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1.1 ~ An Overview of Vinyl Material and Application Surfaces
In the sign industry, knowledge of the materials you work with is an essential ingredient in providing your customers with the very best elements available. Learn all you can about the products you use and always stay aware of improvements and price changes. Since many sign makers are in the VINYL sign industry, you should acquaint yourself to all the possible variations of this particular type of material.
Become familiar, too, with the variety of surfaces you can apply this product such as: metal and plastic sign blanks, laminated banner material, corrugated plastic sheets, MDO (Medium Density Overlay) plywood, glass windows, vehicle surfaces, and magnetic media.
1.2 ~ Pressure Sensitive Vinyl
This is the most widely used material of the vinyl sign business. Once applied, pressure sensitive vinyl looks just like a custom painted surface with only a fraction of the labor. It consists of a layer of colored, opaque or translucent vinyl material and silicone coated kraft paper with a transparent adhesive between the two. The kraft paper acts as a carrier and is eventually peeled away. Vinyl comes in rolls 15" to 48" wide by 10 to 50 yds. in length, perforated or not. It can also be obtained in various thicknesses (2 mil or 4 mil), with 2 mil being used more frequently as it is easier to work with and lasts longer. The range of metallic, fluorescent, matte, shiny, reflective, opaque or translucent choices is overwhelming. New vinyl products are constantly being introduced to achieve different effects and facilitate production.
This vinyl material is cut by a computer cutting plotter that contains a small knife which does not penetrate the backing kraft paper. The part of the image that is not desired is then lifted or weeded off from the paper. What remains will be the vinyl lettering or logo that will be applied to the finished surface. But, wait, not so fast! The image is then covered with a transfer masking tape that is designed for this purpose. This application tape is available in various sizes for your particular needs. The paper backing is then peeled away to reveal your graphic stuck to the masking tape backwards. Now the cut vinyl is ready to be applied.
The cut vinyl image can then be positioned in the appropriate area and on the surface desired. When in place, the transfer masking tape is removed and "Presto!" you have your finished product.
Pressure sensitive vinyl can be applied to almost any smooth, clean surface. As you scan your surroundings, the possibilities are astounding. There are just a few unacceptable surfaces, though. These would be rough concrete or brick, and latex painted wood board or plywood.
1.3 ~ Corrugated Plastic
Corrugated plastic sheeting is most often likened to "plastic cardboard". It is light weight, low cost, made from polypropylene, and can be purchased in many opaque and translucent colors. This superior alternative material can be used outdoors as well as indoors because it highly resists moisture, stands up well to heat or cold, and does not fade easily. This product is also reusable and unaffected by most chemicals. Available in a range of thicknesses from 2mm to 6mm.
1.4 ~ Metal and Plastic Sign Blanks
Metal sign blanks made of aluminum can be purchased in many sizes and colors. Metal blanks are manufactured in thicknesses ranging from .024" to .040", with prepunched holes if needed. Custom holes may be drilled. Light weight corrugated plastic or polystyrene plastic blanks can also be used.
Aluminum sign blanks may arrive with a protective plastic wrapping. If they do not, you may wish to protect the blanks yourself with application tape. In addition, metal sign blanks may be cut from a sheet of 4 x 8 metal material by your local sheet metal shop. This affords many sign companies flexibility as to size. It is also a budget consideration.
Blanks are appropriate for directional, real estate, and open house signage needs. The cut vinyl design is applied directly to the cleaned surface for a very professional-looking, finished sign.
1.5 ~ Staked and Small Framed Signs
Once the sign blank of the customer's choice has been prepared, it can easily be inserted in a steel sign frame. These frames can be of various styles: A-Frame, stakes on either side, or stakes in the middle with step bars for easier installation in the ground.
Also available for purchase are framed all-in-one sign kits that come in various steel rod thicknesses, cross supports, and sizes.
