Premask Puckering on Screen Printed Graphics

A number of factors can cause puckering and tunneling of a premask or application tape laminated on a screen printed vinyl graphic. These factors fall into three broad categories: environment, material processing and product selection. Controlling your plant environment and your processing are certainly important. High humidity causes many tunneling and puckering issues.  When the...
http://bit.ly/1vxFl6v

The Effect of Clear Coating Matte Silver VinylEfx Film

Spraying  RTape Matte Silver VinylEfx® film with a clear coat will change its appearance from a matte finish to a satiny finish. The reason for the change is that this VinylEfx® pattern is textured on the first or outside surface of the film. Other VinylEfx® patterns are embossed on the second surface. When you spray...
http://bit.ly/1ryDFrV

Adhesion Testing

Testing the Bond of an Ink or Paint Whether you are screen printing or painting, the coating must bond to the substrate for the service life of the product.  Depending on the physical properties of the coating that you have selected for a project and the substrate to which the coating will be applied, the...
http://bit.ly/1ryskIm

Introducing Tatoo Printable Heat Transfer Films

RTape Corp. (South Plainfield, NJ) introduces its SEF Tatoo heat transfer film, which is a white, printable, multi-layer polyurethane construction on a polyester liner or carrier. Tatoo films are printable using a wide range of digital printers, including solvent, ecosolvent and latex systems. The brilliance of the facestock and its chemical formulation allow for vibrant...
http://bit.ly/1ryskrU

New Mexico Neon on Route 66

Sign makers are getting their kicks restoring vintage neon signs along New Mexico’s portion of Route 66. Brightly-lit sombreros and teepees are entertaining youngsters who are anxious to arrive at their destinations. And many other characters and critters that personify Route 66 are once again being lit up with pride. Ten signs along the New...
http://bit.ly/1p4ebOG

Why Photoluminescent Films Glow In The Dark

Have you ever wondered why photoluminescent films, such as RTape’s GlowEfx™, emit a bright greenish glow when the lights go out? The pigments in photoluminescent films as well as in fluorescent films work very differently than other types of pigments.    Most pigments reflect a part of the visible light that strikes it. What isn’t reflected...
http://bit.ly/ZqplqU

Water Size Recipe for Glass Gilding

In glass gilding, a water size is the glue that adheres gold leaf to the glass. Made of water-clear gelatin and distilled water, it is essential for creating a brilliant gold mirror finish.  Of course, you can also apply gold to glass with oil size, if you want areas of a design to have a...
http://bit.ly/ZqpjiX

Fire Extinguishers

When does one size or type of product ever fit every application? In the case of fire extinguishers, the answer is never. Different types of extinguishers are required for different types of fires. Companies are required to provide an adequate number of the right type of fire extinguishers and to ensure that this equipment is...
http://bit.ly/Zn7Sjh

Correcting Plotter Cutting Problems When Cutting Heat Transfer Films

Troubleshooting Checklist If you are having problems cutting polyurethane heat transfer films, check the following possible causes: Make sure that the blade is sharp. The number one reason cause of cutting problems is a dull blade. Change the blade as needed. Check to make sure that the blade isn t broken .Even a new blade can have...
http://bit.ly/X7Exrr

Marvelous Magnets Can Open Up New Revenues from Tradeshows to Vehicles

What do you get when you combine magnets with vinyl? Some marvelously magnetic creations that demand attention. Flexible magnets are opening new marketing doors for companies large and small. In fact, the possibilities are virtually as endless as your imagination. Indeed, sign shops that understand how to combine magnet sheeting with vinyl applications are finding...
http://bit.ly/1qxdLmG

Wrapping Vegas

The basic elements are the same with wraps of all sizes, but large mass transit wraps offer some additional challenges that offer valuable lessons from graphics installers of all shapes and sizes. What does it take to wrap a Las Vegas monorail inside and out? Final Film’s president shares what he has learned about metropolitan...
http://bit.ly/1wK0L34

