Today, the SignWorks installation team returned to Sunnyvale to finish the lettering for the two monument signs at ONDAS Networks’ new home, as well as the entry doors. The client requested a different shade of blue vinyl and slightly larger cut vinyl letters, so the team had to recut the vinyl. At SignWorks, we always aim to please! Let’s take a closer look at how we create these cut vinyl letters and where they are commonly used.
What Is Cut Vinyl Lettering?
Cut vinyl lettering is a popular choice for many businesses when it comes to signage. But what exactly is cut vinyl lettering, and why is it so popular?
Understanding Cut Vinyl Lettering
Cut vinyl lettering involves cutting letters, numbers, or shapes from sheets of colored vinyl. The vinyl is a type of durable plastic that can stick to various surfaces, making it ideal for signs. The letters are cut using a special machine that follows a design created on a computer. This process allows for precise and clean cuts, resulting in professional-looking letters.
Why Cut Vinyl Lettering Is Popular
- Versatility: Cut vinyl can be used on windows, walls, vehicles, and signs. It’s perfect for both indoor and outdoor use.
- Customization: Businesses can choose from a wide range of colors, sizes, and fonts to match their branding.
- Durability: Vinyl lettering can withstand different weather conditions, making it suitable for outdoor signage.
- Affordability: Compared to other signage options, cut vinyl lettering is cost-effective and provides a high-quality appearance.
The Fabrication Process of Cut Vinyl Lettering
Creating cut vinyl lettering involves several steps, each requiring precision and attention to detail. Here’s a step-by-step look at the process:
Designing the Letters
The first step is designing the letters on a computer. This involves choosing the font, size, and color of the vinyl. For ONDAS Networks, the client wanted a specific shade of blue and slightly larger letters.
- Selecting the Font and Size: The design team works with the client to choose the best font and size for their needs.
- Choosing the Color: The team selects the appropriate vinyl color to match the client’s branding. In this case, a new shade of blue was chosen.
Cutting the Vinyl
Once the design is finalized, the next step is to cut the vinyl. This is done using a machine called a vinyl cutter.
- Loading the Vinyl Sheet: A sheet of the chosen vinyl color is loaded into the vinyl cutter.
- Setting Up the Machine: The design is uploaded to the machine, and the settings are adjusted to ensure precise cutting.
- Cutting the Letters: The machine cuts the vinyl according to the design, creating the letters or shapes.
Weeding the Vinyl
After the vinyl is cut, the excess vinyl needs to be removed. This process is called weeding.
- Peeling Away Excess Vinyl: The excess vinyl around the letters is carefully peeled away, leaving only the desired letters.
- Removing Inner Pieces: Any small pieces inside letters (like the centers of “O” or “A”) are also removed.
Applying Transfer Tape
Transfer tape is used to move the vinyl letters from the backing paper to the final surface.
- Placing Transfer Tape: A layer of transfer tape is placed over the vinyl letters.
- Smoothing the Tape: The tape is smoothed down to ensure it sticks well to the vinyl.
Installing the Vinyl Letters
The final step is installing the vinyl letters on the desired surface.
- Positioning the Letters: The team carefully positions the letters on the monument signs and entry doors.
- Applying the Letters: The transfer tape is pressed down to make the vinyl stick to the surface.
- Removing the Tape: The transfer tape is slowly peeled away, leaving the vinyl letters perfectly in place.
Where and How Cut Vinyl Lettering Is Used
Cut vinyl lettering is incredibly versatile and can be used in many different ways. Here are some common applications:
Storefront Windows
Businesses often use cut vinyl lettering on their storefront windows to display their name, hours of operation, or special promotions. The vinyl sticks well to glass and can be easily removed or replaced when needed.
Vehicle Graphics
Vinyl lettering is a popular choice for vehicle graphics. Companies use it to display their logo, contact information, and branding on cars, trucks, and vans. The vinyl is durable and can withstand the elements, making it perfect for outdoor use.
Indoor Signs
Cut vinyl lettering is also used for indoor signs. It can be applied to walls, doors, and even floors to create directional signs, motivational quotes, or branding elements. The clean look of vinyl lettering enhances the professional appearance of any space.
Outdoor Signs
For outdoor signs, like the monument signs at ONDAS Networks’ new home, cut vinyl lettering is ideal. It is weather-resistant and can be customized to fit the specific needs of the business. The durable material ensures the signs look great for a long time.
Conclusion
The SignWorks team takes pride in delivering high-quality signage that meets the specific needs of our clients. By recutting the vinyl letters to match ONDAS Networks’ requested shade of blue and size requirements, we ensured their monument signs look perfect. Cut vinyl lettering is a versatile, durable, and cost-effective option for businesses looking to create professional and eye-catching signs. Whether it’s for storefront windows, vehicle graphics, indoor signs, or outdoor signs, cut vinyl lettering is a fantastic choice. At SignWorks, we are committed to providing top-notch signage solutions that help businesses shine.