Missy Donovan

Subbing In

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Subbing In

By Melissa Donovan

Is it “green”? Most standards require that the substrate is “free of” specific elements or chemicals. Many products are touted as free of PVC, oil, petroleum, halogens, phthalates, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). When a substrate doesn’t contain these, it could be less harmful to the environment or promote recyclability.

Certain components are substituted in placed of non-friendly elements. Not only do they aid in the composition of a more sustainable product, they must also provide a level of print quality, ink compatibility, and reliability required by both the print provider and end user.

Common Elements and Chemicals
Certain elements or chemicals are targets for removal. PVC with chlorine and other unfriendly additives; halogens; phthalates; oil; VOCs; heavy metals—lead, barium, cadmium; APE; formaldehyde; plasticizers; BPA; bleach; composites; chromium additives—stabilizers and pigments; asbestos; organotin; chlorofluorocarbons; carcinogens; phosphate; and glycol-ether are just some.

“Among the most common requests pertain to certain phthalate plasticizers are commonly found in PVC. Then there is cadmium-based stabilizers, which were historically used in a lot of PVC. On the polypropylene side, benzyl butyl phthalate is talked about frequently,” shares Dennis Brunnett, product manager, advertising, FLEXcon.

While some of elements and chemicals are commonly known as unfriendly to the environment, others are determined so by various governing bodies like REACH’s Substances of Very High Concern (SVHC)—phthalates, AZO dyes, DMF, PAHs, PFOs, PFCs, and lead.

“According to REACH regulation, a substance may be proposed as a SVHC if it meets one or more of these conditions—it is carcinogenic; mutagenic; toxic for reproduction; persistent, bio accumulative, and toxic according to the standards set out in the REACH regulation; or on a case-by-case basis if ‘there is scientific evidence of probable serious side effects to human health or the environment, which, give rise to an equivalent level of concern,” explains Karen Stuerenberg, marketing director, Top Value Fabrics.

What’s the Harm?
When a substrate does not include one of the aforementioned elements or chemicals, their absence can classify the media as safer. If in the media, however, they may be harmful to the environment and the people in it or prevent recyclability.

PVC is considered both harmful and prevents recyclability. For example, interior-based applications benefit from a PVC-free substrate. “Some PVCs and formaldehyde have the potential to cause harm when certain levels are reached in well-defined areas, especially interior applications where there isn’t a high level of air turnover,” explains Jim Tufts, unit manager, Perception Wide Format Media.

“Carcinogens, when manufactured or incinerated, release harmful dioxins into the environment. Research has shown that PVC continually emits carcinogens that are linked to cancer and other illnesses, even leading to phase outs among major consumer brands,” agrees Joe Deetz, CEO, Visual Magnetics LP.

PVC is not recyclable and does not break down in landfills, says John Coyne, sales manager, Lintec of America, Inc.

Christian Nole, marketing coordinator, Katz Americas, explains why. “If a substrate were to include certain elements that are not eco-friendly, there is a much higher risk of that product damaging the environment at the end of the product lifecycle. Take PVC/plastics for example; at a certain point in the product lifecycle, elements of the media can no longer be recycled back into production of new material and must be disposed of in a landfill. When this happens, many of the elements in these composite materials take a longer time to breakdown or cannot be broken down at all, in which case they would be disposed of in ways that would release harmful toxins directly into the surrounding atmosphere.”

Besides PVC, other components also have their share of unfriendly traits. According to Stan Holt, business development manager North America, Continental Grafix USA, Inc., polyurethanes, duroplastes, and polyimides cannot be recycled. Plasticizers such as benzoates and phthalates can be toxic and dangerous for health and the environment.

“Heavy metal contaminants such as lead and barium pose a health risk if ingested, making them of particular concern when printing magnets that may be touched or handled by children,” explains Jim Cirigliano, marketing manager, Magnum Magnetics Corporation.

Halogens—fluorine, chlorine, bromine, and iodine—are dangerous, particularly during disposal. “If a halogenated plastic is incinerated, the halogen is freed from the plastic structure. During the incineration process, halogens, which are highly reactive, react with any available water to form very strong acids like HCI and HF. To prevent these byproducts from going into the atmosphere, the incineration stack must have special scrubbers that limit halogen release and also require certain chemicals to neutralize the material. These chemicals can then become hazardous waste,” says Mandy Hulke, product development engineer, 3M Commercial Solutions.

Placing Substitutions
In the absence of non eco-friendly components, something generally needs to be substituted. These alternatives are greener in a number of ways. Unfortunately, many of them are kept under wraps, a secret sauce if you will. Most vendors won’t allude to if something is phthalate-free, what element is making the film flexible in its stead. Or if there isn’t any PVC, what components are creating a stable, durable media?

“With sustainability being such a major aspect of the industry, manufacturers are a bit reluctant to reveal what they are doing to go green. Sustainability is not easy and at times can be expensive, so if you have a formula that allows you to achieve this effectively, it really is a competitive advantage,” explains Jason Yard, marketing manager, Mactac Distributor Products.

“As of now, there is not one common substitute in the industry for these chemicals. They are ubiquitous in the industry because of their high performance, availability, and cost,” says Hulke.

Some known solutions include recycled polyester. “Polypropylene or polyester are common substitutes for PVC because they have the same or better performance characteristics. In most cases, they are also recyclable,” shares Clay Reierson, project manager, Xcel Products, Inc.

Dickson Coatings’ EverGreen fabrics consist of polyester yarns and water-based coatings, so they are free of PVC, phthalates, formaldehyde, phosphate, and glycol-ether. According Gautier Peers, territory sales manager, Dickson Coatings USA, this makes them non-toxic and environmentally friendly, never containing substances that are harmful to health by contact or inhalation.

Pacific Coast Fabrics’ Deko-Green(FR) is made up of 100 recycled polyester filament, which consists of soda bottles.

“Using recycled polyester in the production of woven polyester greatly reduces the amount of virgin petroleum that goes into a fabric,” suggests Tufts.

In lieu of PVC, there is also urethane film. “Urethane films contain no halogens, phthalates, PVC, or VOCs. Because urethane is inherently conformable, it requires no plasticizers to maintain its flexibility. Additionally, urethane films can be recycled using chemical and mechanical means,” explains Chris Hagen, application specialist/graphic films, Argotec LLC.

Natural AdCampaign promotes 100 percent natural products, meaning nothing has been substituted because there is no need—there is no oil or other synthetics used in the manufacture. 100 percent natural, the products are made from jute and cotton, sustainable raw materials.

