A Sticky Situation: The Do’s & Don’ts of Vehicle Graphics
Whether you just add your web address on your tailgate or custom wrap the entire vehicle, vinyl graphics are a great way to express your personality and promote your business! It’s a fun way to attract the attention of potential buyers while parked in the parking lot of your favorite hangout – the “oohs,” “ahhhs” and “oh wows!” are great for business. But, there are few tips of the trade to know when turning your vehicle into a billboard on wheels. Without a few do’s & don’ts, vinyl vehicle graphics can quickly become a sticky situation.
Here are a few “Do’s & Don’ts” of vehicle graphics:
- Do combine the styles – For the best overall look, do a combination of both vinyl lettering and vinyl decals. Vinyl letters are typically solid in color and contour cut to remove the background. Usually, the name of the company, contact information, web or social media addresses, and tagline are done in solid color vinyl lettering. To add a little variety to the design, add a full-color decal – it can either be your company logo or a relevant graphic that shows prospective customers what kind of service or products you offer. The combination of colors and graphics in a well-laid out design is both appealing to onlookers and maximizes the effectiveness of your advertising!
- Do step outside of the box – Spice up your lettering! Vinyl letters don’t have to be dull or boring. Vinyl comes in primary colors, pastel colors, neon colors – you name it, you can order it! You can even get vinyl in metallic colors – with brushed and polished finishes. And if we don’t offer pre-colored vinyl in the exact color you want, we can print any color you want on white vinyl. The options are limitless, so you can think outside the box.
- Do size your letters properly – While you’re designing, pay close attention to sizing. Make sure your letters are large enough to be visible to moving motorists. Stick with this formula: 1” lettering for every 10’ of distance. In other words, if you want your lettering to be visible from 30 feet away, shoot for 3 inch letters. And, be sure not to add too many lines of text. When it comes to lettering your vehicle, less really is more. Keep your messages short and simple, and your contact information brief. The more there is to read, the less likely people will have time to read it.
- Don’t forget about your windows – Use that window space! You can place custom cut vinyl decals of your logo in your windows, or cover them in a window perf. These thin, laminated sheets of vinyl allow you to display full-color graphics or photos across the surface of your windows without hindering your ability to see out of them. Plus, as an added benefit, they provide both privacy and shading from excessive sunlight. Don’t neglect your windows!
- Don’t skimp on quality – Calendared vinyl is the most popular because it is least expensive, but keep in mind, this economy grade of vinyl is not made to last. If you want to reduce fading and shrinkage from the sun and inclement weather, go with a high performance cast vinyl. The satin, shiny finish will look great for years to come! And, if night visibility appeals to you, request the reflective grade of vinyl. That way, your vehicle graphics will work for you around the clock!
- Don’t pay for installation – Vinyl lettering and decals are easy to install! Save yourself nearly 70% and order the vinyl package without the loaded installation fees. All you need to Do-It-Yourself is a simple application kit and a little patience. There is a host of online how-to videos to walk you through the installation. And, even if you make a few mistakes, there are simple solutions to correct them! Easy as pie – no need to pay to have a technician install it for you!
Vinyl lettering and graphics are a great way to personalize and brand your vehicle. Show a little of your personality while sharing with prospective clients more about your products and services while you’re driving around town. It’s easy to design, install and display vinyl letters and decals. If you know the basics, it doesn’t have to be a sticky situation!
