CET Films, a division of Nekoosa Coated Products, has introduced Clariguard™, a laser engravable polycarbonatefilm. The new CET film provides a cost effective solution for producing tamper-proof security-sensitive documents. 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 »
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 »
Spray Painting Safety
If you are spray painting or airbrushing an enamel, a dust mask will not provide you with adequate protection. Prolonged exposure to the chemicals in paints can make you sick and eventually could kill you. Read more »
How to Sell Your Airbrushed Vinyl
Butch ‘Superfrog’ Anton shares his secrets of his success in selling airbrushed vinyl. Hint: it’s a three-tiered pricing approach. Read on to learn more. It’s time to get a return on the time and money you’ve invested into becoming an expert at airbrushing on vinyl. Learn how to generate a buzz and close the sale […] 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 »
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 »
Power Carving with Flexible Shaft Tools
Flexible shaft carving systems are not a necessity for woodcarving, but they sure are nice to have for several reasons. Carving with gouges or knives is generally a slow, thoughtful process. To save time I often will use my high speed flexible shaft tool to rough out a carving. With a coarse carbide burr you […] Read more »