Paper-based substrates used in place of plastic board are another option. “Substrates made from natural material such as wood pulp and paper are able to be recycled easier than composites, while being naturally biodegradable at the end of the product life cycle,” explains Nole.

Tony Lampariello, national rigid media manager, Agfa Graphics, agrees—explaining in addition to paper-based boards, other substitutions include honeycomb core materials or fluted paperboards.

“Many fiber alternatives are recyclable. Those that aren’t may be safely incinerated and will breakdown if landfilled with no harmful substances left behind,” says Paul Ciccone, VP research and development, Monadnock Paper Mills, Inc.

Another alternative to MDF, particle board, and non-renewable rigid or foam-filled plastic sheeting are natural based fiber boards with a kraft core. Xanita Print consists of a recycled kraft core sandwiched between printable white kraft liners. The high-crush strength kraft core is manufactured from post-consumer recycled Kraft and sugar cane bagasse waste.

Keeping Up Appearances
While substitutions may make media more sustainable, other characteristics must be kept in mind. The substrate needs to perform at the level its less eco-friendly counterpart does. This means intended print quality, ink compatibility, and reliability all need to be met. The goal is for a green product to still have the same printing capabilities, according to Matt Meyer, marketing coordinator, Plastiprint Sales Company.

“Research and development (R&D) teams are always reviewing chemical formulations and looking to utilize non-harmful chemicals into their products. This can be daunting task since many chemicals and elements are needed in order to make treatments, ink receptive top coatings, and/or fire retardant formulations,” admits Eric Tischer, president, Verseidag US.

Lily Hunter, product manager, textiles and consumables, Roland DGA Corporation, says the effectiveness of greener replacement components is evaluated during the product’s R&D phase. “It’s a matter of qualifying the raw materials, finding the right combination, making sure the product has desired qualities, and testing for printability and durability. It basically comes down to trial and error. It can take years for the media manufacturer to find all the right materials and components while still keeping the end product affordable,” she continues.

There are benefits beyond sustainability. Regarding PVC-free products, specifically fabric, Peers says that it is lighter, transport is cheaper, and installation is easier. In addition, the material projects a more appealing, natural look and is glare free.

Hagen points out that urethane film is highly conformable and extremely weatherable, standing up to UV radiation, abrasion, and chemicals—making it ideal for automotive wraps and other outdoor applications.

Paper-based substrates have their share of rewards. “There have been tremendous improvements in the durability of fiber-based substrates that satisfy the performance requirements of many commercial applications,” shares Ciccone.

Nole says that those with wood pulp cores offer a smoother, cleaner print surface with little to no static in flatbed printing.

With finishing in mind, “many of the fiber-based products are also easily formed or cut, and can be used for short-term point of purchase displays,” agrees Marty Davis, director, wide format and graphics, Mac Papers.

Despite many of these replacement elements and/or chemicals meeting demand, there are disadvantages.

“Application is the most important item. Clearly a PVC-free mesh while suitable for short-term outdoor use will not withstand weather conditions as well as the PVC-coated version when looking for long-term installation,” admits Joseph M. Rooney, North American sales manager, Heytex.

“We’ve found that some of the greener options do not hold up as well in outdoor applications due to their biodegradable and natural properties,” explains Nole.

According to Yard, “sometimes these materials do not last as long outdoors because the chemicals used will break down, turn yellow, or fade quicker than a traditional PVC.”

Ink compatibility is also an issue. “Not all inks stick to polypropylene or polyester unless the surface is top coated—which adds an additional cost on top of higher priced polypropylene and polyester resins,” shares Reierson.

Subbing In
Each eco-friendly product differs in composition. While most may be free from PVC, oil, petroleum, halogens, phthalates, or VOCs, replacement components vary by manufacturer. It is up to the print provider to enact their due diligence when it comes to confirming whether the media is in fact green and can perform adequately.

Click here to view the Considering Sustainability Target Chart – an all-inclusive information resource!

May2016, Digital Output

Behind the Scenes

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Behind the Scenes

By Melissa Donovan

RIPs are what drive a shop behind the scenes. Integral for many reasons, whether it be controlling color or ensuring that large files are properly rasterized, print service providers (PSPs) are certainly in their debt. While a RIP may often be an afterthought—purchased as a bundle with the printer—as production gets hopping, it doesn’t take long to realize just how important the right RIP is. We profile PSPs and their RIP experiences below.

Ease in Color
The signage and wayfinding department of the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) has been in existence since the service began in 1892. Today’s iteration, which includes large format printers and vinyl cutters, was implemented in 2000.

A four-person team serves as one of four in-house print production divisions for the CTA. With on demand large format printing, die cutting, lamination, vinyl cutting, and mounting services it designs and fabricates most of the wayfinding signage and maps found throughout Chicago, IL at rail stations and bus shelters.

Victor A. Ramirez, coordinator of graphics production, signage and wayfinding department, CTA, says color management is essential to the transit system, which relies on color for wayfinding and direction. “Digital prints need to match existing permanent signs in stations and bus stops.”

To control color, the shop has long been a supporter of Onyx Graphics, Inc. About 12 years ago it purchased ONYX PosterShop to drive its Mutoh America, Inc. Rockhopper printer. Today, ONYX Thrive and ONYX 11 are run on HP Inc. Latex 360, HP Designjet L25500, and HP Designjet Z6100 42- and 60-inch printers in a 1,200 square foot work space.

A number of features found in the ONYX RIP portfolio won over Ramirez. First and foremost, the timely support. Anytime there’s a production issue he’s emailed the support team and has a solution in a few hours. The Onyx team also helped the department configure its entire workflow and color control the printers. In addition, Ramirez leverages distributor resources like Advantage Sign & Graphic Solutions to learn more about color management and calibration at Onyx workshops.

Besides support, efficiency is also a factor. The processing speed of ONYX Thrive combined with the quick warm up features of the HP Latex 360 substantially minimizes waiting time, according to Ramirez. Other notable features include ease of use in editing profiles and a mini thumbnail function that replaces guesswork if a RIPped document has rotated incorrectly.

The finishing portion of the workflow benefits as well. Using the built-in CUT-Server, jobs are print and cut simultaneously. “All the printers need to run on the same RIP to be compatible on the same workflow, since we push contour cutting to our Aristo, Gerber Technology, and Graphtec America, Inc. cutting devices,” explains Ramirez.

CTA prints a lot of maps detailing the city’s bus routes, stations, and neighborhoods served, as well as informational signage on temporary vinyl. The ONYX RIPs manage color for each application.

