They help establish brand identity, attract foot traffic, and create a cohesive presentation that builds credibility. When paired with banners, promotional tents, or branded giveaways, table covers contribute to a unified look that leaves a lasting impression.

In today’s competitive landscape, standing out is crucial — and advertising table covers give you that edge. Whether you’re a small business, a non-profit, or a large corporation, investing in custom table covers is a smart move for maximizing your event marketing impact. With endless customization options and long-term value, they’re a must-have tool for anyone looking to boost visibility and brand recall.

So, the next time you’re planning an event or preparing for an expo, don’t overlook the power of advertising table covers. They may seem like a small detail, but their impact is big when it comes to attracting attention and making your brand shine.

visit our website:

[tawhidislam]

Mug Printing: A Creative and Personalized Way to Express Yourself

In today’s world of personalized products, mug printing has become one of the most popular and versatile ways to express creativity, share a message, promote a brand, or create a thoughtful gift. Known in Latvian as "krūzīšu apdruka", mug printing offers countless opportunities for personal and professional use. Whether you're creating custom mugs for your business, a memorable photo mug for a friend, or designing merchandise, printed mugs are practical, affordable, and easy to customize.

Why Mug Printing Is So Popular

The popularity of mug printing lies in its simplicity and versatility. Almost everyone uses mugs daily—whether for coffee, tea, or hot chocolate—so a custom-printed mug becomes both functional and meaningful. You can print:

Personal messages

Photos

Company logos

Slogans

Quotes

Artistic designs

Unlike many novelty items, mugs are used regularly, making them perfect for gifts, promotions, or keepsakes.

Common Uses of Printed Mugs

1. Personalized Gifts: Custom mugs are perfect gifts for birthdays, anniversaries, weddings, graduations, holidays like Christmas, and even Valentine's Day. A mug with a favorite photo, a heartfelt message, or a meaningful quote can turn a simple object into a treasured item.

2. Corporate Branding: Businesses use mug printing to promote their brand. A logo-printed mug can serve as an effective marketing tool. Whether given to employees, clients, or customers, a branded mug offers continuous brand visibility every time it’s used.

3. Merchandise for Artists and Influencers: Independent artists, designers, and online influencers often design and sell custom mugs as part of their merchandise. It’s an easy and low-cost product to produce, and it helps fans support their favorite creators.

4. Event Memorabilia: Weddings, company parties, conferences, and fundraisers often use printed mugs as souvenirs. Adding the event’s name, date, and design makes it easy to remember the special day.

5. Motivational and Fun Designs: Many people enjoy mugs with inspirational quotes, jokes, memes, or artistic patterns. These mugs make everyday coffee moments more enjoyable and can reflect one’s personality or mood.

Types of Mug Printing Techniques

There are several techniques used in the mug printing industry, each suited for different needs and budgets:

1. Sublimation Printing: This is the most common method for full-color mug printing. Sublimation uses heat to transfer dye into the mug’s surface. The result is a vibrant, durable, and dishwasher-safe print that doesn’t fade easily.

2. Screen Printing: Ideal for larger quantities and simpler designs, screen printing is cost-effective when printing one or two colors. It’s often used for bulk orders in promotional campaigns.

3. Digital Printing: This method is perfect for small batches or highly detailed images. It works like a regular printer and allows for photo-quality images to be printed on mugs.

4. UV Printing: UV printing uses ultraviolet light to dry and cure the ink instantly. This method allows for fast, high-resolution printing and is great for both ceramic and non-traditional surfaces like metal or glass mugs.

5. Hand Painting and Vinyl Application: While not technically printing, custom hand-painted mugs or mugs decorated with vinyl decals offer a handcrafted, artistic feel. These are often found on handmade marketplaces.

