Digital Print Media News

When installing vinyl graphics on a window, the wet method is a useful way to promote longevity. Knowing this method, you can easily add window graphics to the outside of your space and keep them looking great.

Wet Method Installation Tools

To start with, you will need the right number of people to install the graphic! This is not a job for one person. It is best if you have another set of hands for accuracy and assistance.

Masking tape is another important tool. Other types of tape, including transparent tape, can damage the vinyl. Masking tape is ideal as it allows for transfer without damage.

A squeegee, glass cleaner, and paper towels ensure that your installation surface is in the best condition possible. A tape measure assists with exact positioning.

Using the Wet Installation Method

The first step in this installation method sets the stage for a successful graphic transfer. Use the glass cleaner to create a spotless surface. Let it dry thoroughly, and be aware of the temperature and humidity for best results. You want a warm environment, over 65F, with low humidity.

Use your tape measure to find the center point where you want the vinyl graphic to lay. When it is marked, pull back an inch of your graphic’s paper backing, and fold it down. Place the graphic adhesive side down onto the window. Use your squeegee to smooth it over, without removing the additional backing. Use the masking tape to hold this area down once you are done with the squeegee.

Your installation partner should then lift the decal away from the window, while you remove the additional backing. Work in six-inch increments, ensuring your graphic adheres to the window with the tape. Spray the decal with water as your assistant lifts it away.

Your partner should then lay the decal onto the window. Peel your backing as you squeegee, top to bottom, six inches at a time. When the decal is completely applied, squeegee it again from the middle to the edges. A paper towel over the decal helps avoid scratching.

Take off the tape and squeegee that area. Finally, wipe down the decal with your paper towel. Squeegee any remaining air bubbles away.

Installation on Other Surfaces

The wet method also allows for vinyl graphic installation on places like vehicles, walls, and doors. You do not need to spray the decal with water in this instance.

With forethought, preparation, and patience, you can install vinyl window decals like a pro.

HP Latex printers are perfect for high-quality printing applications. They work rapidly, efficiently, and cost-effectively. When you need durable prints for indoor or outdoor uses, Latex is a great choice!

So what are key differences and similarities between these two 64″ printers from the HP Latex 300 Series? Let’s compare the HP Latex 335 and the HP Latex 365:

Key Differences:

• L365 Print Speed: up to 978 sq ft/hr vs L335 Print Speed: up to 538 sq ft/hr
• 8in Touch Screen on the L365 vs 4in Display on the L335
• The L365 comes with ink collector for printing fabric
• The L365 comes with the i1 spectrophotometer and allows custom substrate profiling
• The HP Latex 335 comes with SAi FlexiPrint HP Basic Edition RIP. The L365 does not come with RIP software but can be purchased separately
• The L335 is offered in a print & cut bundle

Key Similarities:

• Both are 64″ wide printers
• Both are designed to handle larger, heavier media rolls
• Takeup reel is included with both printers
• Automatic X-axis cutter standard on both machines
• As with all HP Latex Printers, prints are instantly dry, ready to laminate. Printing is also orderless and do not require additional ventilation, unlike solvent and eco-solvent printers. Latex inks are also ultra durable and scratch resistant, ideal for outdoor graphics such as vehicle wraps

HP Latex 335

The Latex 335 printer is affordable and versatile. Sized 64 inches wide, it has the ability to handle large and heavy media rolls. A take-up reel and automatic X-axis cutter improve functionality as well.

When you print with the L335, you will get fast speeds, and, better yet, a completely dry print when it emerges. This is great for meeting deadlines!

The L335 comes with SAi FlexiPrint HP Basic Edition RIP. This lets you use the design-to-print workflow. You can send jobs from your design application to the print queue, or drag and drop. The L335 comes in a print and cut bundle so you can complete your job faster and more accurately.

HP Latex 365

The Latex 365 is also 64 inches wide, and able to handle large and heavy media rolls. It too is equipped with a take-up reel and automatic X-axis cutter. Front to back registration lets you automatically print double-sided products with the same great speed and accuracy. This highly versatile printer will wow your clients.

The main difference between the L365 and the L335 is its speed. The L365 prints at up to 978 sq ft/hr vs the L335 at 538 sq ft/hr. It also comes with a larger eight-inch touch screen versus a four-inch display on the L335.

Because the L365 can print on textiles, it comes with an ink collector for printing fabric. It has the i1 spectrophotometer and allows custom substrate profiling. For more technically complex print jobs, the L365 may be a better choice.

The L365 does not come with RIP software. However, you can purchase this program separately.