Discuss the various aspects of heat pressed vinyl transfers. Popular and new types of vinyl media, suppliers, vinyl cutters /plotters, press times, quality, how to instructions and more can be found in this heat press sub forum.
I thought I would add this to the Thread. I noticed from searching that there wasn't much information on lighted signs. I have a client who has a box but it needs a new front to it. What material should be used and where is a good place to get it? I've heard of Plastic fronts, and Acrylic, but please add suggestions. Also, what vinyl do you use on the lighted signs. Please include any pictures or videos of the process, completed projects and materials if available. Thanks.
I can go into greater detail later, if needed.
You need to purchase sign white plexiglass from a plexiglass wholesaler. Not all white plex is good for back-lit signs. It needs to be translucent enough to allow the light through. You also should use translucent vinyl. You can get this from any sign shop supplier. If you use regular vinyl, then all colors like red or green or blue will look black at night when the sign is turned on. It is a little more expensive but worth it. You apply it to the plex the same as you would any other vinyl sign. As for the plex, it is best to take out the old piece, measure it and give the measurements to the plex wholesaler. Don't go by the size of the box or the size given to you by the sign owner. Always remove the old sign face and use it for measurements. Sign boxes aren't always perfectly square or have exact inch measurements. When designing the graphics for the face, keep in mind that some of the plex will be hidden by the frame. Anywhere from 2-3 inches on each of the four sides will be in the frame. I'm sure others in this forum will have good info as well. Last thing, if the sign is large, it may require more than one piece of plex. They will have to be ship-lapped together to make one piece. Your plex guy will know how to do that. Good luck and charge for both the removal of the old and re-installation of the new piece as well as for the sign face itself!
Van.. what a great explaination..
.. We do alot of these type signs..
OO and many people want to save a few bucks and reuse the old plexi..
Its uallly not a good idea.. as the old plexi will be discolored from the sun.. where the vinyl wasnt.. and white where the vinyl was.. It will look funky..
..
We mever reuse the old plexi.. its just too much of a pain..
and they end up looking horid
You can also use acrylic and polycarb. The polycarb is more expensive but if the sign is in a place where breakage is a problem then you might want to consider it.
Outdoor Lighted Signs 
