nels0359

I worked at an auto-body shop for a number of years and had to do plenty of graphics removal. The only trick to getting vinyl or other decals off is heat, no chemicals are needed. A blow dryer or heat gun will help lift even the worst cemented down graphics. Imagine a dark colored vehicle sitting in the direct sun on a hot day, where it is almost too hot to touch or at least hold your hand on for more than a few seconds. This is the approximate temperature at which most adhesives begin to relax. If any adhesive remained after the graphics were removed, denatured alcohol on a soft cloth was used to take that off if necessary.

I have very exact shapes that I need to cut out, and I am trying to work through the process before getting too far ahead of myself only to find out I need better equipment, different software, etc. I am still currently deciding on what type of cutter I want to buy and do not have any software. I am assuming the easiest way will be to scan an image of a template and that it won't be too difficult to covert it accurately to a ready to cut design. The shapes are fairly small, 1" x 5" as an average. The greater the accuracy the better, and I am hoping to be +/- 1/64" (+/- .015"). Does this seem reasonable, and is the approach correct? Thanks, Paul

I've been contemplating purchasing a vinyl cutter for my business, and I believe it is going to be a necessity soon. I am looking for guidance on what type of equipment I should consider. We manufacture various types of fishing tackle and use holographic vinyl tape to finish lures. The material comes on rolls up to 6" wide (although I may be able to get wider by special order.) The pieces we cut range from 1/2" x 3" up to 1.5" x 6". We currently cut-out hundreds of these by hand, and it will soon be thousands. I have looked into getting die-cuts, but die costs are just not worth it. Looking at the short-term, cost is an issue. I would like to get into something entry-level and learn a bit before getting too invested (under $1000.) By next year, cost won't be a factor, so upgrading wouldn't be a problem. What type of cutter would be a good starting option? Thanks, Paul