“The great thing about ONYX RIPs, if you know what color space you are using in Adobe Acrobat, Illustrator, Photoshop, or CorelDRAW there is no guessing. We get perfect colors all the time. We only calibrate when introducing a new media or changing printheads,” says Ramirez.

Onyx’s products are ideal for the work CTA’s signage and wayfinding department print on a daily basis. While easy to use, they allow flexibility in controlling color output.

Efficiency Goals
InkDOTS, based in Cypress, TX, offers graphic design, printing, and graphic installation of signs; banners; vehicle wraps; window graphics; stickers; canvas wraps; paper products like business cards, postcards, door hangers, and posters; and frames and stands.

The company was established in 2006 in the garage of Keith Nichols, owner, InkDOTS. 30 days after opening, he had three major customers that justified moving the fledging business into a 2,000 square foot space. Three years later it found itself in a 6,000 square foot facility with freeway visibility, a loading dock, and an outdoor storage/fenced area. Today it’s busting at the seams with five employees and as soon as its lease expires—five months from press time—it plans on finding another location in the 10,000 to 15,000 square foot range.

At the advent of the business, Nichols owned a Seiko printer—now part of OKI Data Americas. He hired someone to write four color profiles and then decided that it didn’t seem too difficult to do on his own with the right tools. About two years later, he purchased an X-Rite, Incorporated i1Pro to make his own color profiles and recently bought the automatic chart reader for i1 to further manage color.

On the RIP side, InkDOTS is outfitted with SA International’s (SAi’s) FlexiSIGN. “It’s very intuitive. I am a mechanically minded person and the interface makes complete sense to me. It does print and print/cut, so it gives us the best of both worlds. While simple, it is also very powerful and capable of doing more than we currently need,” explains Nichols.

The PSP recently added HP Scitex FB500 and FB750 printers complemented by two Colex Industries CNC cutters. While not undertaking any heavy-duty routing projects, most jobs use a knife blade on Sintra or foamboard.

With the addition of the cutters, InkDOTS constantly looks for ways to speed up the front end of the process, especially in regards to quickly setting up job files. FlexiSIGN helps with this.

The HP Scitex FB500 and FB750 are both networked to the SAi RIP, in addition to the two Colex cutters. InkDOTS also has 64- and 72-inch Seiko printers in house, both are USB printers and stay close to the RIP station so they remain on the same network as well. “SAi makes it easy to set up printers and cutters on the network. A lot of people have technicians that need to come in and do it, but we learned how to a long time ago and it’s very simple. When we upgraded to the HP Scitex FB750 for example, we needed to download the driver to the RIP and it was quick and easy,” says Nichols.

When it comes to color profiles, InkDOTS keeps it straightforward. It works with four main substrates—banner, photo paper, perforated window, and vinyl and relies on a single brand/model for each one. For example, for any job that is not a vehicle wrap and requires a vinyl, it uses Arlon Graphics, LLC DPF 4570GTX, a 4-mil calendared glossy vinyl. This Arlon media has a specific profile written for it and a test file is stored away with a picture and color swatch for easy comparison.

With the i1Pro and FlexiSIGN combined, InkDOTS is comfortable with its color profiles. And short of media being added due to a discontinued line, there is no need to calibrate for every job. This freedom allows the PSP to continue its focus on efficiency.

Vast Printer Portfolio
With a global presence, Graphic Systems, Inc. offers design, printing, installation, and fulfillment services for recognized retailers and brands like Best Buy, Select Comfort, Sunglass Hut, and Williams Sonoma. A team of over 90 staff members works out of a 58,000 square foot facility located in Minneapolis, MN.

The company began in 1965 and has since evolved into a “world-class provider of photographic and digital printing by investing in our experienced creative team and the industry’s leading technology,” according to Nik Prenevost, technology manager, Graphic Systems.

Part of its commitment is due to its continued use of Caldera’s RIP and workflow products. The PSP implemented the Caldera GrandRIP+ in 2006 when it purchased its first Durst Image Technology US LLC Rho 160. “We were looking for a solid RIP solution that offered fast processing as well as great color control,” shares Prenevost.

Today it uses Caldera’s InkPerformer and Print Standard Verifier tools in addition to the GrandRIP+. Part of the allure of Caldera’s portfolio is that it offers compatibility with a range of printers. In addition to the Rho 160, Graphic Systems also owns a Rho 1000, Rho 900, Rho 800, Rho 512, two Rho 500s, a Fujifilm Graphic Systems Acuity LED 1600, Inca Onset X1, two Epson Stylus Pro GS6000s, an Epson Stylus Pro 9900, and four Durst Lambdas. All of the printers are run on Caldera.

Graphic Systems produces point of purchase/point of sale for retail on a daily basis. These are demanding color situations and brand color repeatability is required often. While the Caldera RIP handles all of the company’s color management, sometimes customers need more specific color standards, which Prenevost says are tweaked using custom lab color charts and profiles. This is because of the challenges in matching spot colors and profiles across different substrates and printers.

“When researching RIPs we required a single solution for all of our needs. Caldera exceeds that by offering fast processing and automation options. The speed of the APPE engine along with EasyMEDIA for profile creation is what makes the Caldera RIP a fit for us. It works well in our high-volume environment,” explains Prenevost.

Nesting Ventures
Based in Witham, Essex, U.K., Venture Banners began in January 2009 as a purchasing service that outsourced print. In 2012, it opened its own large format print facility servicing the trade. Banners are a large part of the PSP’s offerings and need to be output quickly so a job that consists of multiple pieces can be ready all at the same time. Combine this with the need to provide competitive pricing with room for markup and the trade printer is constantly looking for ways to save time and cut costs.

One way to manage the materials run on its EFI VUTEk GS3250 printers is to make the most of the time on press. Andy Webb, RIP manager, Venture Banners, says it takes up to 30 minutes for two men and a forklift to change some media rolls. This idles the press, creating downtime.

“We don’t want to waste any material, but we also want to make the most of the time and put everything that’s available on it before we change it out again,” he adds.

To remedy this, Venture Banners nests a lot of its jobs. Originally, its RIP had a difficult time handling some of the larger files. Sometimes the RIP would run overnight and in the morning the staff would come in to find that the large file hadn’t processed at all and then it would take two to three attempts to process it.

As business grew, the PSP knew it had to change something. One of its EFI VUTEk GS3250 printers was under EFI warranty, so it automatically upgraded to the EFI Fiery proServer 6 with FAST RIP technology. The difference between the old RIP and the new was night and day.

According Webb, the files RIP much faster, with fewer issues like dropping a banner out in a nested file. Previously large format banners took an hour to process, now it takes six minutes. As soon as the benefits were realized, Venture Banner immediately upgraded its second EFI VUTEk GS3250 to EFI Fiery proServer 6 as well.

