Painting a scene is a challenge for most people. Now, imagine painting everything in reverse. It can be mind-boggling. As I struggled with the learning curve, I soon realized that I needed help. I was fortunate to have some veteran sign painters coach me through the process of reverse painting on glass. If you are up for […] Read more »
Thermal Transfer Printing on VinylEfx® Films
One unique characteristic of our VinylEfx® product is the deep embossing, which creates the 3D illusion in patterns, such as MultiLens® and Diamond Plate™. Deeply embossed patterns, however, can cause problems, when printing with thermal transfer systems, such as the Gerber Edge®. Printing on films, which are not perfectly smooth, can result in flaking, in […] Read more »
Woodcarving Vise Swivels 360⁰
A good vise and an assortment of clamps are essential tools for woodworkers. Sometimes when you are carving, you need to secure the piece in an upright position, especially if you are working in the round. When I saw the woodcarving vise that swivels (pictured), I had to have it. The vise rotates 360⁰, […] Read more »
Solvents and Fire Safety
Fire is undiscriminating. It can flare up at any time. And can happen to anyone. After finishing a vinyl graphics application job, a former colleague and mentor had loaded the back seat of his car with rags which had been soaked in solvent for cleaning, before heading down the road. As John drove, he attempted […] Read more »
Painting Expanded PVC Panels
For less demanding applications expanded PVC (EPVC) board is a good alternative for short-term outdoor signage, indoor retail signage, P.O.P displays, tradeshow and museum exhibits and for mounting photographs and digital prints. Some of the popular brands that are stocked by sign supply distributors are Sintra®, Celtec, Komatex and Veracel. Available in different densities and finishes and in […] Read more »
Toning Metal Leaf with Liver of Sulfur
Exposed to the elements, many metals oxidize. When they do, they change colors. Copper and bronze will sometimes develop an attractive verdigris of green. As they weather, metals will also darken, turning their brassy colors to antique hues of brown. The term most frequently used for the weatherworn coloration that metals develop is patina. Read more »
Shopping for a Heat Press
With so many makes and models of heat presses, selecting one is usually confusing. To make the right purchasing decision for your business, you need to thoroughly investigate your options. Start by asking the right questions. Here’s what you should know before you sign on the dotted line. The most important question revolves around your projections […] Read more »
Wrapping the Fair
If you think wrapping mega slides is the same as wrapping cars, think again. Discover how to navigate the challenges that could spell opportunity for you. Wrapping rides at fair grounds spells opportunity for one vehicle wrap company after the learning curve. There are megawraps and then there are megawraps. Wrapping rides at the […] Read more »
On-Premise Commercial Signage Curbs Traffic Accidents
Government research proves that signage helps drivers navigate unfamiliar roadways. Learn how to boost business while maintaining driver safety. Need some help selling on-premise signage? Appeal to your customer’s community loyalty with research that demonstrates signage helps curb traffic accidents. You’re on your way to that new Italian restaurant that everyone is raving about. You […] Read more »
Back to School: Sign Makers Seek CNC Router Education
Are you ready for prime time? Learn about educational programs that teach you the ins and outs of computerized routers. As dimensional signs gain momentum, many sign makers are seeking formal education to help them get the biggest bang for their routing bucks. So you’ve made a major investment in a CNC router. You went […] Read more »