Boat Wraps Boast Big Opportunity for Vinyl Installers

Wrapping boats may be the next big thing as the vehicle wrapping trend extends itself from the highways to the waterways. You re already wrapping cars, why not venture into the wonderful world of boat wrapping and expand your business? Vehicle wraps are so 2009. With many boats sitting on the sidelines during the winter months,...
http://bit.ly/1wK0L2U

The Difference between FlexCut Sticky and FlexCut Sweet

Both FlexCut Sticky and FlexCut Sweet are 100% polyurethane films. Other than that one similarity the two films are very different. Each product has its own unique performance properties. And these differences make one film a better choice for a specific application versus the other.  Still both films have their place in the product mix. And...
http://bit.ly/1p0GPik

Problems Transferring Graphics?

Are you having problems  with you application tape transferring all of the letters from the release liner? Here are a couple of suggestions: 1.  In applying the application tape, use either a 3M gold nylon squeegee or a Teflon squeegee. Softer plastic squeegees and felt squeegees do not have sufficient hardness to cause the adhesive...
http://bit.ly/1p0GMmA

Surface Prep for Glass Gilding

Proper prior preparation of a glass surface is absolutely critical to achieving good adhesion of the gold to the window. Contaminants on the glass could cause the gold leaf to flake off of the surface, if not immediately, than later down the road.  Experienced gilders will clean the surface of the glass several times before...
http://bit.ly/1AbRJdl

Which Films Stick to Coated Fabrics?

Just before the beginning of WWII, American chemists developed synthetic polyamides.  Polyamides are complex molecules called polymers, which are comprised of smaller “amide” monomers. In nature, these polyamide molecules occur as proteins in fibers, such as silk and wool. In the modern world, the best known polyamides are nylons.   Because of their strength, elasticity and...
http://bit.ly/1AbRIWZ

Carving a Green Man

What is a Green Man? Images of men emerging from vegetation have been a common artistic motif for more than two thousand years. Some scholars believe that the image of the “green man” is somehow linked to the ancient Dionysian fertility rituals and the natural process of rebirth, which occurs in Spring. But what do...
http://bit.ly/1ppB96q

How Calendered Vinyl Films are Made

I usually compare the calendering  process to rolling out pie dough. In reality, the manufacturing process is a little more complex than that. In the calendering process, PVC material is squeezed between gigantic, heated, polished-steel rollers that form the vinyl into a very thin sheet of film. A modern calendering line is also more expensive...
http://bit.ly/1rzbUip

How to Minimize Ghosting on Dry Erase Boards

Ghosting on dry erase boards is usually the rule, not the exception. If you want your dry erase board to look good years from now with minimal ghosting, you have to condition the surface, before you use it and you have to use the right markers.  I have used the RTape EZErase™ film on my...
http://bit.ly/1pMBEEW

System Inc. Takes Dominion on Powerboat Wrapping Industry

Feeling creative? The water sports industry is hungry for cutting-edge designs printed on vinyl and applied to powerboats that are ultimately seen by hundreds of thousand of people in competitions around the country. Discover how a Seattle-based company has found its niche wrapping boats for some of the most recognizable names in the sports equipment...
http://bit.ly/1pMlgEs

Vehicle Wrapping Contracts 101

Wrapping vehicles without a signed contract that spells out what the customer should expect and shouldn t expect from your sign shop is a mistake that could cost you. Find out how to avoid liabilities with a solid contract. Discover what you need to include in a vehicle wrapping contract to protect your company...
http://bit.ly/1zNEMaw

Wrapping Oil Rigs

A Texas sign shop is wrapping the big rigs ­ and we don’t mean trucks. Discover the ins and outs of wrapping in an oil field. Oil rigs present unique challenges for vinyl installers ­ in more ways than one. Find out what you need to know before pursuing this type of business. You’ve probably...
http://bit.ly/1zNt1km

How to Wrap a Red Hot Ferrari

Wrapping a Ferrari may sound like a sexy job and it is but it s unlike most other vehicle wraps. Find out how. Few cars are curvier than a Ferrari. Discover how to navigate the challenges of applying vinyl to a racecar. What do you get when you cross Avery Graphics film with a...
http://bit.ly/1jhQLIg

