Applying simple vinyl graphics processes and methods Dry application is mostly always used for applying vinyl graphics. However, there are some exceptions, where it may be easier to apply ‘wet’. This can be due to inexperienced applicators, high tack surfaces like glass or acrylic or applying paint protection films to vehicles. Vinyl should be applied …
Differences between cast and calendered vinyl film Understanding the difference between cast and calendered vinyl helps a sign maker choose which would be best for the job at hand: will it be indoor or outdoor, will it be applied to a flat or curved surface, will it be used for long term signage or short …
Lightbox fabrication Lightboxes are used for illuminating graphic displays/adverts, logos and business signs, etc. They can be made for indoors or outdoors, permanent or temporary signage. Some light boxes allow for easy replacement of graphic images. Through fabrication, custom shaped light boxes can be created outside of the standard square & rectangle displays. Some light …
3 Dimensional letters fabricated, logos and graphics 3 dimensional letters signs – also known as architectural lettering, 3-D or three dimensional lettering. This type of lettering has a raised dimensional look giving lettering and/or graphics a depth that can’t be achieved with standard cut vinyl surface lettering or printed. 3D letter signs have many fabrication …
Common materials used in signage Signage can be created using a wide range of materials that all deliver different effects. Here’s a list of common materials Corflute – is an effective and durable ribbed plastic material that is available in a variety of sizes and thicknesses and can be printed in full colour and/or vinyl …
Examples of common processes for fabrication / sign manufacture and production Fabrication meaning: the action or process of manufacturing or inventing something – the fabrication and assembly of signs. Common production processes to produce signs and fabricate sign parts Cutting (cuts through) and Routing is more like grinding than cutting CNC Cutting and Routing – computer based …
Common file formats used in the sign industry Below is an example of the requirements for an actual sign business. This may vary a little from sign shop to sign shop, depending on their software and equipment. Each sign shop will have specific requirements for their customers to supply files – or for people within …
Image resolution for print As we’ve seen in previous lessons, raster images are made of individual pixels. Image resolution is the amount of pixels in each ‘inch’ of an image. The term applies to raster digital images and film images. Higher resolution (a higher pixel count per inch), means more image detail and sharpness. Pixels per …
CMYK and RGB colour modes? CMYK and RGB are the two colour modes we need to be aware of for printing graphics and text in signage. All software used for designing signs, gives you the option to select various colour modes based on the output of the file (screen or print). We’ll be focussing on …
Intro to colour Colour conveys messages and can create a sense of emotion or mood and can attract attention. The mood can vary depending on different colour combinations. In signage colour can be used to grab attention, create contrast and evoke a feeling / emotion to reflect the image of a brand / product / …
Common typeface categories There are four main font categories: serif, sans serif, script, decorative.Type classification or type categories is a system used to divide typefaces into categories. This is useful for several reasons: to help identify them historically to match a clients brand to distinguish them visually, and to assist in combining them. Most typefaces fall …
Type personality Any sign project where the use of words is needed, will involve the art of playing around with type to create the intended effect. The font choices made during the early planning phases will establish the tone for how a sign is perceived. Type has meaning not just through words! Fonts go beyond …
Welcome to Signee Pre-vocational online! The online learning component of the Signee programme is for you to either; learn new content that is not covered during work experience or your workbook and to support some aspects of your work experience. Don’t forget your workbook as valuable resource! The six pillars of sign making Some …
Council ByLaws for signage The rules around the placement of signs can be complex and various permissions and permits may be necessary. Each council has their own regulations and Bylaws relating to their region. Council Bylaws require permission to install signage where there may be disruption to pedestrians, traffic and events and health and safety …
Common ‘wall’ mounting options for installation There are many ways to install signs/letters. Below are some common mounting types for walls. Common mounting types for – cut letters and other types of signs Stud mounting – the most common and sturdy option available for most materials. On thicker letters, holes are drilled into the back …
Common mounting options for wall mounted signage Read More »
Height access equipment – what are they? There are times when a sign needs to be installed at height. In the majority of cases, ladders, scaffolds and trestles will be fit for the install. For larger jobs or tricky access situations, scaffolding erectors, cherry-pickers, scissor/boom lifts and cranes are needed. Temporary work platforms (TWP) Temporary …
Channel letter fabrication Channel letters are custom-made # dimensional metal or plastic letters commonly used in exterior and interior signage. What’s called a ‘standard’ channel letter is the most common and has face lit illumination. Not all channel letters are illuminated. Types of channel letters (also includes logos, numbers, etc) Standard channel letter Aluminium Acrylic Stainless …
Freestanding dimensional signage Three-dimensional signage (sometimes called 3D signage or architectural signs) has depth, width and height. A dimensional design will eventually be cut, fabricated, cast, moulded, blasted, or extruded into a 3-dimensional product. Pole and Pylon signs Pylon signs and outdoor pole signs, signs are commonly used for shopping malls, petrol stations and road-side …
Traditional signwriting craft The skillset of the traditional sign writer is wide-ranging and encompasses numerous related specialisms which may be perfected with regular practise. Often defined as someone who draws and paints lettering and graphics at any size on any surface. In reality a traditional signwriter is likely to incorporate many other disciplines to some …
Types of vinyl films and their storage and care There are many different types of vinyl used in the sign industry and have their different uses for different jobs. We all know that it’s important to have the right material for the job and in order to have the material in good condition, it’s also …