Posted in: Business/Marketing

How to Create Your Own Handmade Vinyl Signs?

What is Vinyl Signs? Vinyl Signs are a very popular product for many businesses. They are economical, long lasting, and easy to use. When you are ready to begin designing your Vinyl Sign, here are some helpful tips and suggestions to get you started. Vinyl is a plastic laminate that can be stretched and melted into any form. You can use vinyl for indoor or outdoor signs, banners, and billboards.

 

There are two ways to create vinyl signs. First, you can have a designer do it for you, and second, you can use a vinyl cutter to make your own vinyl signs. Vinyl signs require a machine to cut the design out of the plastic laminate, and software to make their layout.

 

To make your own vinyl signs, the first step is to purchase a vinyl cutter with a paper backing. If you do not have one, look for a used cutter or an inexpensive desktop cutter at a flea market or garage sale. The vinyl cutter and paper backing will help you create your own sign. Cutting the vinyl sign with the correct angle and depth will help to ensure that the picture prints properly.

 

Next, you will need to gather some supplies. You will need a vinyl cutter and paper backing, or you can purchase them already laminated with a paper backing. Make sure that the cutter you choose has a comfortable handle. You may also want to purchase a retractable blade to make cutting out the vinyl easier. You will also need an iron that can melt the paper backing if you intend to use it to mount your vinyl sign.

 

To create your own sign, you will need to download some free software programs for creating vinyl cutters. Some of the software programs available for download have a paper backing already laminated on them. This allows you to simply laminate over the picture that you choose in your template to use as the adhesive. If you are unable to find one of these types of software programs, you can always create your sign by using a hot glue gun to adhere the vinyl to a piece of cardboard or aluminum foil.

 

Weather-resistant vinyl graphics are great for outdoor uses such as signs for your business, restaurants and bars. These types of signs are designed to be UV stabilized to help keep them looking vibrant even in the worst weather conditions. UV stabilized inks are created by applying the ultraviolet resistant inks over a standard paper or plastic base. UV stabilized inks are especially useful when displaying photos in bright sunshine or harsh outdoor conditions. These stabilized inks are available at most office supply stores.