Starting a Mug Printing Business

Mug printing is not just a hobby—it can also be a profitable business. Many entrepreneurs have launched small online stores selling custom mugs, either through platforms like Etsy or by creating their own websites. Some key steps to get started include:

Investing in a mug press and sublimation printer

Learning graphic design tools (like Adobe Illustrator or Canva)

Partnering with local suppliers or using print-on-demand services

Building an online presence through social media and e-commerce platforms

Since mugs are lightweight and durable, they’re easy to package and ship, making them ideal for online sales.

Sustainability and Eco-Friendly Options

As consumers become more environmentally conscious, there’s a growing demand for sustainable printing methods and eco-friendly mugs. Companies are now offering mugs made from bamboo, recycled ceramic, or biodegradable materials. Some also use non-toxic inks and water-based printing methods.

Reusable printed mugs also help reduce waste from disposable paper cups. Encouraging people to use custom mugs at work or on the go promotes a more sustainable lifestyle.

Tips for Creating the Perfect Printed Mug

Choose high-quality images: Blurry or low-resolution pictures won’t look good on a printed mug.

Keep the design simple and clear: Especially for small mugs, too much detail can make the design hard to read.

Think about colors: Bright, bold colors often stand out more. Consider how your design will look on both white and colored mugs.

Know your audience: Design based on the preferences of your gift recipient or target customer.

Conclusion

Mug printing (krūzīšu apdruka) is more than just putting a picture on a cup—it’s a way to connect, promote, and personalize everyday moments. Whether you're giving a heartfelt gift, building a brand, or simply adding a splash of joy to your kitchen, a custom mug is a creative and affordable option.

From personal memories to professional branding, printed mugs offer a canvas for self-expression and meaningful communication. As technology improves and creative possibilities expand, mug printing will continue to be a favorite choice for individuals and businesses alike.

[sublimationblanksproduct]

Why Sublimation Bags Are Changing the Custom Print Game

🎨 Why Sublimation Bags Are Changing the Custom Print Game 👜

Custom printing just got more durable, stylish, and fun.

💡 What’s a Sublimation Bag?

A sublimation bag is made from polyester fabric that’s ready to absorb dye through a heat press. Your design becomes part of the material—not printed on top—so it won’t peel, crack, or fade.

🔗 Shop Sublimation Bags at SublimationBlanksProduct.com

🌟 Why Creators Love Sublimation Bags

🎨 Edge-to-edge full-color prints

💧 Fade & wash resistant

💼 Durable + lightweight

💰 Low-cost blanks = high profits

🧪 Heat Press Settings (Quick Chart)

Bag Type Temp (°F) Time (sec) Pressure Canvas Tote 400°F 45–60 Medium Cosmetic Pouch 385–400°F 50 Light-Medium Neoprene Sleeve 390°F 60 Medium-High

✅ Tip: Pre-press for 5 seconds and use butcher paper between bag and press.

🎁 Popular Design Ideas

📸 Photo collage totes (family or pet themes)

💄 Personalized pouches with names or initials

🖌️ Artist merch bags with seamless patterns

💻 Gamer-themed laptop sleeves

#sublimationbags

[bulkmockify]

Struggling with mockups? Automate them with BulkMockify!

Got designs ready for sublimation? BulkMockify turns them into mockups for tumblers, mugs, and more in just minutes. Sell them on Etsy or DesignBundles!

[designmindsstudio]

Perfect for sublimation artists, BulkMockify automates mockup creation for tumblers, mugs, and more. Ready to make your workflow easier?

[subliprintpalace]

The Only Mockup Tool You Need for Your Business

[clevermindseo]

Stand Out at Your Next Event with Custom Table Covers

When it comes to making a bold statement at trade shows, conferences, and promotional events, custom table covers are an underrated yet powerful branding tool. At Team Phun, we specialize in table covers with logos, helping brands like yours make a memorable impression.

Whether you're exhibiting at a trade show or setting up a booth at a community fair, having branded table covers that reflect your company identity is essential. Here’s everything you need to know about choosing the right custom printed tablecloths to elevate your event presence.