Processing and Installing VinylEfx Films

ABOUT VINYLEFX® FILMS Eye-catching RTape VinylEfx® metalized vinyl media give your designs a distinctive look, which attracts attention and creates favorable visual impressions. Your graphics are noticed, read and remembered. That’s your competitive edge! The rich look of these metallic vinyl films is perfect for  signage, POP, exhibits and store interiors. For design ideas, click...
http://bit.ly/U5HfMD

Cleaning Polycarbonate Sheet Before Vinyl Application

Polycarbonate is one tough plastic.  Not even Dirty Harry with his .44 magnum could blast through a one-inch sheet. To use Harry’s words: “a man has to know his limitations”. Even polycarbonate has limitations. As tough as this plastic is, it is not very solvent resistant. Exposure to some solvents can ultimately cause stress cracking...
http://bit.ly/U1Hcl0

Peel Recommendations for Heat Transfer Films

After you heat press an applique to a garment, how long should you wait before peeling the carrier or the hot mask from the applique?  A number of variables come into play, which are covered in my story: Heat Transfer Films: Hot, Warm or Cold Peel. The physical properties of the particular flex or flock film that...
http://bit.ly/U1HdW8

Gild like an Egyptian

Gilding is an ancient art that dates back to Egyptian times. Get some time-tested tips from modern-day pros.  Gilding with gold leaf is the ancient art Egyptians used to decorate King Tut’s coffin, but 21st century artisans are continuing the tradition on everything from automobiles to store windows.om modern-day pros. The techniques haven’t changed much...
http://bit.ly/U1yNxY

Application Tape Tips

Here are some helpful tips for working with application tape:  Whether you laminate application tape by hand or with a laminator, avoid trapping air bubbles between the vinyl graphics and the application tape.   Bubbles and wrinkles in the application paper often result in bubbles and wrinkles in the applied graphic, regardless of the skill and effort...
http://bit.ly/1mOdYkO

Illuminated Signs Help McGruff Take a Bite Out of Crime

The National Crime Prevention Council sanctions illuminated signs as a crime prevention tool. Find out how on-premise signs can help your business ­ and your community. Need a new angle to sell on-premise illuminated signs? Several studies that show lighted signs help reduce crime are good weapons in your sales arsenal. McGruff the Crime Dog...
http://bit.ly/1oilrrY

Reading, Writing and Profits With The School System Near You

You can position your company for profitability by serving the growing market for in-school advertising. When George Mason High School needed funds to install lights in its new football stadium, it looked for advertisers to foot the bill. Recognizing the opportunity, a local Cadillac dealer was quick to strike a $50,000, five-year naming rights agreement...
http://bit.ly/1sRxMsh

Comparing Heat Transfer Films with Screen Printed Graphics

A high quality polyurethane heat transfer film will outlast a screen printed garment hands down. In fact, if you properly process and care for a polyurethane heat transfer, the applique should last the life of the garment.  We all know what happens to a screen printed shirt after a dozen washes.  Plastisol inks crack. By...
http://bit.ly/1tF6akY

Banners Are Everywhere, but Professionals Want Vinyl That Pops!

Get rid of your humdrum banner designs and start creating vinyl banners that demand attention. Your customers will thank you.  We ve all seen them and probably wished we hadn t. You know those unsightly banners on buildings and in stores that only get your attention because they are so poorly designed. These banners are overloaded...
http://bit.ly/U9prkh

Stripping Vinyl Graphics Made Easy

Stripping vinyl graphics may never become a sign makers’ dream, but it does not have to be a nightmare, either.  Ask most sign makers about stripping vinyl graphics and they’ll cringe. Let’s face it. Stripping vinyl is not the most glamorous of tasks. “Stripping vinyl is the ugly side of our work,” said Frank Barbaria,...
http://bit.ly/U9kbx9

