It would help if you asked yourself several questions when ordering a custom vinyl graphic to ensure that you get the print you need.
Vinyl printing is the process of creating a design and cutting it out of a thin material that will adhere to a surface. Vinyl graphics are ideal for sticking simple designs to a wall or window and can have various colors and transparency depending on your needs. A custom vinyl printer like Craftsmen industries will take your design and print it to your size specifications, allowing you to place it on the surface yourself with relative ease. It would help if you asked yourself several questions when ordering a custom vinyl graphic to ensure that you get the print you need.
Will the vinyl stick to the inside or the outside of your window?
The answer to this question may rely heavily on if the window you're sticking your vinyl onto has a tint as if it does, the color of the window will affect what the design looks like on the other side. It's not always apparent if your glass is transparent, and some glass will have a subtle tint that's not obvious until your vinyl has been placed on it. If this is the case, you may want to stick your vinyl on the outside of the window to avoid the window tinting or distorting your design's look. In general, you'll want to attach the vinyl on the inside of your window, as this will help protect it from getting damaged if subjected to bad weather or general wear and tear. If you install your vinyl on the inside or the outside, you don't need to worry about cleaning it, as vinyl prints are mostly waterproof.
What colors should you use?
This depends on the look and feels you're going for with your vinyl print, but the fantastic thing about this printing method is that as long as your window is transparent, all colors will look good. The only thing to consider is that black isn't necessarily the best color to use, as unlike on a white background like paper, black can become lost when placed on a transparent background. For this reason, it's recommended that at least some color is used to ensure people can see the sign.
Should you use a matte or gloss finish?
Both are viable options for a vinyl print, but as soon as you stick either on the inside of a window, it will result in a glossy look, so if this is the case, it won't make much difference. If you're using your vinyl on the outside of a window, you'll see a matte finish. Select this if it's your preference.
What other options are available?
If you want to make your vinyl stand out, you may want to choose a transparent or translucent color palette, giving a unique and exciting look and may help your window vinyl stand out.
What should you do if you have existing vinyl graphics already?
Before installing new vinyl prints, it will be necessary to remove your old ones, which you can either do it yourself or let the company that's installing them for you know, so they can bring the necessary equipment to remove them for you.
What is vinyl?
Now that you have your space prepared for your new vinyl, you can decide what type of vinyl is best. Vinyl comes in a roll like wallpaper and is made from a plastic film that adheres to almost anything that you may want to stick it onto, meaning that you can add a design or words onto any smooth surface you like.
Vinyl is made to withstand the elements and is tested in both scorching and cold weather, meaning that they will be a safe choice regardless of where you live. Industrial companies use vinyl on trains and even aircraft with no issues, so having one outside of your office building will not be an issue.
What types of vinyl are available?
Gloss finish
Vinyl prints will a gloss finish have a shiny surface, like glossy paint, and come in the widest variety of colors of any vinyl type. They generally last between 3 to 5 years and can last longer if you get a premium quality print and are the best at standing up to harsh weather, so are a good choice if you are using them outside.
Matt finish
Like matt paint, these vinyl prints have a non-reflective surface, giving a premium look compared to a gloss finish. These can look very attractive and are often used in windows or other indoors, but come in fewer colors than their glossy counterparts.
Translucent vinyl
These are explicitly designed to let light, though, and allows you to get more creative with the design. When adhered to a window, these can give a stained-glass look that is very attractive and come with a unique satin finish that can last up to 10 years, even outdoors.
Blackboard vinyl
These generally come in large sheets with a single color, commonly black, and have a textured surface meaning that you can write or draw on them with chalk and then clean them again with an eraser or damp cloth. Blackboard vinyl is commonly used in cafes to write the daily menu but can also be used as a topper for tables or office noticeboards.
Metallic vinyl
Metallic vinyl comes in both matt and gloss finishes and allows you to sign with a gold, silver, copper, or other metal finish. This type of vinyl is most commonly used to give a unique decorative look or match with a brand that uses similar metallic colors, but are less able to withstand harsh conditions that are primarily used indoors.
Reflective vinyl
If you need to print a warning or safety sign, then a reflective finish may be a good idea to ensure people can see it in the dark. They can be used in windows, walls, or even vehicles where you need the design to be seen in low light conditions.
Frosted vinyl
Frosted vinyl stickers are designed to be stuck on glass and allow light to pass, though you cannot see them, making this ideal for rooms where you want privacy without sacrificing light. They come in several colors and transparent, and you can also have patterns added to the finish, such as spots or rice paper.