Rely on RIPs
For some PSPs it’s all about color management, for others it’s a devotion to increasing efficiency. Features found in RIPs help achieve this, whether it’s the ability to run multiple devices from different hardware vendors or a solution that is part of a true end-to-end automated workflow. PSPs rely on RIPs to keep production running.

Click here to view A Driving Force Target Chart – an all-inclusive information resource!

May2016, Digital Output

Have it All with Wholesale Print

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Have it All with Wholesale Print

By Courtney Saba

Many companies pride themselves on versatility. For smaller print service providers (PSPs), it’s not always possible to do everything. Sometimes a PSP encounters a job that cannot be completed due to lack of capacity, projects requiring additional equipment, or skills have not yet been mastered.

Instead of turning the job away, PSPs have the option of partnering with a wholesaler to the trade. Located regionally or nationwide, these print organizations are equipped to handle almost anything. Not only do they maintain the quality and integrity of the job, they also strive to complete it quickly.

A Beneficial Option
There are many advantages in utilizing wholesale printers. The most beneficial aspect is creating more business and expanding sales opportunities.

“We give the customers the ability to both expand their in-house capacity of how much business they can handle, but also open up the number of possible items they can sell. Simply, more business and sales opportunities, providing more ways to make money,” explains Ryan Shacklett, president, Ultimax.

Why should a PSP reject jobs or contracts based on what it can produce in house? Jennifer L. Carter, director of business development and strategy, Georgia Printco, Inc., suggests PSPs are missing out by not taking advantage of available wholesalers. She recommends that when placing these jobs with wholesalers, the PSP can still service its customers knowing that a company is there to provide excellent products and service as an extension of the PSP’s brand.

Carter presents the example of fabric printing, citing it as a highly sought after commodity. When a PSP doesn’t have the resources to manufacture a product, this is the time to partner with a trusted wholesale provider.

“Trade printers allow PSPs to outsource and take advantage of the assets of a quality trade printer while focusing on their own core competency. This allows them to save on time and capital investment while keeping core competencies in house. This outsourcing strategy can lead to exponential growth because of the savings on time and resources in addition to the scale of products offered,” says a representative from 4over, Inc.

David R. Kim, CEO, Fly Digital Print, also touches on how working with a PSP is beneficial to the reseller as well, in regards to working in volume. A wholesaler has a lot more resources available when it comes to materials and therefore offers a much wider product line than most PSPs.

Kim claims that it wouldn’t make sense for a print provider to stock material and inventory it doesn’t sell very much of because inventory is expensive and does expire. Due to the volume produced and the volume of materials bought by Fly Digital Print, it can typically purchase at a lower price.

What to Expect
In the wholesaler and PSP relationship, a line of privacy and protection is respected on each end. The wholesale printer works as an extension of the print provider.

“All work and pricing is protected. Anything shipped directly to customers is shipped blindly, and our information is not represented anywhere on the package or packing slip. Ultimax’s trade-only printer division, Signobi, verifies and approves every customer that registers to ensure its not selling to end clients,” explains Shacklett.

Shacklett emphasizes that providers know and expect the company to stand behind its work. Ultimax realizes that its products represent a PSP’s business, causing the wholesaler to strive to provide the best quality.

4over conveys to PSPs that working with trade printers can greatly accelerate growth opportunity. Offering more products to clients and fast turnarounds from regional facilities increases customer confidence in on-time delivery. Delivery services, loyalty programs, and regular promotions lead to what is referred to as “perfecting your profits.”

With an extensive experience in working with PSPs, Georgia Printco’s Carter advises print providers to get to know their wholesalers and the reputations they carry. Understand the products and equipment used, the quality, and the manufacturing specifications. Carter states that PSPs should be knowledgeable about the wholesale printers chosen.

Fly Digital Print’s concerns are generally for quality and service. For quality, providers should inquire about machines, materials, and inks used.

“Fly Digital Print is committed to using only brand name materials and original manufacturers’ ink. This way the customers know exactly what to expect. Also, it creates color profiles for every material used because each material has different white points. This is a necessity for a well-known quality brand to maintain color consistency,” explains Kim.

Regarding service, Kim urges print providers and trade printers to establish a relationship with excellent communication. Communication keeps the customer satisfied and is helpful for all involved. It allows business and profits to increase, among other benefits, for both ends of the partnership.

Meet Wholesale Printers
A variety of trade printers offer insight about their companies and what qualifies each business as successful, including shipping practices and customer service.

4over
Among 14 operating locations, 4over’s headquarters resides in Glendale, CA. This company specializes in services including offset and digital printing, marketing products, large format, packaging and labels, booklets and catalogs, promotional products, as well as stationary and envelopes.

4over’s wide distribution network spans North America, enabling it to maintain a local presence across the U.S. and Canada. This asset, coupled with a consistency in quality and competitiveness on pricing, continues to keep 4over nimble and ahead of the curve.

Digital Print Solutions
Located in Kensington, MN, Digital Print Solutions is a wholesale large/grand format printing company for sign companies, advertising agencies, print shops, photographers, and other resellers. The company ships anywhere in the U.S, as well as internationally, and ships blind. It offers one to three day shipping to 90 percent of the U.S.

Some of its products include banners, vinyl decals, flat signs, flags, specialty products, fabric table covers, strands/retractors, translucent products, and canvas wall art. Printers found in the facility include Epson, HP Inc., and Mimaki USA, Inc. Common media brands used are 3M Commercial Solutions, Avery Dennison Graphics Solutions, Orafol Americas, and Ultraflex Systems, Inc.

It encourages PSPs to give them a call before turning customers away. Digital Print Solutions carries an array of materials, boasts a friendly customer service staff, and has the ability to print vinyl and mesh banners up to 16×50 feet without seams, with hems and grommets included.

Fly Digital Print
Based in El Monte, CA, this one location houses 15 employees and has the ability to ship nationwide, as well as to Canada. Fly Digital Print specializes in indoor and outdoor wide format printed signs and displays. It uses HP latex and UV printers, branded media, and original HP inks for quality and consistency.

Fly Digital Print’s quality and service sets it apart from the competition. The company offers prices comparable to vendors that don’t commit to the same level of quality and service.

Georgia Printco
Lakeland, GA is home to Georgia Printco’s one location, which totals 35,000 square feet with 69 employees. Goods and services offered include specialized printing on most substrates using large and grand format digital printing machines, along with dye-sublimation equipment for printing textiles. Georgia Printco’s service area is worldwide.

