As those working within the sector will know, wrapping, be it vehicle or otherwise, is so much more than simply applying some vinyl and sending customers on their way. The reality is that each job has to be carefully planned out to ensure the wrap or graphic not only looks the part when it leaves the workshop but that it will continue to do so once it’s being used out in the big, wide world. Vinyl choice is just part of the process. Of course, this is of huge importance to ensure the job is a success, but there are so many other elements to wraps. From picking the right printer, to using the correct tools to apply the wrap, there is plenty to consider. Here, SignLink highlights some of the factors to take into account when wrapping. Extreme Endurance Starting with vinyl, Metamark is one of several leading suppliers of materials for use in the wrapping and graphics market. Commercial director Max Somper says materials used for wrapping applications typically embody a range of features that are lacking in materials used in less demanding applications. He explains: “Wrapping materials have to endure extremes of elongation to make them fit over complex surfaces and the adhesives used need to tolerate the same conditions without ’thinning’ or losing their design-performance. “Print characteristics of films need to support larger-than-life colours and accommodate large ink volumes. Metamark MD-Class materials can claim all the features desired for quality print and colour fidelity, but the company’s premium cast films is reported to occupy the apex spot for anyone looking for a state-of-theart wrapping film.” Somper adds: “Quality too has a bearing on this material’s qualifications for the role. Metamark has a raft of processes and proprietary measures overarching its manufacturing, and the company’s wrapping films are said to set benchmark standards for consistency and performance that wrappers trust.” Metamark offers materials suitable for use across large commercial projects through to customisation jobs on single vehicles, which are becoming increasingly popular as more consumers discover the possibilities of wrapping. Somper picks out MetaCast MDC which he says has become the go-to film for wrappers who need a quality product with reliable results. “Materials development and improvements have made wrapping more accessible and, some argue, easier to learn, in recent years,” Somper adds. GETTING TO GRIPS From selecting a durable vinyl that will stand the test of time to investing in a printer suitable for creating vibrant graphics, there are several elements to producing wraps. Here, we look at some of the techniques and materials required in this area 51 Issue 255 - October / November 2024 email: news@signlink.co.uk WRAPPING MATERIALS AND TECHNIQUES ▲FESPA’s WrapFest is returning to Silverstone this October
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