Discover the pros and cons of buying ink in large quantities. Want to save money on your ink budget? Barring using third-party inks, you have two options: buy in bulk or install a bulk ink system. Read more »
Safety and Latex Paints
In my articles on wall graphics I make a few recommendations on painting with latex paint. What I did not do was make any recommendations regarding safety. Who would think that there are any health concerns when painting walls with latex paint? I never did. After all, latex paint is water-based and that’s safe, isn’t […] Read more »
Dimples in Paper Application Tape
Dimples on a person’s face are usually regarded as being attractive and desirable. But dimples on the surface of paper application tape…not so much! In fact, dimples in the application tape are aesthetically unappealing. In most cases, however, a little dimpling does not mean the roll is bad and can’t be used. Generally, sign makers can […] Read more »
Application of Vinyl Graphics to Acrylic Signs
When decorating acrylic sheet, selecting the right vinyl film for the job depends on a variety of factors: 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 »
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 »
