When decorating acrylic sheet, selecting the right vinyl film for the job depends on a variety of factors: Read more »
Gold Leaf: To Clear or Not To Clear
Most gilders agree that for most sign applications, you should not clear coat 23-karat gold leaf. What differentiates gold from other metals is its brilliance. Clear coating diminishes its shiny surface. But as with all rules, there are exceptions. If it is likely that the general public will put their grubby mitts on the gilded surface, […] Read more »
Traditional Water Gilding
While you might have experience in oil gilding exterior signage or water gilding on glass, you may never have attempted traditional water gilding, or what is also called bole gilding. This technique is used for interior applications, primarily gilding wood picture frames. The process involves coating the wood with several layers of gesso and clay […] Read more »
Seaming Vinyl Banners: Calling on the Chemical Weld, RF & Heat Methods
Chemical welding is an inexpensive way to seam banners and it’s longer lasting than banner tape. But there’s also something to be said for RF and heat welding processes that last much longer than brush-on solutions. Read more »
How to Dome Vinyl Graphics
Because metalized vinyls exude an opulent aura, these eye-catching films are a popular choice in the design and manufacture of OEM emblems and trim. What’s more, their attractive and luxurious appeal complements the appearance of high-ticket products, such as RV vehicles and marine craft. Read more »
Testing for Outgassing
Outgassing refers to the release of a gas from some type of material. Natural materials, such as plywood, can outgas vapors as the glues used in its manufacturing cure. Just about any synthetic substance will outgas, too. The list of synthetic materials includes paint, polycarbonate and fiberglass. Read more »
Sign Media & Floor Graphics
In Sign Media Canada , Jodie Sawyer of Flexcon writes: “Floor graphics have been used in the retail sector for years to help shoppers find products on shelves or to direct their attention to special merchandising promotions. Studies have shown they typically result in a seven to 16 per cent sales lift. Read more »
Caring for your Brushes
Your investment in quality lettering and pinstriping brushes can easily amount to hundreds of dollars. To protect your investment, you must properly care for your brushes. Read more »
Using SuperFrog’s Frog Juice
For years I have recommended edge sealing the RTape VinylEfx® films with SuperFrog’s Frog Juice, which is an acrylic enamel automotive grade clear coat. While it is great for protecting vinyl graphics, you can also use it for other applications, such as clear coating digital prints and even gold leaf. Read more »
Tips on Buying a Digital Printer
When you are buying any digital printer, here are some things that you should consider, especially if you are a first time buyer: Anything mechanical can breakdown. What reputation does the manufacturer have for building reliable equipment? In the event of a problem, what service and technical support does the manufacturer provide? Read more »
