Table Saw Safety

One of the most used and most versatile power tools is the table saw. It is also one of the most dangerous. Each year more than 40,000 table saw accidents occur.  Many of these accidents result in the loss of a limb. To prevent becoming a statistic, follow these rules: Read more »

Differences Between Stains and Dyes

Dyes and stains are both used to color wood. To the uninitiated masses both types of products are one in the same. For this reason, these terms are frequently used interchangeably albeit incorrectly.  While both dyes and stains are similar in appearance and intended use, the similarity ends there.   In fact, dyes and stains each […] Read more »

Using Chip Carving Knives in Letter Carving

You can use chip carving knives for more than just carving geometric designs in boxes, plates or furniture. These specialized knives are also great tools when used to carve incised letters. I have also used these knives for carving details in brittle wood prone to tear out. Read more »

Laminating Application Tape and HotMask™ Films

Stick It In Reverse How you apply an application tape to a vinyl graphic or a HotMask™ transfer tape to a printed heat transfer applique can affect the appearance of the finished product. If you get wrinkles or bubbles in the paper application tape, I can just about guarantee that you will get wrinkles and […] Read more »

Making the Most of Application Fluids

Using application fluids isn’t rocket science, but it’s not child’s play, either. Discover what you need to know to make the most of application fluids. Read more »

When Ink Is Not the Problem with Digital Printing, Part I

Variables like surface tension, media expansion and ink absorption take on new dimensions on larger substrates. If the paper doesn’t advance, it could cause blobs of ink or other ugly outcomes. If the media stretches even a little, you could get blurs. Tiling can become a challenge on larger prints. Read on to discover what […] Read more »

When Ink Is Not the Problem with Digital Printing, Part II

Beyond dust and dirt, several factors impact the ink’s ability to stick to the substrate. The carrier ­ aqueous-based or solvent-based ­ is another key factor in the final outcome. Then there’s calibration. Read more »

Storing Application Tape

Application tape manufacturers package their products in plastic sleeves, then box them in corrugated containers to protect the tape from light, dirt and humidity. If you’re not going to use the tape immediately, keep it in its box. Tape not stored in boxes is exposed to light, which can cause yellowing. Even shop lighting can […] Read more »

Tips on Carving Western Red Cedar

In the sign industry, Western Red Cedar sign blanks are a popular choice because this affordably-priced wood is dimensionally stable and resists insects and decay. As a substrate for exterior signage, cedar can provide up to thirty years outdoor durability. Its workability also makes Western Red Cedar an excellent choice for sign makers. Because it […] Read more »

United States Patent and Trademark Office Issues Patent for BannerPRO

Supply55, Inc. a leading provider of unique value added products to the sign, screen and graphic arts market has been issued a patent by the United States Patent and Trademark Office for BannerPRO.   Read more »