mask for vinyl plotter

[SFX]

Hey everyone

Just wondering what people recommend to use in my vinyl plotter for mask when using automotive paints

Thanks

Shane

[Craig Fraser]

Check with your local vinyl supply house to see if they carry, or can order something referred to as masking vinyl. I know that R-Tape makes one, and even Gerber private labeled one in the past. It is basically a solvent resistant vinyl, with medium tack. Dave Monnig at Coast carries some brands, but I can't remember the name off the top of my head. Give them a call. (714)-635-5557 Good luck.

Paint on.,,, or vinyl on,....

Fraser

Paint on

[Rhyne]

hey craig. do you use a plotter/cutter? I've seen goodeve, learn, lavallee, and others do designs on computers and i try to follow a lot of your work that you do, cause you've like taught me so much and all, but i have never seen or heard of you using vynal masks, plotter wise. Do you freehand most of your work and use freehand stencils? Doesn't matter, i was just curious and was something i noticed.

[Craig Fraser]

I do have a system, but I use it very rarely. I usually only use computer cut vinyl when I am reproducing logos, or graphics that will be used multiple times. Certain types of tribal, and very small lettering, or interlacing designs are also handy with the computer cut system. The downside is that it can easy become a crutch. Anytime you have something that can make the job faster, you tend to use it. No crime in that. The downside is, if you use it, rather then create a new graphic, then it is limiting your creativity in favor of production. I have always said, right tool for the right job. The computer, and cutter is a great tool for custom painting, but it is not indespensible. While many artists create very unique one-off artwork with them, it is very easy to create stale, cookie-cutter artwork. To be fair, the same can be said for the stencil systems that I produce. On average, the majority of my work is freehand. When I need the tools like stencils, cutters, or whatever, it is always nice to have them around, and be adept with them. The artists you mentioned do just that. They all can freehand, they choose to use the computer. I think I am just cautious in my recommendation, because I never want to see the computer replace creative design, and freehand work. I don't feel this belief is old fashioned, I just think that a certain spontanaety will be lost when there is the temptation to cut, and paste. Hope this answers your question. Whenever choosing a tool, technqiue, style, etc. Always be sure that they are choices, and not ways of replacing a lack of experience, or ability.

keep on paintin.
Fraser

[kandyman]

Hey FFX,
I use the vinyl spray mask from signwarehouse.com. Stuff works great & they ship COD.
Make sure you get low tack transfer tape to apply the vinyl...

[Rhyne]

very cool answer. you are correct as you say the right tool for the job. thanks

[SFX]

Cheers Craig and Kandyman :tup:

[Doc400]

I have found Avery to be the best in my (limited) experience, but there are other brands like Mactac etc. just check out your local sign supply shop

[mattm52]

The Oracal Grey is really good for curved surfaces. The blue is good to, just not flexible enough for a helmet.

Matt