Why Custom Table Covers Matter

Think of your table as the centerpiece of your display. A plain table can look dull and uninspiring. But a custom tablecloth instantly transforms it into a professional and eye-catching station. With your logo tablecloth front and center, attendees will recognize and remember your brand.

Benefits of Branded Table Covers:

Brand Visibility: Showcase your logo and tagline clearly with printed tablecloths.

Professional Look: A clean, fitted table cover gives your booth a polished appearance.

Versatility: Perfect for trade shows, promotional events, pop-ups, and more.

Types of Table Covers We Offer

At Team Phun, we provide a wide variety of custom table drapes to suit your needs:

1. Fitted Table Covers

These snug covers give a tailored look, ideal for high-traffic areas where you want everything in place. Perfect for 6 ft and 8 ft tables, our fitted table covers keep your branding sharp and neat.

2. Stretch Table Covers

Our stretch table covers offer a sleek, modern aesthetic. Made from durable stretch polyester, these covers hug the table and eliminate wrinkles, ensuring your booth always looks on point.

3. 6 ft Table Cover with Logo

One of our most popular options, the 6 ft table cover with logo is perfect for standard event tables. Custom-printed with your design, it's both practical and impactful.

Customization Options

We use high-quality sublimation and screen-printing techniques to deliver vibrant, long-lasting custom printed tablecloths. You can upload your logo or work with our in-house design team to create the perfect personalized tablecloth that aligns with your brand.

Options Include:

Full-color or single-color printing

All sides printing or front-only

Various fabric types (polyester, spandex)

Open or closed back styles

Ideal for Any Event

Our promotional table covers are perfect for:

Trade Show Tablecloths: Create a lasting impression in a sea of booths.

Corporate Events: Display your brand professionally at networking or hiring events.

Farmers Markets & Pop-Ups: Easily transportable and quick to set up.

School or Non-Profit Events: Promote your message in a visually appealing way.

Why Choose Team Phun?

With years of experience creating branded merchandise, we understand the importance of quality, timeliness, and creativity. Our custom table covers are made to order with precision and care—ensuring you’re ready to impress at your next event.

Get Started Today!

Elevate your brand’s presence with premium custom table covers from Team Phun. Whether you're after a logo tablecloth, a trade show tablecloth, or a fully custom printed tablecloth, we have you (and your table) covered.

👉 Visit teamphun.com/table-covers to explore options or request a quote.

[imprintkidsclothing]

Learn How to Sublimate a Baby Onesie – Easy Guide for Crafters & Sellers

Looking to create custom baby onesies that are vibrant, durable, and totally adorable? Our latest blog post, “How to Sublimate a Baby Onesie: A Beginner-Friendly Guide,” walks you through everything you need to know to get started with sublimation printing at home.

Perfect for Etsy sellers, small shop owners, and creative parents, this guide covers the essentials—from choosing the right polyester onesie to using a sublimation printer and heat press for long-lasting results. You'll also get a step-by-step breakdown of the entire process, plus helpful tips to avoid common beginner mistakes.

Learn what sublimation is and why it’s perfect for baby apparel

Get a checklist of supplies to set up your own DIY sublimation station

Follow our easy step-by-step process for pro-level results

Discover trusted brands like The Laughing Giraffe® for sublimation-friendly onesies

Whether you’re designing funny baby gifts, milestone outfits, or custom creations for your boutique, sublimation is a fun and profitable way to make your ideas come to life.

👉 Read the full article on our blog and start creating custom baby onesies that parents will love and babies will look adorable in!

[insourcecorporation]

Shirt Printing Machines: A Complete Guide to Choosing the Right One for Your Business

The custom apparel industry has exploded in recent years, driven by demand for personalized fashion, promotional clothing, and branded merchandise. At the heart of this booming sector is the shirt printing machine—an essential piece of equipment for anyone in the garment printing business. Whether you're a startup launching a T-shirt brand or a print shop expanding your services, investing in the right shirt printing machine can make a significant impact on your productivity, quality, and profitability.