1.6 ~ Plexiglass
This material has been used in the sign industry for many years. It weathers well but the background must be painted after the lettering is cut and applied in reverse to the rear of the sign. The finished sign is then mounted into a frame and then installed on the building or a pole. Frames can be purchased from manufacturers or a pre-cut frame kit can be assembled.
Lexan brand material is similar to plexiglass but is virtually unbreakable. Sign construction is treated in the same manner. Lexan brand material can be installed where added security or stress from natural elements is a factor.
1.7 ~ Banners
Banners are an attention-getting medium that's perfect for temporary use, especially outdoors. In recent years the availability and selection of materials have increased.
The best type of banner product for the application of vinyl graphics is made from a laminated vinyl fabric. This polyester and nylon cloth laminated with vinyl provides a smooth surface to apply the lettering. It ensures good adhesion. The cloth or scrim provides excellent strength, too. This banner product is available in various colors, lengths and several weights from 10 oz. to 20 oz. per square yard.
Banner material can be ordered either grommeted or not. Grommets are circular metal rings imbedded into the material that will be used to tie the banner in place. You will have to install your own grommets if you order blank banner product. Order a professional automatic tool for this purpose.
1.8 ~ Magnetic Media
Magnetic media is purchased in a 25 ft. to 200 ft. roll in a variety of colors. The flexible media is available in thicknesses that range from 15 mil to 60 mil. It can be cut easily with a sharp knife into rectangular or custom shapes to exactly fit the door of the vehicle. The customer will usually order a pair of these signs for his movable identification.
The use of this identification product is increasing. It enables the customer to use his vehicle during the day for business promotion and yet to just remove them in the evening or on the weekend when using it as family transportation.
Avoid the use of this product on non-metallic body fillers, simulated wood grain siding, and uncured paint.
1.9 ~ Vehicle and Boat Surfaces
Just as you can apply pressure sensitive vinyl to metal sign blanks, it is applied directly to the vehicle, or boat surface. The company name, logo, telephone number or a graphic design can cover as little or as much of the vehicle as the customer desires.
Usually the customer will leave his vehicle at your shop for you to do the application. There may be instances such as boat identification or graphics, or semi truck lettering that the "vehicle" may be too large to work on directly at your location, but don't count that out! For a small fee, work at their location and take advantage of the additional advertising that this can offer as others spot you working. Along with your supplies, remember to take some business cards.
2.0 ~ Glass Surfaces
Any glass surface, particularly a window, is a perfect background for the application of pressure sensitive vinyl graphics and lettering. Again, vinyl can be of any color specified but should be of a light tone to contrast with the dark interior. Fancy vinyl that imitates an etched surface is a rich addition as is gold vinyl that simulates gold leaf.
The customer can opt to apply the lettering himself to save application cost. It would be helpful to have a printed sheet of applications tips he can refer to.
2.1 ~ Architectural Plaques
Interior message and identification signs are another growing segment of the vinyl sign industry. Although stock directional, handicapped, and identification signs may be ordered, many office complexes, hospitals, and retail businesses have specialized needs and require tailored messages. Custom architectural plaques with vinyl lettering or graphics fill this requirement.
Architectural Plaques may be obtained in sizes, styles, and finishes of all imaginations. The cut vinyl letters or graphics are then applied to these plaques. The plaques can be reused by removing the existing vinyl and reapplying the newly cut lettering.
2.2 ~ Other Backgrounds
The introduction of 4'x8' MDO (medium density overlaid) plywood and PVC sheets have assisted signmakers in applying vinyl graphics to a larger area. These materials have a very smooth finish not available on actual plywood board.
Other backgrounds need not be specially purchased. Display racks, file cabinets, shelving, metal doors, and a host of other office and retail applications are additional avenues of signage that can accept pressure sensitive vinyl. Look around your own surroundings and count the possible backgrounds available.
Yes, there will always be new products and ideas for vinyl usage introduced into the marketplace. Some of these materials will be innovative. Some will just be an improvement over the current products. Continually stay aware of how these can be adapted to meet customers' needs.
