The "making of" a vinyl graphic explained by Lettrage Scripsit Inc.

Digitalization and vectorizing

When we scan an image, it is recorded in a pixel format file.

Pixels = BMP, TIF, GIF, JPG, PCX, PSD, MAC, PCD and others.

For cutting, the image must be in lines (contour) which are called vectors.

Vectors = EPS, AI, CDR, DXF, CMX and some others.

Changing an image from the pixel format to a vector format means that contours of each line, including its thickness, must be defined. Part of this work can be done by software. However, we must "clean" these drawings manually to make them accurate for cutting. It is work that requires a high degree of accuracy and a lot patience. A drawing in vectors can be scaled up to practically any size without losing definition.


Design
This is the stage that requires important decisions. Giving the message maximum impact without over powering it by its graphics.
choice of materials and their dimension adhering to the pre-established constraints i.e. keeping the design in proportion choice of fonts, images and colors positioning of elements in the preset format relationship between the elements of the composition
The logo is now vectorized, we have the text, it's time to transmit the message.
	Functional ..easy to read and decode
	Appearence.elements are balanced.
	Clarity .......no useless visual overload..
	Effective the composition draws attention.

The choice of vinyls

Several types of vinyls are available for cutting.

The "cast" type and most reflective vinyls are especially manufactured for a long life external use (5-7 years) without shrinking, cracking or fading.

The "calendered" vinyl is for a less intensive use or a shorter period (3-5 years).

The polyester, holographic and fluorescent vinyls are reserved exclusively for interior use, or 3 to 12 months for outside but they will fade.

It is important to choose the correct vinyl for the job requirement.

Cutting

When the artwork is complete and accepted the file is sent to a cutting machine which recognizes the "X" and "Y"coordinates of the various graphics comprising the image.

A swivelling blade cuts the contour of the letters and other shapes.

The blade must be set to cut only the thin layer of self-adhesive vinyl without affecting the silicone liner on which backs it.

Weeding

Following cutting we remove the useless parts of the graphic and save only the letters and symbols. This work is done by hand, small lettering takes longer to weed than large letters. After weeding the artwork, we carefully apply a transfer tape to the face of the vinyl graphics to protect them and to allow the application of every element in one piece. We mark guide lines and the centers of graphics on the transfer tape.

Preparation of surface

The surface on which the vinyl is applied must be clean, dry and relatively smooth.

Various products (grease removers, alcohol, lacquer thinner, etc., dependent on the surface) are used to clean the surface of wax, grease, oil or silicone. A final rinsing with water is recommended to neutralize certain products.

Application

A special pencil, easily erasable, is used to mark measurements on the well prepared surface. It is then necessary to separate the graphics from the silicone liner, keeping only the sticky parts on the transfer tape.

Stick the whole graphic taking care to not create bubbles and then activate the adhesive by pressure using a plastic blade squeegee.

(ex: hinge method of application) Carefully align the guide-lines on the transfer paper with those traced on the substrate, place tape across the graphic to hold it in place. Carefully remove the silicone liner. Hold the graphic at a right angle to the surface to which it is to be applied and begin pushing the graphic onto the substrate surface with a plastic blade squeegee, with short even strokes. Bubbles are created when air is trapped under the vinyl surface. To minimize bubbles, take care that the sticky side of the vinyl does not come into contact with the substrate surface until the squeegee has forced the contact. In humid weather it is not uncommon to get bubbles, despite all precautions. Most, if not all, should evaporate within a week or so..

Remove transfer tape by folding it up on itself at a 180º angle to avoid stressing the vinyl. The transfer tape adhesive is less aggressive than that on the vinyl, which allows the graphs to remain on the substrate.

The vinyl must be heated and pressed up to 3 times to conform to surfaces that have rivets or to mould it over curves.

Special thanks to Dave Grundy, Kelli Cajigas
& Rob Ivers for their tips and translation help.

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