This guide covers everything you need to know about shirt printing machines: how they work, the different types available, their benefits, and how to choose the best one for your business needs.

What Is a Shirt Printing Machine?

A shirt printing machine is a device used to transfer designs, graphics, or text onto fabric—most commonly cotton, polyester, or blends. These machines use various printing techniques to apply ink, heat transfers, or dye directly onto the garment, resulting in professional-grade, durable prints.

Shirt printing machines are used for:

Custom T-shirt production

Sportswear and team uniforms

Corporate apparel

Promotional clothing

Fashion brands and online stores

Types of Shirt Printing Machines

There are several types of shirt printing machines, each with its own strengths, costs, and applications.

1. Screen Printing Machines

Best for: High-volume orders with the same design

How it works: Uses stencils (screens) and ink pushed through a mesh onto the shirt

Pros: Excellent print quality, cost-effective in bulk, durable prints

Cons: Time-consuming setup, not ideal for multicolor or small orders

2. Direct-to-Garment (DTG) Printers

Best for: Small batches and full-color designs

How it works: Works like an inkjet printer but prints directly onto the fabric

Pros: No setup time, great for detailed artwork, supports full-color designs

Cons: Slower than screen printing, requires pre-treatment of shirts, best on cotton

3. Heat Press Machines

Best for: Beginners, low-cost startups, or adding names/numbers

How it works: Transfers a design (printed on special paper or vinyl) onto a shirt using heat and pressure

Pros: Affordable, easy to use, compact

Cons: Not as durable as screen or DTG, limited to transfer material quality

4. Sublimation Printers

Best for: Polyester garments and light-colored fabrics

How it works: Dye turns into gas and embeds into fabric under heat and pressure

Pros: Long-lasting, high-resolution prints

Cons: Only works on light-colored, polyester-rich garments

5. Embroidery Machines (Bonus)

Not a printer, but a popular shirt decoration tool that uses thread for logos and text

Pros: Professional, high-end look

Cons: Limited to simpler designs, not ideal for full-color images

Key Factors to Consider When Buying

Choosing the right shirt printing machine depends on your production needs, budget, and goals. Here are the key things to evaluate:

Volume: High-volume businesses may prefer screen printing, while small-batch producers may opt for DTG or heat press.

Print Quality: DTG and sublimation offer high-resolution results ideal for photo-realistic prints.

Fabric Type: Sublimation is best for polyester; DTG works best on cotton.

Colors: For multicolor or full-color prints, DTG or sublimation is more efficient than traditional screen printing.

Budget: Heat press is the most affordable option; DTG and sublimation have higher upfront costs but offer better detail and flexibility.

Maintenance: DTG printers need regular cleaning and maintenance; heat press and screen printing setups are easier to maintain.

Benefits of Shirt Printing Machines

Customization – Produce personalized designs for individual clients or events

Speed & Efficiency – Complete bulk orders in less time

Business Scalability – Easily expand your offerings and production capacity

Profitability – High margins on custom apparel

Creative Control – Print your own designs without outsourcing

Brand Building – Great tool for starting and growing a fashion or merchandise brand

Ideal Users of Shirt Printing Machines

Startup Clothing Brands – Launch your designs with minimal investment

E-commerce Sellers – Create print-on-demand products for Shopify or Etsy

Promotional Agencies – Produce branded clothing for events or corporate clients

Print Shops – Offer a wider range of printing services

Schools & Teams – Make uniforms, team shirts, and spirit wear in-house

Final Thoughts

A shirt printing machine is a vital investment for anyone looking to enter or expand in the custom apparel industry. With the right machine, you can produce high-quality shirts efficiently and cost-effectively while offering endless creative possibilities. Whether you're printing a single design or fulfilling hundreds of orders, there's a solution tailored to your needs.

