Case Study: DeSigns Group
A grand-scale ‘billboard’ graphic that stretched over an entire block in downtown Vancouver to advertise the Patina Concert condominium development comprised nearly 139 m² (1,500 sf) of printed media in three large sections. Conceptualized by the Idea Partner, it was produced as a building wrap by DeSigns Group in Delta, B.C.

“We used a matte white calendered film for this design, as its strong acrylic adhesive adds reliability and longevity to signs in this varied-weather region,” says Wayne Smutylo, owner of DeSigns Group. “The opaque blockout property is key, allowing the client to change graphics as the project evolves through selling phases without deinstallation.”

Installation took five days to complete, applying each 1.2 x 3-m (4 x 10-ft) vinyl section in turn.

Don’t underestimate overlaminates
In addition to protecting digitally printed environmental graphics from various stresses, foot traffic and the elements to ensure safety and durability, overlaminates can also enhance their appearance and make their installation easier by adding rigidity.

Like the printable films to which they are applied, different overlaminates are specifically designed for certain types of applications. It is important to choose the correct material for the job, based on that material’s properties and lamination process.

Traditional overlaminates are available with matte, gloss or lustre finishes. Textured laminates, meanwhile, can provide high-profile finishes, image enhancements and protection for high-end architectural graphics, interior décor, point-of-purchase (POP) displays, decals, furnishings, floor graphics and sign applications. Texture options include fine and coarse wood grain, brushed metal, flock, carbon fibre and leather, supporting a wide range of creative concepts.

Determining which type of overlaminate—if any—best suits a given project and then knowing how to install it efficiently can make a big difference for graphic applications in terms of time and money.

Stay informed and successful
As environmental graphics continue to gain prominence in the digital printing industry, it will remain important for signmakers to keep informed about the latest technologies, installation techniques and trends. By networking with other installers of graphics to seek out advice and inspiration, whether in person or via online communities and social media networks, they can ensure they will be ready for the challenges of tomorrow.

Jeffrey Stadelman is technical marketing manager for Mactac Graphic Products, which produces pressure-sensitive vinyl, overlaminates, mounting and marking films and other media for wide-format digital printing and screenprinting. Mactac also manages the Application Nation, an online community of graphic application specialists sharing standards, education, ideas, trends and techniques. For more information, visit www.mactac.com and www.theapplicationnation.com.