Many years ago, I had one of those bright ideas that backfired on me. Instead of extruding lines of adhesive across the web of a production line laminating one sheet of paper to another, I replaced the extrusion heads with six spray values. I learned an important lesson. Anytime you atomize something, it gets into […] Read more »
How to Fix Edge Peeling Vinyl Graphics
Once a graphic starts peeling, forget about trying to reapply any edges, which have already lifted. The adhesive on these peeled edges have most likely been contaminated with dirt. Read more »
Step-By-Step Wet Application Instruction
Using an application fluid can aid the application of a vinyl films that have an aggressive adhesive system. The application fluid helps float the graphic onto the surface to prevent pre-adhesion (the vinyl sticking before you want it to). Nevertheless, for most vinyl installations, you should not apply the graphics wet, especially if you can do […] Read more »
Why Use a Heavyweight Paper Application Tape
When I started in the vinyl graphics industry more than thirty years ago, there was no such thing as lighter standard weight application tape that is generally used in the sign industry. The only tapes that were used were the heavyweight premium grade premasks. Today many sign makers have never even used these premium grade […] Read more »
Gorilla Glue Gilding
Many in the sign industry, refer to my friend, Sal Cabrera, as the “Gorilla Glue Guy.” Over the years, Sal has perfected his procedures for applying metal leaf directly to tacky and bubbly Gorilla Glue as his adherent, instead of using traditional gold size. His gilding technique is unique and time-saving. In this story, I […] Read more »
Plotter Cutting Heat Transfer Films
If you are a sign maker and have a plotter or printer, garment decorating with heat transfer films is one of those prize opportunities that requires a very short learning curve and an investment in a heat press. The cost for a good clamshell press runs about $1000 to $1200, but you can buy one […] Read more »
Evaluating Heat Transfer Films
How do you determine if one brand of heat transfer film is better than another? Today, most flex films are polyurethane. But not all polyurethane films are the same. In fact, the difference from one brand to another is staggering. Here’s what to look for in comparative shopping: Read more »
The Trouble with Shrinking Shirts
Tips for Working with Heat Transfer Films Should it be a surprise that cotton tee-shirts shrink? Even us guys know that! Cotton garments shrink. 100% cotton can shrink as much as 10% to 12%. Especially if you simmer the clothes in hot water in your washer, and then bake it on high in the dryer until […] Read more »
Caring for Garments with Heat Transfers
I am frequently asked how many times you can wash a garment with a heat transfer applique before it deteriorates. Durability of this material all depends on the type of material that you are using and garment care. If you wash and dry the garment properly, a high quality polyurethane applique should last just as long as the garment itself. Read more »
Cutting and Weeding Tips for Heat Transfer Films
Not all polyurethane heat transfer films are the same. That’s because many of these films aren’t 100% polyurethane. Instead, the polyurethane based films are blends of polyurethane and vinyl. These blends are stiffer. Read more »