[texasmadedtf]

Beginner’s Guide to DTF T-Shirt Printing in 2025

In 2025, Direct-to-Film (DTF) printing has taken the apparel industry by storm, especially among creative entrepreneurs looking to start a t-shirt business from home. With low start-up costs, minimal space requirements, and unlimited design possibilities, DTF printing is now one of the easiest ways to build a profitable clothing brand from your living room or garage.

If you’re wondering how to get started, this beginner’s guide will walk you through everything, from DTF supplies to equipment and tips for turning your hobby into a successful home-based business.

What is DTF Printing?

DTF (Direct-to-Film) printing is a process where you print your design onto a special film using a DTF printer, apply adhesive powder, and then heat press it onto a garment. Unlike traditional methods like screen printing or sublimation, DTF allows for full-color transfers on cotton, polyester, blends, and dark fabrics, with no weeding or pre-treatment required.

In short, it's fast, versatile, and beginner-friendly.

Why DTF Printing is Perfect for Beginners

Starting a t-shirt business from home used to require a big investment in screen printing setups or expensive DTG printers. But DTF changed the game.

Here’s why beginners love it:

Low Start-Up Costs A basic DTF setup costs far less than other printing methods and requires limited space.

No Pre-Treatment Required You can print on cotton, polyester, blends, and dark garments with no extra steps.

Full-Color Designs You’re not limited by screen counts or vinyl, we’re talking photo-quality prints.

Fast Turnaround Print and press in minutes. Ideal for small batches or custom one-off designs.

What Do You Need to Start DTF Printing at Home?

If you’re in Texas and looking for DTF supplies, you’re in luck. Texas Made DTF  offers everything you need to get started with premium quality and fast shipping.

Here’s a list of essential DTF printing equipment and supplies:

1. DTF Printer

A desktop DTF printer (like L1800 or XP600) is a great choice for beginners. These printers are modified to use DTF inks and films.

2. DTF Inks

High-quality pigment inks designed specifically for DTF printers are critical for sharp, vibrant prints.

3. DTF Film

This is your printing surface. Choose hot peel or cold peel film depending on your workflow preference.

4. Adhesive Powder

After printing, the film is coated in a special hot-melt adhesive powder that bonds the design to the garment.

5. Heat Press Machine

A quality heat press ensures that your transfers adhere properly and look professional.

6. Design Software

Use tools like Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, or even Canva to create your designs. A RIP software is used to prepare files for printing.

Step-by-Step: How to Print and Press Your First T-Shirt

Starting your t-shirt business with DTF printing is straightforward:

Design Your Artwork Create a high-resolution PNG or PSD file with a transparent background.

Print on DTF Film Use your RIP software and DTF printer to print the design onto film.

Apply Adhesive Powder While the ink is still wet, apply hot-melt powder evenly and shake off the excess.

Cure the Film Use a heat gun or oven to melt the adhesive powder. It should turn from powdery to glossy.

Press onto the Shirt Use your heat press (usually at 300–320°F for 15–20 seconds) to transfer the design onto your garment.

Peel the Film Depending on your film type, peel hot or cold, and you’re done!

How to Launch Your T-Shirt Business from Home

Starting is one thing. Scaling is another. Here’s how to build momentum:

✅ Niche Down

Focus on a specific market, funny shirts for nurses, pet lovers, gym buffs, etc. Specific sells.

✅ Build a Brand

Even if you’re printing from your kitchen, your brand should look pro. Design a logo, build an Instagram presence, and create a clean Shopify or Etsy store.

✅ Offer Custom Orders

Use your DTF setup to accept custom prints for birthdays, local teams, or small businesses.

✅ Promote Locally & Online

Join Facebook groups, attend local markets, and use hashtags to get noticed. Leverage Texas pride with region-specific designs.