Cleaning Vinyl Graphics

Sign makers should assume that many of their customers will do some pretty stupid things when cleaning graphics. For this reason they must provide the end user with instruction covering proper cleaning and care of any graphics.  When I sold fleet graphics, many years ago, I would give my customers an instruction sheet which included the do s and don ts listed...
http://bit.ly/RyKzhI

Faux Finishes

My flight out of New Orleans wasn’t leaving for several hours.  Just a few miles from the airport, was the antebellum Destrehan plantation overlooking the mighty Mississippi River. So I had plenty of time to take the guided tour. Walking through the mansion, the marble mantles and sides of some of the fireplaces caught my...
http://bit.ly/1wgT6GG

What Causes Ink Adhesion Problems?

The $64 question is: what causes ink adhesion problems when screen printing polycarbonate film?  While some have suggested moisture absorption as the culprit, the most likely candidate is exposure  to UV light and oxygen.  As the polycarbonate absorbs UV light, it excites the photons of the atoms, which in turn creates free radicals. Free radicals...
http://bit.ly/1mAjm9U

Screen Printing on Polycarbonate

Painting is not the only solution for decorating plastic signfaces. For high-volume  jobs, screen printing is an economical solution. In selecting an ink system, ask your screen print supply distributor for a recommendation. The technical bulletin  will give you printing recommendations. The type of mesh, squeegee, stencil and thinners are a few of the variables...
http://bit.ly/1gI2LSe

Painting Polycarbonate Sheet

The extraordinary clarity of polycarbonate makes it an excellent substrate for backlit signs.  Generally, but not always, the sheet is sprayed on its second surface. Because the paint faces the inside of the sign cabinet, it is protected from the elements. Any painting done on the first surface of the sign face must be clear...
http://bit.ly/1lUUr0r

Mottling and what to do about it

Have you ever occasionally noticed a dull, hazy or blotchy appearance on the surface of some vinyl films or overlaminates? This is a condition called mottling.  There’s no reason to get too excited. While this hazy appearance certainly detracts from the aesthetic appeal of your graphics, mottling can easily be remedied, which I will explain...
http://bit.ly/RGCZ52

Hygroscopic Plastics

Outgassing: Problems Arising Out Of Thin Air Some plastics can absorb moisture from the air.  These materials fall into the category called “hygroscopic plastics”.  The best known product in this group is polycarbonate. It’s not, however, the only hygroscopic plastic. Nylon and polyester can also absorb water vapor. Water vapor isn’t the only substance that...
http://bit.ly/RGCZ4V

Vinyl Application to Polycarbonate Sheet

Even if polycarbonate sheet was covered with a surface protection film, you should always consider the surface contaminated. That means that you must clean the sign face before applying the graphics. Before you prep the substrate with a solvent or detergent, carefully read the manufacturer’s instructions. For most plastic-sheet applications, the most reliable cleaning method...
http://bit.ly/RGCW9s

The Importance of Fire Inspections

A Proactive Approach to Reducing the Risk of Fire The old saying, “forewarned is forearmed”, should remind us that conducting regular fire inspections is the best way to keep the incidence of fires low.  By identifying fire hazards in your shop, you can correct them before they cause a fire. In conducting your inspections, here...
http://bit.ly/QK6a6v

Surface Preparation of Unpainted Aluminum

How to Remove Oxidation on Aluminum Many years ago, some of the tankers and trailers had unpainted aluminum skins.  Direct application of pressure-sensitive vinyl graphics to these surfaces often resulted in adhesion failures. The cause of adhesion problems on aluminum is usually oxidation on the surface of the metal. Whether you are applying an emblem...
http://bit.ly/1stA8I8

C-C-Corrugations…Never Fear, Expert Advise is Here!