Equipment used includes machines manufactured by EFI—one five-meter roll-to-roll UV printer, two three-meter roll-to-roll UV printers, two three-meter hybrid printers, and two three-meter textile printers. It also uses a Roland DGA Corporation 60-inch large format printer. Other equipment includes two cutting systems, three laminators, three automatic grommet machines, and five sewing machines. Georgia Printco works with ink from 3M, EFI, and PrinterEvolution’s AquaSub 33. The company stocks 250 different product types to reduce turnaround times.

Georgia Printco’s state-of-the-art equipment offers high resolutions and high speeds. It offers 24-hour factory support on every machine. 15 sales representatives are available anytime. Its staff is courteous and knowledgeable.

ImagineThis
Specializing in “going large,” ImagineThis is a premiere large format and out-of-home digital print shop. Looking for large quantity orders or the largest outdoor graphics, the company offers customers high quality and quick turnaround at competitive pricing. For example, it offers ten 18×24-inch plastic yard signs printed double sided for $37.

Based out of Massillon, OH, ImagineThis creates building wraps, fleet graphics, transit graphics, vinyl and mesh banners, billboards, large trade show graphics, outdoor advertising, vehicle wraps, backlit signs, and out-of-home signage. Work is completed on equipment from EFI, Epson, HP, and Miller Weldmaster.

JW Media
Headquartered in Las Vegas, NV, JW Media is an industry leader in print order fulfillment for both small and large resellers. It offers same and next day shipping options depending on the urgency of an order. A dedicated staff is trained to help customers maximize profits with low pricing not available to the general public. Some of the print services offered at JW Media include flags, banners, stickers, posters, window perforations, custom made fabric, rigid signs, banner stands, and magnets.

Signs365
Residing in Shelby, MI, Signs365 is known for its abundance of graphic services. It offers 24 hour standard production time, guaranteed rush delivery, and overnight delivery anywhere in the U.S. According to the company, it only employs state-of-the-art technology. Equipment utilized includes HP Scitex FB10000 Industrial Presses and HP Latex 3000 Printers.

Ultimax
Located in Denver, CO, Ultimax’s Signobi is successful with one location and ten employees. Goods and services include commodity to specialized materials and substrates, specializing in cost-effectively offering custom and contour cutting. Additionally it provides clear materials and white ink printing and ships nationwide. Ultimax utilizes UV printing for all rigid substrates, and eco-solvent for most decals. What sets it apart from the competition is product offering, contour cutting, customer service, and flexibility.

The Trade
Trade printers and print providers form a relationship to benefit each other. When a job isn’t practical for a PSP, it turns to its wholesaler for help instead of rejecting a customer. With an increase of business and an expansion of sales opportunities, PSPs and wholesalers continue to reap the benefits from a simple peer relationship.

May2016, Digital Output

Software Solutions for Wraps

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Software Solutions for Wraps

By Courtney Saba

Vehicle wraps aren’t easy. Designing to a car’s exact measurements, taking into consideration curve, and overlapping panels so text lines up properly are just some of the challenges.

Software solutions including templates, design programs, and clip art minimize error and costly rework. Even the most experienced vehicle wrapper relies on these tools.

Templates are mostly utilized for achieving accurate measurements. A print service provider (PSP) has the ability to build its own template; however, this option risks more user errors throughout the design process. Templates are readily available in an abundance of vehicle models and years.

Design programs allow PSPs to create high-quality output with a variety of tools—all in one graphic solution. Features like mirroring graphics or slicing an image down the middle are helpful. These solutions make it easy for less experienced designers to pick up the trade.

Clip art collections are created with a vehicle wrap in mind, so scale and size are predetermined in many cases. This solution leaves little room for error and allows the customer to have a better idea of the final product beforehand.

Beneficial Solutions
Wrap software benefits print providers by saving time and money, but also by enhancing the creative and design process.

For example, drawing your own template takes up valuable time that can be used on the design portion of the job. In some cases, it can take an experienced artist two to four hours to create a vector template.

Larry Lopez, owner, Art Station Vehicle Templates, says he has had customers who would spend time drawing their template only to order another from him because their customer brought in a completely different vehicle. “Having the vehicle templates available at your fingertips is half of the battle,” he says. “Another thing that can keep you awake at night is did you take the correct measurements? Do you have the drawing at the right scale?”

Design programs adapt seamlessly to a provider’s workflow, design space, and productivity. PSPs benefit from the high quality and versatility within a design program.

“Any print shop producing wraps should be using an application specifically optimized for the kind of work they do. If you look at the series of steps and tasks that need to be completed for just a single car wrap job, you’ll quickly see that getting the job done right by hand will cost print shops three very important things—time, money, and patience,” notes Gérard Métrailler, VP of products, graphics and productivity, Corel Corporation.

Another form of wrap software is clip art. According to Dave Dorsey, owner, Aurora Graphics, no print shop can produce its own wide format digital art for vehicle wraps for the price it can be purchased.

“In other words it might take two and a half weeks to produce a killer looking, seamless camo with no repeats. Two and a half weeks equals 12 days at eight hours a day. That is a total of 96 hours. If that same artwork can be purchased for $95 and downloaded for immediate output, you can see how purchasing artwork is a much smarter choice,” explains Dorsey.

He adds that artwork can be shown and approved by the client prior to creating anything or spending any money, so there is no wasted effort or profit that could be rejected by the client. The artwork can even be sold to the customer prior to purchasing it.

Templates, Design Programs, and Clip Art
Here, companies provide a look at their vehicle wrap software.

Action Illustrated
Action Illustrated offers a number of volumes of vector artwork that can be used for vehicle wraps. For example, its Action Graphics vector artwork collection contains over 1,200 vectored EPS images for $399. It includes flame, tribal, and other accent art.

Art Station Vehicle Templates
According to Art Station Vehicle Templates, all vehicle wrap designers need some form of a vehicle template. A business can create its own or buy a template ready to use. There are two different formats—raster and vector. Art Station Vehicle Templates specializes in vector format templates.

“Our vector templates are easy to use in both a drawing and raster program. They are completely editable and don’t take up too much hard disk space. The entire collection—which goes back 12 years and contains 7,000 templates—is small enough to download straight to your computer. We have all the popular vehicles that are most often wrapped. No one has every vehicle, but more than likely the one you will need is in our collection,” suggests Lopez.

Each template includes all five sides of a vehicle and as much detail as possible. Art Station Vehicle Templates constantly adds to its collection and sends quarterly updates to its customers.

