Vehicle Lettering and Graphics

Hedgemaster · #1 03-07-2011, 11:16 PM

I'm ready to have some vinyl graphics/lettering done on my truck.

Has anyone purchased from an "online" source?
Anyone you recommend, or have had bad experiences with?

At this time I only want to place info on the glass (back and both sides of the cap - maybe across the top of the windshield too).

I was thinking of having the back done by a local shop, using the full overlay type of vinyl that is "see thru", but the sides can be simple vinyl "lettering" and I thought I may be able to save some money by purchasing online and applying the side window lettering myself.

I haven't decided on a color for the sides if I just go with one color. It would be cool if the paint color could be matched, but I doubt that's going to happen. "White" shows up well on dark tint, but it can look "harsh", and honestly I think it will cheapen the look of my truck.

Does anyone have an opinion on the "chrome" lettering?

I run chrome wheels in the summer, and was thinking that chrome vinyl graphics on the side windows might look good.

What'cha think?

jymie · #2 03-07-2011, 11:37 PM

Lawn care business tips

Have you thought about going with door magnets for the painted parts of the doors? Maybe lettering on the cap windows portion of the vehicle?

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Hedgemaster · #3 03-07-2011, 11:58 PM

I don't really want to do magnetic signs. Since this is my daily driver, I guess it would be nice that I could take them off when I don't want them on there, but I'm pretty fussy about my paint, and the thought of a magnet rubbing against it sends shivers up my spine.

A good suggestion, but I figured I'd explain why I don't want to go that route at the moment.

jymie · #4 03-08-2011, 06:56 AM

For what it's worth, the magnets I use stay in one spot, in two years I see no damage to my paint at all. I once used the back window of a truck to advertise a website I once had with vinyl lettering. My only concern is does vinyl lettering come off the paint easily if you were to trade the truck in or need to sell the truck? On window surfaces a razor blade works but the paint surfaces may be different? Overtime, the vinyl lettering began to lose its attachment to my truck from weather and started looking like crap.

Hedgemaster · #5 03-08-2011, 04:59 PM

60 views and nobody has anything to say?

LOL, getting an opinion on this forum is like pulling teeth!
If I posted this on another forum I moderate, there would be ten pages of comments, suggestions, and several small fights would have started over something completely unrelated, resulting in temporary bans! Hahaha!

Here are my two main questions again:

1. Has anyone purchased (vinyl graphics) from an "online" source?

2. Does anyone have an opinion on the "chrome" lettering? (on dark tint window)

950thomas · #6 03-08-2011, 05:44 PM

I have final on all my trucks it comes off easy with a heat gun or blower dryer I think vinal looks more professional than magnets but that's my opinion

cleancutlawncare5382 · #7 03-08-2011, 06:09 PM

If you go vinyl don’t go with the cheapest offer. I had a tattoo shop do my truck last year, Figured vinyl was vinyl. ( not so ).

I park the truck in the same place everyday and the sun hits the same side. My once forest green logo is now light blue. Just a word to the wise.

Fisher · #8 03-08-2011, 06:31 PM

I am also curious about ordering my lettering online. Will be doing one truck for now and possibly wrapping another later would like it to match.

My opinion on the chrome is (from what I've seen here) that it looks pretty nice .... as long as the lighting is right. I have trouble reading it sometimes when the sun is hitting it just right

Steve · #9 03-08-2011, 08:33 PM

Quote:

2. Does anyone have an opinion on the "chrome" lettering? (on dark tint window)

I'd probably go with white. I think the white would stand out better on your windows.

Have you considered doing a test layout with a graphic program first to see how it would all look on your truck before you order?

Hedgemaster · #10 03-08-2011, 10:31 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Steve

I'd probably go with white. I think the white would stand out better on your windows.

Have you considered doing a test layout with a graphic program first to see how it would all look on your truck before you order?

Yes, I took some front, side, and rear view photos so I can work up some designs on the computer before I do the final layout.
Most "colors" will be easily simulated, but "chrome" would be hard to mock up.

I still need to take exact window measurements to set the layout up to scale.
It may prove challenging, as I have to work around that "strip" where the back third of the side glass is hinged. (they crank open from the inside)

Vehicle Lettering and Graphics

Truck & Trailer Sign Design, silk screened apparel & uniform discussion