Copyright © 1999 Grayson Business Computers, Inc. All Rights Reserved
In the sign industry, knowledge of the materials you work with is an essential ingredient in providing your customers with the very best elements available. Learn all you can about the products you use and always stay aware of improvements and price changes. Since many sign makers are in the VINYL sign industry, you should acquaint yourself to all the possible variations of this particular type of material.
Become familiar, too, with the variety of surfaces you can apply this product such as: metal and plastic sign blanks, laminated banner material, corrugated plastic sheets, MDO (Medium Density Overlay) plywood, glass windows, vehicle surfaces, and magnetic media.
1.2 ~ Pressure Sensitive Vinyl
This is the most widely used material of the vinyl sign business. Once applied, pressure sensitive vinyl looks just like a custom painted surface with only a fraction of the labor. It consists of a layer of colored, opaque or translucent vinyl material and silicone coated kraft paper with a transparent adhesive between the two. The kraft paper acts as a carrier and is eventually peeled away. Vinyl comes in rolls 15" to 48" wide by 10 to 50 yds. in length, perforated or not. It can also be obtained in various thicknesses (2 mil or 4 mil), with 2 mil being used more frequently as it is easier to work with and lasts longer. The range of metallic, fluorescent, matte, shiny, reflective, opaque or translucent choices is overwhelming. New vinyl products are constantly being introduced to achieve different effects and facilitate production.
This vinyl material is cut by a computer cutting plotter that contains a small knife which does not penetrate the backing kraft paper. The part of the image that is not desired is then lifted or weeded off from the paper. What remains will be the vinyl lettering or logo that will be applied to the finished surface. But, wait, not so fast! The image is then covered with a transfer masking tape that is designed for this purpose. This application tape is available in various sizes for your particular needs. The paper backing is then peeled away to reveal your graphic stuck to the masking tape backwards. Now the cut vinyl is ready to be applied.
The cut vinyl image can then be positioned in the appropriate area and on the surface desired. When in place, the transfer masking tape is removed and "Presto!" you have your finished product.
Pressure sensitive vinyl can be applied to almost any smooth, clean surface. As you scan your surroundings, the possibilities are astounding. There are just a few unacceptable surfaces, though. These would be rough concrete or brick, and latex painted wood board or plywood.
1.3 ~ Corrugated Plastic
Corrugated plastic sheeting is most often likened to "plastic cardboard". It is light weight, low cost, made from polypropylene, and can be purchased in many opaque and translucent colors. This superior alternative material can be used outdoors as well as indoors because it highly resists moisture, stands up well to heat or cold, and does not fade easily. This product is also reusable and unaffected by most chemicals. Available in a range of thicknesses from 2mm to 6mm.
1.4 ~ Metal and Plastic Sign Blanks
Metal sign blanks made of aluminum can be purchased in many sizes and colors. Metal blanks are manufactured in thicknesses ranging from .024" to .040", with prepunched holes if needed. Custom holes may be drilled. Light weight corrugated plastic or polystyrene plastic blanks can also be used.
Aluminum sign blanks may arrive with a protective plastic wrapping. If they do not, you may wish to protect the blanks yourself with application tape. In addition, metal sign blanks may be cut from a sheet of 4 x 8 metal material by your local sheet metal shop. This affords many sign companies flexibility as to size. It is also a budget consideration.
Blanks are appropriate for directional, real estate, and open house signage needs. The cut vinyl design is applied directly to the cleaned surface for a very professional-looking, finished sign.
1.5 ~ Staked and Small Framed Signs
Once the sign blank of the customer's choice has been prepared, it can easily be inserted in a steel sign frame. These frames can be of various styles: A-Frame, stakes on either side, or stakes in the middle with step bars for easier installation in the ground.
Also available for purchase are framed all-in-one sign kits that come in various steel rod thicknesses, cross supports, and sizes.
1.6 ~ Plexiglass
This material has been used in the sign industry for many years. It weathers well but the background must be painted after the lettering is cut and applied in reverse to the rear of the sign. The finished sign is then mounted into a frame and then installed on the building or a pole. Frames can be purchased from manufacturers or a pre-cut frame kit can be assembled.