Applying vinyl over rivets is one thing. Applying vinyl over corrugation is quite another. But don’t let that stop you. If you can learn to apply vinyl over corrugation, then you can tap into the lucrative world of fleets. Corrugations are some of the most dreaded substrates over which to install vinyl. But check out...
http://bit.ly/1okHeOE

AP3155 UV Adhesion Promoter Demonstration Video

Stop by the Supply55 website at www.supply55.com/adhesion_promoters.html to view the AP3155 UV ink adhesion promoter demonstration video.  The video walks you through a crosshatch test demonstrating the improved durability of printed acrylic when using AP3155 in your workflow. Take control of your workflow today with AP3155 from Supply55. For more information please call Supply55 at 734-668-0755.
http://bit.ly/1kQ5N5t

Moving and Wrapping Around the World

Are wrapping techniques any different in London than they are in Los Angeles? Find out from one of the United Kingdom’s top vehicle wrapping companies. From the U.S. to the U.K. sign makers are making more than signs wrapping vehicles. They are making profits. Find out how to turn a vehicles into a rolling advertisements....
http://bit.ly/RhQFDC

A Megawrap with Flavor – vinyl installer wraps world’s largest beer can

Discover the challenges of wrapping a monumental can — and keeping it realistic from top to bottom. How would you go about wrapping a beer can so big that Paul Bunyan would have had to use two hands to slug it down? Impossible? Not according to Avery Dennison Graphics and the wide-format graphics designers at...
http://bit.ly/RhHxPo

Seamless Wraps 101 – Deciding when to go seamless and when not to

Discover how and when to do a seamless vehicle wrap. Seamless wraps demand careful planning and even then they can be a challenge. Find out how to approach a seamless wrap and when to consider a partial wrap instead. The seamless wrap. It s the Holy Grail of the vehicle wrapping industry. Some...
http://bit.ly/Rhz5je

The New American Sign Museum

A Dream Comes True With the opening of the new American Sign Museum (www.signmuseum.org) on June 23 this year, museum founder Tod Swormstedt achieved one of his dreams. As I walked past the brightly lit exhibits, I thought about what Napoleon Hill, author of Think and Grow Rich, had said: what a man can conceive of and...
http://bit.ly/1tVG6Fe

Heat Pressing on Dye Sublimated Fabrics

What is Dye Sublimation? Most polyester fabrics, such as many of the popular “Performance Garments”, are dyed using a sublimation process. The dye sublimation process uses high heat to permanently   fuse   the colorant   into a polyester fabric. Heat serves two critical functions in this dying process.  First, the heat causes the pores of the polyester fabric...
http://bit.ly/1nWrRfh

Heat Pressing Appliques on Leather

Back when Marlon Brando rode into Hollywood stardom in the Wild One (1953), the leather motorcycle jacket, adorned with a biker back patch, symbolized the country’s rugged iconoclastic spirit. Since the era of Brando, the popularity of real leather apparel has not diminished.  Little has also changed in how we embellish leather attire. Leather jackets and...
http://bit.ly/1nWgHqH

Reverse Painting on Glass

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...
http://bit.ly/1hvFXmH

Woodcarving Vise Swivels 360⁰

http://bit.ly/1gXrmwC

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...
http://bit.ly/1gXrmww

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...
http://supply55.com/blog/2014/04/solvents-and-fire-safety/

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...
http://supply55.com/blog/2014/04/painting-expanded-pvc-panels-2/

3-Step Prep for Vehicle Graphics

Whether you are installing trailer graphics or doing a full wrap of a car or van, surface preparation involves a three-step process of detergent washing, solvent cleaning and a final wipe down with IPA. Step 1. Vehicles should be washed the day before vinyl application with detergent and water. This should remove much of the...
http://supply55.com/blog/2014/03/3-step-prep-for-vehicle-graphics/

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. With...
http://supply55.com/blog/2014/03/toning-metal-leaf-with-liver-of-sulfur-2/

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...
http://supply55.com/blog/2014/03/shopping-for-a-heat-press-2/

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...
http://supply55.com/blog/2014/03/wrapping-the-fair/

E-Waste Plastic Sign Substrate

Waste Not, Want Not Adversity brings out the best and the worst in people.  In some parts of the country, the theft of aluminum signs has risen dramatically during this protracted recession. Is it any surprise? With rising raw material costs, aluminum is valuable as scrap. To thwart criminals, traffic sign manufacturers are replacing aluminum...
http://supply55.com/blog/2014/03/e-waste-plastic-sign-substrate-5/

Getting Ready to Wrap a Boat?