Aurora Graphics
On the other end of the spectrum, Aurora Graphics specializes in clip or digital art. Many vinyl shops simply don’t have the time or talent necessary for the high-quality artwork that is demanded in today’s competitive market, explains Dorsey. Digital art is an entirely digital design of a completed object, background, or design element. “It’s not something you would add to a layout, it is the layout,” he says.
At Aurora Graphics, backgrounds and partials are available in large scales so there are no challenges printing them at full-life scale while keeping the resolution and integrity of the artwork intact.

CADlink Technology Corp.
The company offers two versions of its vehicle template library, Pro Vehicle Outlines (PVO) 2016 Pro Version and PVO 2016 Online Version. The PVO 2016 Online Version includes over 9,860 vehicle and specialty templates including model years from 1994 to 2016. New vehicles are added on a regular basis and online access is 24/7.

The PVO 2016 Pro Version contains the same amount of templates and model years, but is shipped as a complete DVD library that includes a 160-page template reference book, special yearly upgrade pricing, and a 12 month online subscription.

Corel
Corel offers CorelDRAW Graphics Suite X8 as a complete graphics design solution with vector illustration and layout, photo editing, tracing, and font management. The product also allows for an extensive collection of fonts, clip art, and vehicle templates.

Several features make CorelDRAW Graphics Suite X8 stand out. For example, it supports huge page sizes, which allows users to work at a 1:1 ratio even on enormous projects—ideal for large format jobs like vehicle wraps. The company also offers special tools for node editing, font management and selection, and a redesigned knife tool that can quickly create overlaps and gaps for applying physical media. CorelDRAW integrates with color palettes from select hardware vendors to offer superior color accuracy across all jobs.

Wrap Software
Print providers look to wrap software to save time and money. Building one’s own measurements risks user error. Some choose to utilize templates, design programs, or clip art—all of which are useful tools for the design process. Each company works with a different solution to match its workflow and specific operation methods.

May2016, Digital Output

A One Man Show

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A One Man Show

By Melissa Donovan

Wall murals are used in many environments—in or out of the home—to change up appearances. The key to a successful installation and satisfied client is understanding where the graphic will be adhered to and how long it intends to be in place. For applications that require more ease of removability, a media with less tack is necessary. When a more permanent situation is the end game, a higher tack product is the choice.

From Decals to More
401 Graphics, based out of Cumberland, RI, began in 2006. At the time, Kevin Costic, owner/operator, 401 Graphics, was looking for decals for members of his car club. Instead of buying them, he made his own and sold locally and online. By the end of 2009, online sales had grown and remained significant enough that 401 Graphics became a full-time business. This allowed for investing in a Graphtec America, Inc. vinyl cutter, Mutoh America, Inc. printer, GBC laminator, and a bucket truck.

Currently, the print shop consists of one employee—Costic—and sometimes his wife when necessary. He operates out of a 1,000 square foot space, serving all of RI, Southern MA, and Eastern CT. Services offered include full-color vinyl graphics and signage, vehicle lettering and wraps, storefront signage, banners, window graphics, wall murals, and custom apparel. These are mainly for local businesses, but sometimes Costic takes on in-home jobs like graphics for a Super Mario Brothers-themed bedroom, a wall graphic resembling brick for a kitchen wall, or wrapping an old refrigerator to look like stainless steel. 401 Graphics also offers wholesale printing and installation services to other sign shops in the area.

Familiarity Breeds New Service
About 20 percent of the work Costic produces is considered wall murals, an application he says is growing. Most of these jobs are for offices. His first wall mural was around 2011, when a local travel agency requested a world map graphic for its wall.

“I was already familiar with applying vinyl to other types of substrates, so this was an easy step. My goal was to give the customer a high-quality wall mural, made of high-quality vinyl that was also removable,” explains Costic.

Citing removability as an essential consideration when choosing the correct wall media, Costic explains that “in most cases the business owner is leasing the building they are in, therefore the vinyl must be removable without causing damage to the wall, but at the same time have enough tack to not fall off the wall or develop edge curling.” To achieve this, Costic regularly works with Orafol Americas Orajet 3628 Wall Art Digital Low-Tack Wall and Window Graphics Digital Media combined with Oraguard 210 PVC Laminating Film, a matte laminate.

For clients who own buildings and are less likely to remove the wall mural or be overly concerned about causing damage to the wall, Costic favors Orajet 3621 Soft Calendered PVC Digital Media. This features a water-based removable adhesive, providing a bit more tack than the Orajet 3628.

When it comes to printing, 401 Graphics uses its Mutoh ValueJet 1204 eco-solvent printer because it is reliable and its Wave Printing Technology eliminates banding in prints. “Wall murals are one of the few types of vinyl graphics that people stand close to, therefore having a flawless print is essential,” says Costic.

Costic handles install for customers. Since most are so large, and created in multiple panels, he says it’s important that an experienced installer handles them. Especially since they must be aligned to give the allusion of one large, single graphic.

Securing a Large Job
401 Graphics recently completed a wall mural job for repeat client Alliance Security. For this particular project, Alliance Security was looking for clean, professional wall graphics and murals for office rooms and hallways throughout their building.

Alliance Security owns the building, so Costic relied on Orajet 3621. To date, about 600 square feet of material has been turned into wall graphics and murals for this client. Graphics were created using the Mutoh ValueJet 1204. The length of the job varied, with the larger murals taking about three days from submittal to install.

This specific job for Alliance Security was the largest wall mural in square footage that 401 Graphics has handled. Since its completion, Costic continues to get wall mural requests from the company as it expands into more offices in its building.

Right Media for the Job
Print providers who recognize the nuances between media products are poised to offer customers the best choice when it comes to wall murals. 401 Graphics proves this with its knowledge and experience.

May2016, Digital Output

What to See

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What to See

By Digital Output staff

This year’s International Sign Association (ISA) Sign Expo is held April 20 to 23 in Orlando, FL at the Orange County Convention Center, South Building. Targeting custom/traditional sign companies, national sign companies, corporate sign buyers, printers, designers/specifiers, and installers/technical professionals, the sold out show offers a number of ways to learn about industry goings on.

On the exhibit floor, visit the Lounge and Learn section in booth 1295 and relax while getting more information on key topics like sign engineering, content marketing, and ways to profit in vehicle wrapping. At the Dynamic Digital Park, in booth 101, learn how to market digital signage and discover the latest in LED solutions.

Make sure to stay at the show till the very end! Mingle with peers the last hour of every day at Last Hour Happy Hour. Bars are set up throughout the show floor for attendees and exhibitors to enjoy a beer on ISA.