Where to Buy DTF Supplies in Texas

If you're based in Texas and want high-quality, fast-shipping DTF supplies, TexasMadeDTF.com is your go-to source. We offer:

Hot Peel & Cold Peel Films

Vibrant, Fade-Resistant DTF Inks

Reliable Adhesive Powder

Starter Bundles & Pro Kits

We help creators and small business owners print bold, ship fast, and grow smarter, without the stress.

Final Thoughts

In 2025, the barriers to starting a t-shirt business are lower than ever, thanks to the rise of DTF printing. With minimal upfront investment, fast production times, and endless creative freedom, you can start printing from home and building a brand that sells.

Ready to create with confidence? Explore our full range of beginner-friendly DTF supplies in Texas at Texas Made DTF and launch your dream t-shirt brand today.

[iohnmcmullen]

Oraspec5

By

Iohn R McMullen

David awoke to the soft patter of November drizzle on the window, which evoked a solemn melancholia as it obscured the drab and dismal colors of the entirely overcast morning sky.  Somberness was nothing abnormal for the man, and in fact it could elicit a quiet stoic joy from time to time, especially on a cold and dreary morning such as this, where the world itself seemed to reflect his inner being, expanding it into a deep and rich, sublime unity of person and world.

With no one having spent the night with him, David was alone in his apartment and thus only had to prepare breakfast for one, but not before getting the mail. Life as a bachelor was not what he preferred, but having known real love and the loss of it, David could hardly abide roommates and thus living alone was his only option.

 He refrained from looking through the stack of mailings as he returned to his apartment from the lobby, and casually set the pile on the table and began scrambling eggs for his morning meal.  The dribble of the percolating coffee brought to mind the order he had made the previous week, an order in line with his career and favorite hobby, designer chemistry.

Although his market was rather niche, due to all young people preferring to partake of the mainstream recreational substances, the substances they have heard of both culturally and amongst their friends, David was able to hustle enough to pay for his necessities without working a real job.

The most desirable aspect of designer chemistry, besides the seemingly endless potential for novel future developments, is the fact that the law does not explicitly make such substances criminal until they are specifically made criminal.  This means that possession of 2-AcO-4-IA falls into the same legal category as the probiotics from your grocery store, or caffeine anhydrous, or even the leaves from the bush in your yard.  Obviously if an officer catches you with some bags of powder he is going to cuff you and take you in, but once the tests are performed, your charges will be dropped in a matter of days if not hours.  Thus, even with diminished profits due to a marginalized market, designer chemicals are infinitely more profitable due to the avoidance of a 7 year prison sentence somewhere down the road in your dealing career.

David poured himself a cup of steaming joe and grabbed his egg and bacon sandwich and had a seat at the table.  In between bites he flipped through the stack of mail.  A payday advance loan offer--  *Junk.*  An insurance offer--  *Junk*.  A catalog with new technology deals-- *I'll give it a once-over.*  A political canvass advertisement-- *Junk*.  Last of all an advertisement for HVAC upgrade services-- *Junk*.  Disappointed that the order had not arrived yet and at least one more day of patience was required, David harumphed and took another bite of his egg sandwich while flipping open the catalog of technology deals.

Nothing noteworthy on the first few pages, just your typical notebook PCs, video cards, monitors, televisions, and accessories;  but on the fourth page there was displayed an advertisement taking a whole half of the page promoting a deal for a virtual reality headset.  Although these had already been a very popular product for the previous decade, David had yet to splurge for the luxury of full immersion in a virtual world.  The advertisement showed the *Oraspec5 Augmented Reality Goggles* were 50% off for one day only at an independent technology store just 2 miles away.

*This deal could be too good to pass up.* David thought to himself... *I do have a decent chunk of savings from the hustling of my last batch of fluorexetamine.* In lieu of the order arriving, David decided he was going to take advantage of the bargain.

He swallowed his last bite of breakfast, put the dish in the sink, and swilled two gulps of coffee before leaving the mug on the counter and heading for the shower.

