Is there a difference in the material used by a vinyl banner maker?
Many people are not aware of the material that is used in making a vinyl banner. Most people would think of it as the same vinyl that is used to make a tarp or other similar products. The vinyl used by a banner maker is actually different. There are a few different choices in the material you use for a banner. You would need to make your choice according to the use of your banner.
How do you choose the right material for your vinyl banner?
You can make the decision about the material you prefer your banner maker to use by educating yourself on the choices preferred for the applications.
Outdoor banners - At TheSignChef.com we recommend our Heavy Duty, High Gloss (14 ounce) BannerMax Material. The component that makes a vinyl banner “heavy duty” is the nylon scrim woven into the waterproof fabric. This strong, tight weave provides the much needed tear resistance during high winds. If your audience is going to be viewing your banner up close though, we offer a premium “Super Smooth” banner material option at no additional charge. However, even when using heavy duty material, the grommets (eyelets) can tear right out of the corners if the banner is not hung properly.
Indoor banners - Most indoor banners are made from a 13 ounce vinyl made for the production of a clean clear print for your banner.
Trade Show banners - If you wish to project the best possible Corporate Image, there’s nothing better than a full-color Flexible Plastic Banner (yes, plastic). When digitally printed on a high resolution printer, this photo receptive plastic banner material will project the highest quality appearance possible. It’s so durable and flexible, it can be used again and again with a portable, retractable banner stand.
Two Sided Banners - For the banner maker who makes a custom two sided banner, the material of choice is a 16 ounce blockout banner material.
Street Banners - Street banners should be made using 20 ounce, extra heavy duty blockout vinyl banner material with a super, tough webbing sewn into the hem for extra reinforcement. Grommets should be placed every 2’. Wind slits substantially reduce wind loads and are now usually required by municipalities on all vinyl street banners.
How does a banner maker get the design on the vinyl?
There are two techniques for creating a vinyl banner. Any banner maker should be able to help you choose the technique that is right for you.
1. The first technique is to cut vinyl shapes and letters that are then applied to the base of the vinyl banner. this is done by a machine and has a clean finished look. Layering of the vinyl can also be done to create certain effects. This can be a way to create vinyl that have depth.
2. The second technique is to print directly on the vinyl material. A special printer is used to accomplish this and the ink is designed for signs and vinyl banners. A banner maker should be able to give you specifics on their printer if you ask. The use of a printer allows for great detail with lifelike printing. You can even use a photograph to be printed on a banner. This has become a popular choice for both clients and the banner maker.
We hope that this information has helped educate you about vinyl banners and banner makers. We try to educate and inform the public, so that they in turn, can make the decisions that will work best for their particular needs.
Visit Our Vinyl Banner Page For More Information