Lexan brand material is similar to plexiglass but is virtually unbreakable. Sign construction is treated in the same manner. Lexan brand material can be installed where added security or stress from natural elements is a factor.
1.7 ~ Banners
Banners are an attention-getting medium that's perfect for temporary use, especially outdoors. In recent years the availability and selection of materials have increased.
The best type of banner product for the application of vinyl graphics is made from a laminated vinyl fabric. This polyester and nylon cloth laminated with vinyl provides a smooth surface to apply the lettering. It ensures good adhesion. The cloth or scrim provides excellent strength, too. This banner product is available in various colors, lengths and several weights from 10 oz. to 20 oz. per square yard.
Banner material can be ordered either grommeted or not. Grommets are circular metal rings imbedded into the material that will be used to tie the banner in place. You will have to install your own grommets if you order blank banner product. Order a professional automatic tool for this purpose.
1.8 ~ Magnetic Media
Magnetic media is purchased in a 25 ft. to 200 ft. roll in a variety of colors. The flexible media is available in thicknesses that range from 15 mil to 60 mil. It can be cut easily with a sharp knife into rectangular or custom shapes to exactly fit the door of the vehicle. The customer will usually order a pair of these signs for his movable identification.
The use of this identification product is increasing. It enables the customer to use his vehicle during the day for business promotion and yet to just remove them in the evening or on the weekend when using it as family transportation.
Avoid the use of this product on non-metallic body fillers, simulated wood grain siding, and uncured paint.
1.9 ~ Vehicle and Boat Surfaces
Just as you can apply pressure sensitive vinyl to metal sign blanks, it is applied directly to the vehicle, or boat surface. The company name, logo, telephone number or a graphic design can cover as little or as much of the vehicle as the customer desires.
Usually the customer will leave his vehicle at your shop for you to do the application. There may be instances such as boat identification or graphics, or semi truck lettering that the "vehicle" may be too large to work on directly at your location, but don't count that out! For a small fee, work at their location and take advantage of the additional advertising that this can offer as others spot you working. Along with your supplies, remember to take some business cards.
2.0 ~ Glass Surfaces
Any glass surface, particularly a window, is a perfect background for the application of pressure sensitive vinyl graphics and lettering. Again, vinyl can be of any color specified but should be of a light tone to contrast with the dark interior. Fancy vinyl that imitates an etched surface is a rich addition as is gold vinyl that simulates gold leaf.
The customer can opt to apply the lettering himself to save application cost. It would be helpful to have a printed sheet of applications tips he can refer to.
2.1 ~ Architectural Plaques
Interior message and identification signs are another growing segment of the vinyl sign industry. Although stock directional, handicapped, and identification signs may be ordered, many office complexes, hospitals, and retail businesses have specialized needs and require tailored messages. Custom architectural plaques with vinyl lettering or graphics fill this requirement.
Architectural Plaques may be obtained in sizes, styles, and finishes of all imaginations. The cut vinyl letters or graphics are then applied to these plaques. The plaques can be reused by removing the existing vinyl and reapplying the newly cut lettering.
2.2 ~ Other Backgrounds
The introduction of 4'x8' MDO (medium density overlaid) plywood and PVC sheets have assisted signmakers in applying vinyl graphics to a larger area. These materials have a very smooth finish not available on actual plywood board.
Other backgrounds need not be specially purchased. Display racks, file cabinets, shelving, metal doors, and a host of other office and retail applications are additional avenues of signage that can accept pressure sensitive vinyl. Look around your own surroundings and count the possible backgrounds available.
Yes, there will always be new products and ideas for vinyl usage introduced into the marketplace. Some of these materials will be innovative. Some will just be an improvement over the current products. Continually stay aware of how these can be adapted to meet customers' needs.
Copyright © 1999 Grayson Business Computers, Inc. All Rights Reserved
Guide created: 09/11/06 (updated 08/16/08)
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