After his usual hygiene ritual, he threw on his favorite, well-worn pair of jeans, a beige polyester turtle-neck top, and a dark navy blazer before inspecting himself in the mirror to ensure he was presentable to the public.  Having passed muster, he left his room and went back to the kitchen counter for his unfinished coffee, draining the cup in one pull. Antsy to acquire the novel experience of augmented reality, David did a last once-over of his person and left the apartment, locking the door behind him.

The station for the subway which would take him the 2 miles north to the technology shop was 4 blocks away from his apartment, but David had to hesitate a moment upon exiting his building to recall which direction of travel to the station would be fastest. As he was descending the steps into the station, he heard the train he needed pull out of the station.  *Drat! Just missed it!* He bemoaned to himself, looking around the station platform to find it fresh empty.

*I should have brought my earbuds* He thought, wishing to have the luxury of entertainment while waiting the 15 minute wait for the next train to arrive.  At a less analytical point in his life, the wait would have been as mundane and boring as it can be expected to be, but lately David had noticed that the logistics of a city can dazzle the intellect with a seemingly inexhaustible reservoir of marvels of engineering and planning so as to make any down-time, especially in a subway station, a philosophical treat.

David pictured in his mind the tunneling crews boring the subway tunnel a few feet under the busy street loaded with traffic, while narrowly avoiding the adjacent subterranean jungle of pipes that supply clean drinking water en masse to each floor of each building of each block of the city, while taking all contaminated water safely away from humanity's living spaces.  That combined with the city's need for electricity for every room of every building in the city, and the steam works present to keep it warm during winter, make the task of planning a subway tunnel through the tangle of other infrastructure seem like a miracle.

The philosophical masturbation had David so entranced that his train arrived in what seemed like no time at all, and he climbed aboard while ruminating about best possible worlds. The 2 mile journey had 4 stops along the way to the station closest to Eastwick's Technology Emporium, and was exactly as uneventful as a commute should always be. 

Reaching street level, David recognized that the address was a block-and-a-half away, and found it with no problem.

The wall display showcasing the Oraspec5 Augmented Reality Goggles was nearly empty, with only 2 units left.  He grabbed one of the two remaining units and pulled the advertisement out of his pocket to show to the clerk.  "You're lucky that you came first thing in the morning, for certain these would be sold out by the afternoon." The clerk said as David pulled out his debit card to pay the 50% price of the goggles.

"I'm thankful too, I've been curious about these devices for a while now but have never seen them as a necessity until your sale compelled me to purchase a set.  Would've been a shame to arrive with them sold out."

"They say these Oraspec5 are top-of-the-line equipment, and you will never find a more genuine experience of augmented reality.  I hope you enjoy your purchase." The clerk said, fulfilling his job requirement of amiability and enthusiasm.  David replied with a generic "Thank you, I'm sure I'll love them.  Have a wonderful day." before grabbing the bag with his purchase and heading back out of the store and towards the subway station, craving a novel experience.

The trip back to his pad was as eventful as the trip to the store, that is, totally mundane, and his blazer was only slightly damp from the cold drizzle as he unlocked his apartment and slid inside.

David placed the bag containing his new goggles on the table and went into his room to remove his shoes and the damp blazer.  A glance at the ornately carved ivory chest atop his dresser caused a quiet and lurking thought in the back of his mind to come leaping forward: *I should enhance this first experience with augmented reality... After all, you only have one first impression*.  He reached into the ivory box and pulled out a small unique-sized  bag with a scientific label on it-- *5-AcO-FXE*-- 5-Acetoxy-3-Fluorexetamine.

Hardly ever having repleted his stash to nothing, David's apartment was nearly guaranteed to have one of a myriad of designer chemicals, and 5-AcO-FXE was a sure-fire catalyst for enhancing augmented reality experiences.  As a dissociative entheogen, 5-AcO-FXE is able to dissolve a person's ego and take their mind to Nirvana, or allow them to explore dreams while fully awake.  Applying this state of mind to an augmented reality experience would be like cream to coffee.

