We have been making sandblasted signs for over 20 years. We have always painted the entire sign with success. However, I have been seeing other signs with vinyl on the raised letters instead of paint. Can anyone share the pros and cons of using vinyl instead of paint? Thanks-
Posted by Glenn S. Harris (Member # 2190) on :
Vinyl is quicker and cheaper. That's the only pro I can think of. I've seen some digital stuff applied to them. That's cool if you can't do the pictorial stuff.
We finish everything with spar varnish and 1-shot. Lasts a good while & wheathers in a manner that makes refinishing easier.
Posted by Michael R. Bendel (Member # 5847) on :
We only use vinyl for outlined letters. Paint everything else.
Putting vinyl to the edge of the letter reveal (recess) would only be trouble.
Posted by Bill Dirkes (Member # 1000) on :
I have used vinyl for small logos, etc on blasted work, but don't like it for the major parts of the sign. Just something not quite right with vinyl in what seems to me to be a very organic setting. Just my humble opinion.
Posted by Jillbeans (Member # 1912) on :
To me, it is like putting cheap chocolate in an expensive box. Or plastic "chrome" rims from WalMart on a Ferrari. I don't make many sandblasted signs but find that they are quite easy to paint...and a can of paint is inexpensive and instant...no plotting, weeding, masking, sticking, pulling off the masking, etc. Love....Jill
Posted by Dale Feicke (Member # 767) on :
I have to go with the others. I've used vinyl for small details a couple of times. But putting vinyl on a sandblasted sign is something like putting a vinyl outline around gold leaf letters. It just cheapens the whole thing.
Posted by Tony Vickio (Member # 2265) on :
You got ot Jill!!!! Ahhhh! Ferrari!!!
Posted by Bobbie Rochow (Member # 3341) on :
I have only done a few sandblasted signs for the business, but am getting more customers interested. I would never stick vinyl on them!
Posted by Rene Giroux (Member # 4980) on :
Why is this question even being asked ???
Posted by Debra Carr (Member # 6986) on :
Rene- I asked the question, because I am seeing sandblasted signs in my area with vinyl on the raised letters. I personally wouldn't want to use vinyl. Thus, the question... why would others choose to use vinyl.
Posted by Bill Lynch (Member # 3815) on :
One reason may be that cast vinyl in some colors will out last enamel.
Posted by Ricky Jackson (Member # 5082) on :
I wouldn't even think of using vinyl on a sandblasted sign. Get you some Shur-Line 3" "mohair" rollers, don't load up the roller too much or it'll run down the sides of the letters. Use a light touch and you'll be amazed at how quick and easy this makes is and it will last a long time too.
Posted by Glenn Taylor (Member # 162) on :
I'm with Bill Lynch on this. I've used vinyl from time to time simply because some colors simply don't hold up outdoors.
Its all in a matter of how the project is designed. And in some cases, using vinyl is a longer lasting, more cost effective choice.
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Posted by Rene Giroux (Member # 4980) on :
So now we use vinyl for quality ??? Posted by Glenn Taylor (Member # 162) on :
Considering the lack of durability of certain colors, yes.
Which will hold its color better while facing the sun - pink mixed from Bright Red & White (or Magenta & White) lettering enamel or Gerber 220 Pink?
How about Burgundy One Shot vs. Burgundy Oracal 751 while facing due South?
Think about how this industry has changed. Now instead of clear vertical grain redwood, we're using foam -- and the foam holds up better.
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