Wrapping boats isn t rocket science-and you can learn a lot from your vehicle wrapping endeavors-but installing vinyl on a boat is different than applying vinyl to a vehicle. Find out why. Before you set out to apply vinyl to a boat, be sure you have all your templates, materials and tools in a row. So...
http://supply55.com/blog/2014/03/getting-ready-to-wrap-a-boat/

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...
http://supply55.com/blog/2014/03/on-premise-commercial-signage-curbs-traffic-accidents/

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...
http://supply55.com/blog/2014/03/back-to-school-sign-makers-seek-cnc-router-education/

Removing Rock Hard Tape Adhesive

 Application Tape Tip Every so often, I get a service call involving a sign maker or painter, who cannot remove the adhesive of our application tape from a substrate. I just receive one yesterday from a woman in southern California, who had left masked painted panels in the sun. The panels became so hot that...
http://supply55.com/blog/2014/03/removing-rock-hard-tape-adhesive-2/

Difficult to Transfer Vinyl Graphics

Pick Up Tips Who hasn’t had the occasional problem in transferring vinyl graphics from its release liner? In many cases, the solution may be as simple as selecting a higher tack tape, or making a slight change in your application procedure. Here are a few pick up tips to make transferring vinyl a more uplifting...
http://supply55.com/blog/2014/03/difficult-to-transfer-vinyl-graphics-2/

Priming and Painting for Wall Graphics Applications

Drywall Preparation, Priming and Painting In my story, Preventing Wall Graphics Failures, I mentioned that new drywall must be primed and painted properly to ensure good adhesion of pressure-sensitive vinyl wall graphics. You wouldn’t think that applying vinyl wall graphics to newly painted drywall should be a problem.  Of course, problems can and do happen. Especially when...
http://supply55.com/blog/2014/03/priming-and-painting-for-wall-graphics-applications/

Printing Claritex® Top-Coated Polycarbonate Films

Tips for Digitally Printing & Laminating Top-Coated  Polycarbonate Films  RTape’s Claritex® 10 mil bright white velvet-matte polycarbonate films feature a specially formulated ink-receptive coating for solvent, ecosolvent and latex inkjet printers. The good hold out characteristic of the top coating keeps the colorant of the ink on its surface for brilliant color reproduction. The coating...
http://supply55.com/blog/2014/02/printing-claritex-top-coated-polycarbonate-films/

Painting Flames

And Other Uses for Application Tape. Protecting and transferring vinyl graphics aren’t the only uses for application tape.  Here are some other uses for paper application tapes. 1.      High tack application tapes, such as RTape 4075, are also used by painters and artists as a paint mask for custom painting of motor cycles, cars and trucks. ...
http://supply55.com/blog/2014/02/painting-flames-3/

Supply55 Expands Product Offering with the Addition of UV Adhesion Promoters

Ann Arbor, Michigan, February 26, 2014 – Supply55, Inc. a leading provider of unique value added products to the sign, screen and graphic arts market is pleased to announce the release of AP2155TM and AP3155TM adhesion promoters for use with UV printers. AP2155TM is an adhesion promoter, anti-static and cleaner for use with UV and...
http://supply55.com/blog/2014/02/supply55-expands-product-offering-with-the-addition-of-uv-adhesion-promoters/

Choosing the Best Ink to Print on Vinyl

Some digital print shops stick to the ink their printer manufacturer offers. But that might not always be the best choice for your vinyl print job. Your overarching goal is to match your ink to your media. Find out what you need to know. There are enough ink options on the market to make your...
http://supply55.com/blog/2014/02/choosing-the-best-ink-to-print-on-vinyl/