Here we’ve included a brief synopsis on some of the vendors exhibiting this year. Learn about even more companies, be sure to pick up the April issue on the show floor, which also includes a preview of the show.

Adams Magnetic Products, booth 2922, offers MAGbond Magnet Receptive Canvas. It is a magnet receptive sheet that delivers an art-quality print onto a canvas display. That means museum-quality displays can be installed and updated in minutes without the expense of professional installers. MAGBond Canvas can work with any magnetic display system—including the Adams’ MAGBond Magnet Media System. The sheet is available in widths up to 53 inches and is approved for use with HP, Mimaki, and Ricoh printers.

Agfa Graphics, booth 1335, shows new versions, with increased functionality, of the Jeti Tauro and the Jeti Mira UV inkjet printers. The Jeti Mira, a 105.9-inch true flatbed printer featuring a moving gantry, includes a new roll-to-roll option, while the Jeti Tauro, a 2.5-meter wide UV hybrid printer designed to withstand very high workloads, is shown with a new automatic board feeder.

AkzoNobel Sign Finishes, booth 1325, leads the industry with Grip-Gard systems. The Grip-Gard BC and EFx-LV lines utilize the best in pigment color technology for long lasting, beautiful finishes. AkzoNobel Sign Finishes is dedicated to the full-service sign shop offering a complete basecoat, single stage, and translucent coatings solutions.

Arlon, booth 935, debuts its new cast digital wrap film, DPF 6100XLP, which features a new low profile, air egress liner. DPF 6100XLP offers a low initial tack allowing for a speedy installation while ensuring a smooth paint-like finish. It is recommended for full and partial vehicle and fleet wraps providing superior conformability around rivets, curves, contours, and channels.

Avery Dennison Graphics Solutions, booth 284, introduces three new products. Avery Dennison Transparent Colored Overlaminates for Conform Chrome are available in three distinct colors—orange, green, and purple—to combine with the five existing Conform Chrome colors for new creative color possibilities. When these cast overlaminates are paired with Conform Chrome, they offer a multi-layer functionality that protects the chrome film from being scratched or damaged.

AXYZ International, booth 2035, demonstrates the Trident, an innovative hybrid CNC cutting solution. A unique triple-head system consisting of a twin-knife head and a heavy-duty routing spindle allows processing of almost any sheet material from vinyl, leather, gasket, and foam to wood, acrylic, and non-ferrous metals up to six inches thick. Servo motors and helical rack and pinion drive systems guarantee fast and precise cutting while a fully automatic tool changer further optimizes productivity.

Canon Solutions America, booth 2011, features some of its leading large format printing solutions that continue to redefine the industry. Guests can see firsthand the diversity of the Canon and Océ machines, and the equally impressive range of potential money-making applications associated with the products. In particular, visitors can see the recently launched Océ Arizona 1280 GT flatbed printer, along with the Océ ColorWave 700 and 910 printing systems.

Cyrious Software, booth 1714, features new tools for Cyrious Control. Web Payments enables users to let customers securely pay invoices online or from a mobile device. Invoices are emailed directly from Control with a Pay Now link. Then, successful payments are recorded in real-time in Control, removing the need for manual payment entry. Email notifications are automatically sent to key contacts making them aware of newly posted or failed payments.

DreamScape, booth 2815, displays Satara Steel, which combines a new brushed steel embossed surface along with a proprietary silver and pearl coating. The result is a more subdued, yet highly sophisticated and luxurious, metallic sheen. Satara Steel looks and feels like fabric—but it is in fact a fully functional commercial vinyl. This product targets designers, architects, and print providers who cater to hospitality and commercial interior décor, and is compatible with all major inkjet technologies.

E.L. Hatton Sales Co., booth 954, exhibits new Banner Ups TexTape, a double-sided adhesive hemming tape that sticks to textile banner media. Banner printers use TexTape to hem textile banners and flags instantly in house without sewing. It creates a clean crisp edge hem or pole pocket on any textile banner or flag and is super-strong for indoor and outdoor UV durability. No sewing equipment or labor required. Just peel, stick, and fold hem. Available in 3/8- and ¾-inch widths. Distributor opportunities are available.

EFI, booth 2507, premieres the EFI Midmarket Productivity Suite, Superwide Format Edition, a certified, end-to-end workflow for digital print sign and display graphics manufacturers. New printers on display include the EFI Matan Quantum LXr LED roll-to-roll printer, the EFI VUTEk FabriVU 340 printer for fabric soft signage display applications, the EFI VUTEk LX3 Pro hybrid roll/flatbed LED printer, and the EFI H1625-SD hybrid printer for thermoformable graphic production.

Encore Products, booth 1853, launches Brushed Aluminum to the EnCore Design Boards Family. With its dramatic visual appeal, this product’s potential is limitless. Catch the light, enhance the image, and create a stunning metallic look. Encore Brushed Aluminum is an easy and faster to cut, printable surface board available in 3/16-inch thickness.

Esko, booth 923, displays the Kongsberg C, a fully featured superwide 126-inch digital finishing system. A powerful, rigid, carbon-composite traverse technology assures exceptional precision and speed. The Kongsberg C offers a 3kW continuous duty high-performance milling unit. One Kongsberg C fits all production needs—rolls, sheets, corrugated, and milling.

Fisher Textiles, booth 2335, encourages attendees to stand out from the competition with attention-grabbing floor graphics printed on Fisher’s Rebound printable carpet. Rebound features an anti-skid rubber backing and doesn’t hold a form when pressure is applied. Uses include short-term carpet for events, trade show floor graphics, point of purchase displays, bar mats, and floor mats. Compatible with dye-sublimation transfer and UV-curable printers, it is FR and meets 16 CFR Part 1630, required by the Consumer Product Safety Commission for carpet materials.

GoVivid, a Rowmark division, booth 2545, offers a selection of small format UV LED printers that produce easy-to-execute results, as creative as your mind can imagine. The company’s UV LED printers are uncomplicated and easy to use so you can focus on exciting and profitable projects. GoVivid provides everything from fixtures, inks, and print media to all the sign making extras required. INFO# 249
HP, booths 1957 and 1971, showcases its third-generation HP Latex portfolio, featuring the 126-inch HP Latex 3500 Printer, ideal for high-volume industrial production, as well as the HP Latex 300 Printer series, helping more print providers take advantage of the benefits of HP Latex Printing Technology. Redefining technical production as one of the fastest large format monochrome and color printers on the market, the flagship HP PageWide XL 8000 Printer is also demonstrated.

