Did you know that the printed signage industry may reach USD 41.393 billion by 2027 ? For those of us who are passionate about branding and advertising, this is fantastic news!
Today’s small business owners know that vinyl signs are an ideal investment for outdoor advertising. They are lightweight, cost-effective, and durable. It’s a win-win all around!
If you are in the vinyl sign business, you understand the importance of having the knowledge and the right vinyl sign products to meet your customers’ needs. You must have the best available vinyl materials, plotter blades, and vinyl cutters.
But where do you begin? Read on to learn how to choose the best materials and produce top-quality signs for your customers. After all, the result will bring profits for you both!
Why Are Vinyl Signs Such a Big Deal?
Vinyl is a very flexible material that offers you a variety of sign options. It is most often used to make banners. Sign companies use vinyl for many different products.
But banners are not the only uses for this product; floor graphics, murals, windows, and vehicle graphics are other possible applications. Sign makers will often use nylon to reinforce the vinyl. However, using a vinyl overlay can also replace conventional printing methods.
Because they are more adaptable as banners, vinyl signs are perfect for organizations that need outdoor signage but are in a transition phase or on a tight budget. Vinyl is sturdy and is a material that can hold up to outdoor use longer than people may expect. Vinyl is the perfect low-cost option for vinyl signs and has the added benefit of requiring little upkeep.
Sign and graphic companies should provide a variety of vinyl choices if they wish to profit from the rising demand for vinyl banners and signage. Also, they should guarantee their sales personnel have the training to match customer requirements and offer high-quality products.
Types of Signs
When addressing vinyl sign options, there are several types of vinyl from which to choose. Here are the different kinds of vinyl to produce the best quality signs:
Scrim
Scrim banners are among the most durable and ideal for outdoor signage. This is because they contain a single sheet of PVC polyester cloth laminated between two layers of transparent vinyl.
The resistance of the scrim banner has nothing to do with its weight. Even on windy days, you can still read these signs. That’s important for advertising.
Coated/Dipped
Given its durability, the heftier cost that goes along with coated/dipped vinyl is easy to justify. This vinyl signage is a good choice for billboards and vehicle graphics.
Smooth
Because this vinyl lacks scrim mesh and is not very durable, you will often find it used inside. Business owners appreciate its crisp, vivid images, making it easy for potential customers to read.
Backlit
This vinyl is perfect for long-term advertising. Because it contains a polymeric plasticizer, your customers can use this signage for both indoor and outdoor signs.
Mesh
Outdoor banners often use mesh. This includes road banners and wall-mounted banners, building wraps, and fences. This banner is ideal for windy locations due to the mesh holes’ ability to let the wind pass through them.
Mesh banners contain polymeric plasticizers, which makes them lightweight and long-lasting. Due to the semi-solvent inks used during printing, they also deliver rich, long-lasting color that is weather resistant. Also, they are resistant to air contaminants and are retardant to flame.
Speaker Mesh
Speaker mesh is ideal for wrapping buildings. It also works well for covering concert scaffolding.
Matte
Matte is a popular choice because it is a sturdy and durable material that is lightweight and convenient to transport. It has both indoor and outdoor uses, which is another benefit. Your customer will get the best of both worlds.
Block-Out
This is the heaviest banner type when compared to others. It has a sturdy construction and holds up under all types of weather. Block-out is best for outdoor use because the material, which has a black line running through the middle, can block out light.
Vinyl Cutters and Plotter Blades
Vinyl sign makers need special tools to do the job right. The most vital tool for any vinyl sign maker is a vinyl cutter. Cutting vinyl signs can yield a significant return for your modest setup cost.
Investing in your business by purchasing a vinyl cutter can help you grow your small business over time. But, you must maintain your cutting tool and keep it in good condition. Your vinyl sign tools should be in good shape for you to keep a smooth-running business.
Since a vinyl cutter is your primary source of income, here is where you will invest most of your funds. Cost-cutting on this machine is not an option if you intend to grow your company over the long term.
The plotter blade is the cutter’s most crucial component. The element of the machine that separates and shapes the letters and design elements for signs is called a plotter blade.
Plotter blades can become dull, just like any sharp-edged tool. Even if you take great care of them, you’ll need to replace them at some point.
How often should a plotter blade be changed? Well, the lifespan of a plotter blade is uncertain.
But if you start having problems cutting, you might need a replacement blade. The basic consensus is that your plotter blade should be able to cut 500–1000 yards of vinyl.
The Right Vinyl Sign Products Make a Difference for Your Business
The quality of your sign-making tools will determine the quality of the signs you produce for your customers. Simple Solutions is committed to offering top-notch vinyl sign products. We can help you achieve your goal of making the best quality vinyl signage.
Speak to one of our knowledgeable staff members if you’re looking for a specific product for your vinyl sign applications. Our team is full of knowledgeable professionals that can help you find the best solutions to meet your needs.Contact us or check out our Blog section for ideas and inspiration for your business.
Simple Solutions International offers a full selection of plotter blades and plotter pens as well as a variety of useful tools for use in plotting and sign-making, such as plotter adapters, masking film, spray mask, and other sign-making tools and accessories.