Blasting Your Way to Profits with Glass Etching

Blasting glass can help boost your bottom line. Find out how sandblasting glass is the same ­ and different ­ from other substrates. Can you sandblast with the best of them? If you’ve got the equipment and the skill to blast stone, ceramic or wood, then there’s no reason not to consider expanding your business...
http://supply55.com/blog/2014/02/blasting-your-way-to-profits-with-glass-etching/

Applying Vinyl Over Curves, Body Creases and Molding

Installing graphics on vehicles ­ or wrapping entire vehicles for that matter ­ presents some unique challenges rarely encountered on other substrates. Find out how to get around these difficult issues. Need some practical tips, tricks and techniques for applying vinyl over curves, molding and body creases? Read on for information that will add to...
http://supply55.com/blog/2014/02/applying-vinyl-over-curves-body-creases-and-molding/

Take Me Out to the Ball Game

Cincinnati’s Great American Ballpark offers proof positive that effective sign design can inform, entertain, commemorate ­ and stand out in a crowd. Signs speak volumes. But signs in hustling bustling environments often speak too much, too loud, or perhaps even too subtlety to communicate the message. Let’s face it. Poorly designed signs breed a sense...
http://supply55.com/blog/2014/02/take-me-out-to-the-ball-game/

Applying Vinyl Graphics to Aircraft

Are you ready to let your business fly high? Applying vinyl graphics to aircraft may be your next big opportunity. There are opportunities to apply vinyl to aircraft, but it takes special materials and a steady hand to get into the business. Have you ever seen those massive logos on the tails of airplanes, or...
http://supply55.com/blog/2014/02/applying-vinyl-graphics-to-aircraft/

When to Use Wet

While most professionals and manufacturers prefer to install vinyl dry, there are occasions when wet is the way to go. While it’s true that the dry installation method of vinyl application saves time and money, let’s face it, not every graphic installer has the necessary skills or experience. The wet application method applies a vinyl...
http://supply55.com/blog/2014/02/when-to-use-wet-2/

The Challenges of Creating Architectural Signage

Understanding the common pitfalls of creating indoor and outdoor architectural signage before you begin can save headaches for you and your customers. Your clients depend on architectural signage to do more than communicate a message. Architectural signage must also help build the brand name of the company it serves. That makes architectural signage one of...
http://supply55.com/blog/2014/02/the-challenges-of-creating-architectural-signage-2/

Soaring Profits from Glistening Gateways

Airports are bustling with opportunities as architects bring sign builders into the design process to capitalize on 21st century trends. From wayfinding and security symbols to retail and promotional signage, modern airports are adopting new strategies and it’s paying dividends for sign builders. Success begins with understanding the latest trends in airport signage and identifying...
http://supply55.com/blog/2014/02/soaring-profits-from-glistening-gateways/

Processing Printable Heat Transfer Films

If you have a solvent, ecosolvent or latex inkjet printer, you can decorate t-shirts, jackets and jerseys with colorful graphics and corporate logos using RTape Tatoo™, printable polyurethane heat transfer films.  Selling printed appliques to your existing customer base is a great way to increase your shop’s sales at high profit margins without a lot...
http://supply55.com/blog/2014/02/processing-printable-heat-transfer-films-2/

Heat Transfer Films: Hot, Warm or Cold Peel

After you heat press an applique to a garment, how long should you wait before peeling the carrier or the hot mask from the applique?  A number of variables come into play. The answer depends in part on the physical properties of the hot melt adhesive and the type of carrier used on the heat transfer...
http://supply55.com/blog/2014/02/heat-transfer-films-hot-warm-or-cold-peel/

Removing Rock Hard Tape Adhesive

 Application Tape Tip Every so often, I get a service call involving a sign maker or painter, who cannot remove the adhesive of our application tape from a substrate. I just receive one yesterday from a woman in southern California, who had left masked painted panels in the sun. The panels became so hot that...
http://supply55.com/blog/2014/02/removing-rock-hard-tape-adhesive/

