Muttley

Update for you all. After inspecting the decals, I found that it was not adhering to the painted wall. All of the areas that I had "forced" into the textures wall had come up, and it would have only been a matter of a few more days before the vinyl fell right off the wall. The adhesive was still in good shape, but each letter was easily pealed off of the paint. I could have reapplied the decals to a mirror or glass and would have been comfortable with the application. There was no sign that the decals were peeling due to moisture, grease, oils or any other contaminates. I was puzzled by this, and suggest a sample of 631 be used to test the paint. I thoroughly cleaned the test area with and alcohol based cleaner, followed by Rapid Tac II. I dried the area and applied the vinyl "dry", forcing the 631 down into any/all crevasses. Now 2 days later, the sample of 631 is showing signs of the same issue. It is lifting from the paint. On a side note, I spoke with an instructor from a different school, using the same type of paint (not sure if it is an exact match) who had the vary same issue. This other school had ordered vinyl decals from another supplier (competition!) and they could not get them to stay on the paint as well. There solution was to apply the vinyl to a clear acrylic and mount the acrylic to the wall. I have researched this as much as time has allowed. Oracal states: "Surfaces to which the material will be applied must be cleaned thoroughly of dust, grease or any contaminants. Freshly lacquered or painted surfaces should be allowed to stand for at least three weeks after complete curing. The compatibility of selected lacquers and paints should be tested by the end-user prior to use." The painted walls that I was applying to, as well as the other school had been painted longer than tree weeks prior to installation. My only conclusion is that it is an incompatibility between the vinyl and paint. To solve the issue and keep the customer happy, I am extending a "discount" on their next purchase. I am bidding a dimensional foam lettering application in place of the vinyl. I am also going to try and get a sample of the paint used in the school, and test at home with various applications. This is all I have. I am open to an other suggestions that you may have! Mutttley

I recently did 2 window lettering jobs for the Taekwondo association that my family belongs to. These are the doors to 2 new schools that they will be opening. They are basic 2 color layered font with simple graphic. Created like the decals from the other locations. Let me know what you think. Muttley

:thumbsup:

Fundraisers are ruff, good luck. I find that most times, when asked about fundraisers, they are looking for "free" product.

I really like the last one as well. If I were to change anything, I would shrink his hands down a little, a little overpowering. I then would only have the company name, number and email on the banner he is holding. I would list all of the items offered with a "and more!" in a round circle behind the monster. This way they see the monster, company name and number the most. This image will lock into their heads. Just my one cent, (can't afford the other one right now!). Muttley

nice

The news papers were up only for construction. That school was to open last month, but they were so far behind, that they were still building the interior when I installed the decal.

I came up with $250.00 each, installed. Total price for both vans would be $500.00 I think you are right on the mark with pricing!

Looks good, and you should be able to use the brand logos without any issue. Instead of outlining the words, try placing a solid stripe of white behind the graphics. I think that the words would "pop" out more, and it would "clean up" the windows a little. The customers would be able to see the signage, yet it would help them focus on the activities inside the studio. Just my 2.5 cents! Muttley

Good customer service!

Rain-x on the window? Most car washes spray a "drying agent" on the car, in reality it is a wax. They also use a body protectant similar to rain-x / wax. Use a glass cleaner with alcohol in it, I like Invisible Glass, before appling the decals.

Ya! - Dollar Tree!

Stick-Mission, I am way out in Hillsboro, and unfortunately am unable to have you hang out for awhile. Again, go down to Pacific Sign Supply, they would be more than happy to show you how things work, especially if they think they will be making a customer too! Muttley

Sticker-Mission, I see your are in Portland Or., nice to see you neighbor! That equipment you posted is good quality, and the price is right. Yes you can get a all in one machine, but for starting out in something that may or maynot take off, the craigslist deal is better. If you are in Portland, go down to Pacific Coast Sign Supply, SE 7th, and talk with them. That way you will gain one on one contact information, see all the supplies that you can purchase, and even try out some equipment that they have on display. As far as making money, it all depends on what you want to do. Making banners and magnets are quick, easy, and profitable. If you can find the customer. Making decals is fun, but unless the customer wants more than 2 or 3, there is little money in it. This is my issue right now, everyone wants only one decal for their car, and it takes an hour or two to create the art/decal for $6-$10. As far as software goes, it is all up to you. I personally use Inkscape and Sign Blazer. I do use Photoshop, MGI, Print Master, plus a few others. Hope this helps! Muttley

Good find Aries

I have only done a few shirts now, all of which are being "tested" right now. I have found that running 6-10 deg. above the manufacture's temp recommendation, and re-pressing after removing the backing helps ALOT!

Jenny, Looks good, and a great price! There are now several places around me doing full color printed banners at $3.00 a sq.ft. These are on 13oz white, and the only additional expense is custom graphics. I have not done a banner in months, and I am around the $5-$6 range for 2 colors, basic text, and what I call "in-house graphic" (if I have the image on file and do not have to spend time creating/modifying = in-house graphic).

$199.00 for both, installed. I got my foot in the door with these.

Pic #2...

Lets see them up on the wall

:thumbsup:

They are great! ;D