Inkjet Technology Inc., booth 501, unveils the TX 2512 LED Flatbed Printer, which includes the latest energy efficient LED lamp technology for UV curing. It features print speeds of 415 square feet per hour with grayscale variable drop high-resolution Ricoh Gen5 printheads. The company also introduces the TX 3200 DS grand format roll-to-roll direct-to-fabric textile printer. At 3.2 meters, the unit includes an advanced IR heating system for sublimation fixation without the need for an external calendar heat press.

Johnson Plastics, a Rowmark Company, booth 2645, is a leading distributor of engravable and printable plastic sheet materials, sign frames, stand offs, mounting fixtures, and related accessories. It is headquartered in Minneapolis, MN with nine strategically located branch offices and distribution centers throughout the U.S.

Leister Technologies, booth 1461, demonstrates the Seamtek 36 welding machine. Seamtek 36 is a versatile hot air welder with three different welding stations and a tape delivery system. The machine allows users to weld overlaps, hems, and pole pockets at various widths. In addition to the stationary welder, Leister exhibits its economical automatic welders, the Uniplan E and Variant T1.

Master Magnetics, booth 2522, creates beautiful, easily interchangeable graphics with PrintMagnetVinyl and the FlexIRON magnetic graphic system. Print directly on flexible magnetic sheeting with PrintMagnetVinyl. Compatible with large format solvent, eco-solvent, UV, and latex inkjet printers, PrintMagnetVinyl delivers brilliant color and superior visual images to create high-impact point of purchase displays, vehicle graphics, and wayfinding signs. Layered with FlexIRON, a printable, magnetic-receptive material, PrintMagnetVinyl becomes an interchangeable graphic system for a variety of uses.

Miller Weldmaster, booth 1761, believes sign industry professionals deserve the most innovative machines that meet all of their finishing needs. The company offers some of the fastest and easiest seamers for banners, signs, and billboards. Its 112 Extreme has large production capacity for any size job, the T300 Extreme Edge is for all high-speed finishing needs, and the Digitran System is an all-in-one sewing and welding solution designed specifically for silicone edge graphics systems.

MultiCam, Inc., booth 525, hosts the first annual Sign Invitational. Ten of the best signmakers from across the globe come together to showcase their finest work done on MultiCam machines. In addition, MultiCam exhibits its versatile lineup of CNC routers and digital finishing systems designed for signmakers to easily transform ideas into reality.

Mutoh America, booth 959, exhibits the new VJ1938TX, a 75-inch high-production direct-to-textile printer. It provides outstanding performance at a competitive price with a staggered dual printhead design and print speeds up to 914 square feet per hour. Also on display is the VJ1638UH 64-inch UV LED hybrid printer with a staggered printhead design that provides high print speeds and dual UV lamps on both sides of the printheads. A hybrid, it prints on both rigid or roll substrates.

Novus Imaging, booth 2185, announces Ultra, the affordable, innovative, field upgradeable UV LED true flatbed printer. Ultra features advanced UV LED technology for low temperature curing at best-in-class speeds—up to 1,300 square feet per hour. Dynamic variable dot technology produces photorealistic grayscale images and auto masking saves hours of set-up time. Ultra is manufactured in the U.S.

Orbus Exhibit & Display Group, booth 1012, features a new, push-fit tension fabric display, Embrace. It is a sleek, collapsible display delivering style with minimal effort. Channel bars to hold push-fit fabric graphics slide easily onto the lightweight frame, and graphics attach quickly for a seamless display. Embrace is available in 16 sizes from tabletop to ten-foot wide backwalls.

Palram Americas, booth 2510, offers Palsun flat polycarbonate sheets and coil stock, which are UL listed and appear in the SAM manual and available in Sign-Grade White for LED backlit applications or Clear for glass-like transparency; the PALIGHT family of products, foamed PVC substrates ideal for digitally printing, which include Premium, EPS, Woodgrain, and Outdoor providing excellent ink adhesion, smooth surface, and high white point; and PALCLEAR, a transparent PVC sheet that offers water-like clarity and great ink adhesion.

Photo Tex Group Inc., booth 2441, shows a patented self-adhesive line of fabric that comes in three different versions to meet all the obstacles for an easy install with no time limits or special removal instructions. Photo Tex does not shrink, rip, or curl in any climate change and is now Class 1 fire rated. New to the portfolio, the GlassADhere line of micro-suction PP and PET window media. This media also comes in three versions—White, Frost, and Optical Clear for first or second surface installs.

Piedmont Plastics, booth 817, is a distributor of plastic products, including a full line of graphics substrates. It carries an assortment of flexible/rigid media. Piedmont Plastics showcases acrylic, polycarbonate, SupraFLEX banner, AluPOLY ACM, pressure-sensitive media, overlaminates, mounting adhesives, foamboards, expanded PVC, paper and fine art media, PETG, canvas, wallcovering, and synthetic paper.

Roland DGA Corporation, booth 734, debuts the TrueVIS VG series wide format printer/cutters. Other products on display include the VersaUV LEF-300 UV flatbed printer, the SOLJET EJ-640 eco-solvent printer, the Texart XT-640 dye-sublimation printer, and CL!CK Content Creator online design application. Roland also demonstrates popular inkjets from its SOLJET, VersaCAMM, VersaEXPRESS, and VersaStudio families.

SA International (SAi), booth 2527, showcases its new sign and printmaking product. The new Flexi 12 includes a unique Web-based job approval tool that makes customer approvals quicker, and new banner and canvas finishing tools. The new mobile application for Flexi 12 gives business owners insights into production trends while on the go. Visit the booth to see live feature demonstrations and find out about locations for the 2016 FlexiLIVE Training Tour.

Sawgrass, booth 1722, a global leader in dye-sublimation and digital printing solutions, showcases its full portfolio. Show patrons can see the Virtuoso 25-inch eight-color HD product decorating system featuring SubliJet-HD Pro Photo XF inks in action, with live demonstrations taking place each day. This system is a must-see for anyone producing interior signage, fine art, professional photo items, textiles, personalized gifts, or promotional products.

Trotec Laser, booth 177, highlights its sophisticated vision registration software. Integrated with the company’s user-friendly laser workflow software, JobControl Vision cuts printed signs, displays, and point of sale materials to exact specifications. It recognizes distortions—linear, non-linear, or rotations—in the printed design by comparing registration marks on the pre-printed design to the target positions in the original cutting file, and adjusts the cutting path automatically and dynamically.

We hope to see you at the ISA Sign Expo this year. Please come see us in booth 2745 and pick up copies of our April and May issues.

May2016, Digital Output

Brother Announces Print+

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04.16.2026 Today, Brother International Corporation announced the launch of Print+, a new monthly subscription for printing supplies and support…