The New Guardian Calender Video is Live

The new Guardian Calender overview video is live at http://supply55.com/calender.html. Another awesome project completed by the Supply55 design team! Check it out. 
http://supply55.com/blog/2014/02/the-new-guardian-calender-video-is-live/

Maintaining Color Quality & Uniformity

A Horse Of A Different Color A customer had encountered a problem whenever she printed grey.  When the prints were viewed inside, the color was dead on.  But viewed outside, in the sun the grey immediately turned green. The other day she printed a beautiful grey horse and laminated it. As soon as the print...
http://supply55.com/blog/2014/02/maintaining-color-quality-uniformity-2/

How to Apply Vinyl Graphics Over Rivets

Applying vinyl graphics on vehicle surfaces with rivets is challenging for most sign makers. Vinyl failures to these surfaces are all too common. Here are some tips and procedures, used by professional decal installers, which will make these demanding applications easier and more trouble-free. 1. Choose a film with a repositionable adhesive. In the summertime,...
http://supply55.com/blog/2014/02/how-to-apply-vinyl-graphics-over-rivets-2/

Laminating Tips: Silvering

Have you ever seen silvery specs in a laminated print? This defect is called silvering. It’s caused when tiny air bubbles are captured between the adhesive on an overlaminating film and the surface of a print. Silvering is generally most noticeable in the dark shadow areas of a print. Silvering frequently occurs when laminating UV-curable...
http://supply55.com/blog/2014/01/laminating-tips-silvering/

Laminating Tips

There’s usually more than one way to do something.  Printers and sign makers have devised many different techniques for laminating prints. This story covers procedures that have worked for some industry friends. Hopefully, these tips will help you prevent laminating mishaps, save production time and, most importantly, improve profitability. 
http://supply55.com/blog/2014/01/laminating-tips/

Superior Solvent Ink™ Nominated in Wide-Format Imaging’s 2014 Readers Choice Top Products Awards

Supply55, Inc. a leading provider of unique value added products to the sign, screen and graphic arts market is pleased to announce Superior Solvent Ink has been nominated in Wide-Format Imaging’s 2014 Readers Choice Top Products Awards. Superior Solvent Ink has been engineered to match the performance, color gamut and chemistry of Mimaki OEM inks....
http://supply55.com/blog/2014/01/superior-solvent-ink-nominated-in-wide-format-imagings-2014-readers-choice-top-products-awards/

Dealing with the “R” Word…Rivets

Learn the time-tested techniques of how to properly apply vinyl over rivets. Discover a five-step process that will help you deal with these annoying, yet necessary fasteners. Wouldn t life be easier without rivets? Maybe for the vinyl installer. But let’s face it. Rivets are not going away. Learn some tips and tricks from the pros and...
http://supply55.com/blog/2014/01/dealing-with-the-r-word-rivets/

Imaged Fabric Adds a Touch of Class to Hum Drum Displays

Fabric is findings its place in the trade show arena and beyond. Discover how this flexible, portable material fits into your business plan. Type the words “fabric banner” into your favorite Internet search engine and you’ll find more than 2 million results. That’s because fabric signage is one of the hottest trends in the industry...
http://supply55.com/blog/2014/01/imaged-fabric-adds-a-touch-of-class-to-hum-drum-displays/

DuPont Surface Cleaners

In the movie, Karate Kid, do you remember the instruction that Mr. Miyagi gives Daniel on waxing a car?“Wax on, right hand. Wax off, left hand. Wax on, wax off.  Don t forget…very important.” In the vinyl graphics business, the right hand, left hand technique is the traditional way decal installers are taught to clean with a solvent...
http://supply55.com/blog/2014/01/dupont-surface-cleaners/

Searching for the Best Solvents

One solvent ink does not fit all outdoor printers. Find out the pros and cons of lite, full and eco-solvent inks. Quality ink is critical to your finished products. Sign shops need to explore all the ink options before choosing compatible printer technology. So you are venturing into digital printing… Well, there is no lack...
http://supply55.com/blog/2014/01/searching-for-the-best-solvents/