David took the small bag out to the kitchen table and gently sprinkled the powder onto the surface.  *10...40...60...80! There! That should be about 80 milligrams* He thought as he was carefully tapping the bag to ensure tiny manageable amounts of powder came out rather than a big clump.

He went over to the drawer by the sink and pulled out a half-sized drinking straw and returned to the table.  Bending over the pile of powder, he placed the straw in his left nostril and gently lifted the pile up onto his sinus membrane.  *Soft as snow.*  There was no pain, and the scent and flavor of the designer chem signified it was really pure, really high quality stuff.  David knew that it would be about 15 minutes before anything significant happened to his mind, so he decided to prepare the Oraspec5 for usage.

Opening the box, he pulled the goggles out and examined them to find the various buttons and charging ports.  Having found the charging port, he plugged it in.  The goggles lit up but only to display the charging icon and they could not fully power on yet.

David suddenly sensed a deep aura surrounding his head as his personal conception of identity dissolved into a monistic being; pure awareness with the intellect being subject to the will, as if his mind were the Void in The Book of Genesis, with his intellect inspecting the face of the deep.

The mind was so much more immanent, so much more powerful, than the environment while in this state of being, the environment can easily be judged to be a secondary or tertiary level of truth relative to the essence of pure being, the principle of intellect, the soul. 

David reveled in this headspace for a few moments, enjoying the rapid heightening of his wisdom, before glancing at the Oraspec5 and discovering that they had been charged enough to power on.  He fiddled with some buttons on the side and discovered several modes of operation to select from.  He could watch media... he could play games... he could connect his browser... *What's this? An Unlock Reality Overlay*?  This option seemed self-explanatory but also too open-ended to be finished technology.  David presumed that the reality overlay option would examine objects and the environment and give detailed information through the goggles, perhaps even provide information based on facial recognition. 

He was deeply intrigued, to say the least, and the novelty of it, combined with his 5-AcO-FXE high, were proving to have him more excited than he had been in a long time.  He checked to see if the goggles could be used while still plugged in and charging, and was pleased he did not have to wait to test out the feature. 

He selected *Oraspec5 Unlock Reality* and glanced into the goggle display, noticing that it was filming the floor directly in front of the goggles.  Bemused by speculating about what objects in his apartment might convey information, he put the AR goggles on his head and over his eyes.

David glanced around the room with the goggles and was shocked about what he saw. All about him was devastation and fire-storm.  The apartment was no longer an apartment but a ruin, with half the walls blown out, exposing the bright orange storm outside, with winds and fire as intense as a hurricane. David was aghast.  The 5-AcO-FXE diminished all physiological response to fear to null, but his mind was stricken with pure terror, the line between reality and augmented reality began to blur, and a maddening panic was overtaking David's psyche.

As he scanned his vicinity, revolting with horror, he began to feel intense heat encompassing his body, growing in intensity as rapidly as he was examining the post-apocalyptic devastation, taking in more and more of the dread scene.  As his temperature rose, his panic heightened the speed of his intellect, causing it to fathom deeper and deeper, feeling his body begin to burn hotter and hotter.

…

Police and paramedics were examining David's apartment for any clues as to what had happened.  Neighbors had called emergency services after hearing a death-curdling scream coming from David's apartment, and after knocking to see if he needed help, received no response.

Security camera footage showed that David had entered the apartment and did not leave out of the only door, but there was no body inside the apartment.  There was an open bag of powder on the kitchen table with a scientific label on it saying *5-Acetoxy-Fluorexetamine* and on one of the chairs at the table there were extensive scorch marks on the seat and back, almost in the shape of a human.  Sitting on the chair was a partially melted *Oraspec5 Augmented Reality Goggle*, but there was no sign of David.