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How to Choose the Right Overlaminate

October 23, 2018 By Digital Print Media Editor

Overlaminate may seem like an afterthought compared to deciding the primary elements of your graphic such as color, materials, and design. While it is a finishing touch, it is a very important one to consider.

An overlaminate will prolong the life of your graphic and protect it from weathering, UV rays, damage, and scratches.

Types of Overlaminate Materials

The main types of overlaminate materials are cast, monomeric, or polymeric vinyl. Depending on the type of graphic you have chosen, one of these three will be the best option. Keep in mind that the substrate (the layer under the overlaminate) dictates the material for the overlaminate.

It is possible to mix materials in some cases. A better quality overlaminate can be used with a lesser quality substrate. However, the opposite is not true. A cast vinyl cannot be combined with a polymeric or monomeric overlaminate because it can cause edge curl or shrinkage. Cast vinyl must be paired with a cast overlaminate.

Think about the type, location, and use of the graphic.

Will it be a floor graphic, a sign, or car wraparound?

Is the image 2D or 3D?

This will help to decide with type of overlaminate material that is required.

For 2D graphics including signs, interior walls, or displays, a standard polymeric overlaminate is recommended. With 3D graphics, a cast overlaminate should be used. There is more of a stretch of the material with 3D applications, and any other type of material will not work correctly.

Cast vinyl and cast overlaminate are the most long-lasting combination of the materials available for graphics. While the cost is higher with the cast materials, the durability and stability are better. Over time this cost difference will pay off with a longer-lasting sign, floor graphics, or mural, especially those that are placed in outdoor spaces. Cast overlaminates can also have several types of finishes, including glossy, satin, matte, or luster to match the desired appearance of the project.

Overlaminates are an important finishing touch for any type of graphics or signs. Protect your investment with a quality overlaminate that will stand the test of weather, wear, and time.

There are several types of overlaminates to choose from, so consider the use, placement, and look that you’d like as you discuss the options with your vendor or graphic designer.

 

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Filed Under: Digital Print Media News, Floor Graphics, Vinyl Wrapping, Wall Graphics, Window Graphics

Quick Tips for Choosing Vehicle Wrap Media

October 18, 2018 By Digital Print Media Editor

Vehicle wraps are a tried and true effective way to get the word out about your business. Once you’ve had the wrap installed, the advertisement will pay for itself over time with the exposure to many types of people who may not have otherwise known about your services. The advertisement is working for you round the clock no matter where your vehicle is driving or even if it’s parked.

Wraps are not exclusively for business owners. They can be used by anyone who wants to upgrade their vehicle with a bold design or even just to change the car’s color.

A recent exciting development is the use of tuning film. This essentially replaces the need for a car to be repainted. A full or partial wrap can be used, with many color and finish options to make your vehicle look as good as new.

Certain textured wraps are only meant to be used as a partial wrap. For a full wrap, the look is very precise, almost exactly like paint, and must be applied carefully by a certified installer.

Vehicle wraps come in two different types: cast or calendared. Cast is a more recommended material for a wrap because the dimensional stability is better. This means that the wrap is more supple and will work with the curves of the vehicle. It also offers more options and is longer-lasting than a calendared wrap.

Choose a trusted brand and a certified installer.

There are many brands to choose from, but, for the best result, use a recommended brand that has a proven record of successful installation and durability.

Installing a vehicle wrap is a technical process and requires training. Any reputable business will have a portfolio of previous work and examples to show potential customers. Insist on seeing reviews and ask for recommendations from friends or other business owners.

If you plan to add a vehicle wrap for advertising, remember that it is best to keep it simple. Too much wording or very busy graphics, a too small font size, or a hard-to-read font will completely defeat the purpose of the wrap. People will glance at the vehicle when it is moving and when it is parked, so a simple, clear message tends to be most effective.

Quality design and materials over quantity of advertising words or pictures will get your vehicle noticed. Vehicle wraps are the solution to rejuvenating an old car’s finish, adding an eclectic design, or advertising a business.

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A post shared by Mactac Europe (@mactac_europe) on Feb 3, 2018 at 3:16pm PST

Filed Under: Digital Print Media News, Vinyl Wrapping

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