Product news and information for the sign, screen and graphic arts trade
734-668-0755
In the sign industry one of the most widely used epoxy resins is the West System Epoxy. Because of its versatility and durability, old school sign makers frequently select this product for projects.
The West System is comprised of three components: the 105 epoxy resin, a hardener and a filler. Depending on which hardener and filler you select, you can use it to as an adhesive, or as a clear coat or for laminating fiberglass or to repair damage to a surface.
Read more »
For interior applications, a FR grade of banner substrate is often required to comply with state and local fire codes. I was taught that FR is an Underwriter’s Laboratories (UL) classification, which stands for flame retardant. However, I have heard many people say that the FR is an acronym for “Fire Resistant” and “Flame Resistant”. Read more »
Whether you buy a $29 bargain brand or a heavy-duty unit which costs significantly more, most angle grinders operate between 9,000 rpm and 11,000 rpm. That type of power is impressive. It can rip through wood and slice steel. However, if the cutting disc catches on something and kicks back on you, it can also […] Read more »
Jim Hingst explains how extreme heat can cause the PVC resin of a vinyl film to break down. Read more »
Artists and sign makers have used Damar Varnish for various applications, including encaustic wax painting, varnishing oil paintings and glass gilding. In this story, Jim Hingst provides a Damar Varnish recipe and explains how to use it. Read more »
Dating back to the days of the pharaohs, 5000 years ago, men have hammered strips of gold into thin sheets of gold leaf in a manufacturing process known as gold beating. While the tools have changed through the centuries, the basic process remains the same. In the days of the ancient Egyptians, gold beaters used stones. […] Read more »
When someone mentions fresco painting, what always comes to my mind is Michelangelo painting in the Sistine Chapel on wet plaster. Of course, that’s not the only type of fresco painting, but it is arguably the purest and the most durable form. Read more »
Artists have use gouache since the Middle Ages. This story explains the difference between gouache and watercolor painting. Painting techniques are also described. Read more »
If you are repainting a wood surface, your first chore is to prep the surface. New paint will not stick to dirt or peeling paint. On large surfaces the quickest way to clean the old wood painted surface is to pressure wash it. You will need to use a washer that can generate at least 2500 […] Read more »
As a paint additive, mediums serve several different functions in oil painting. Adding a medium to paint can extend its volume as well as extending its drying time. Read more »
