Essential tools for a signmaker
Sign-making is a trade that dates back many years and has evolved in step with the technological changes of each era. Indeed, the tools, styles and concepts involved are closely linked to the study of graphic design and the graphic arts.
A signmaker is someone who designs and installs signs. These days, there is an extraordinary variety of signs, thanks to developments in advertising, which is why we can find everything from letters on plastic backing, 3D figures, printing on glass, illuminated signs, or simply signs painted onto a backing.
Historically, a sign writer was known as someone who practised the craft of lettering, devoting themselves to writing calligraphy directly onto advertising media. It was the advent of computer systems, printers and other tools that drove the growth of advertising production. Although the craft of lettering has fallen into disuse in the face of printed signage, it is still practised today due to its great artistic value.
Next, we’ll look at the main tools used by signmakers today and how they can improve their work by using the right materials.
Solutions and tools for signmakers
There are specific tools available on the market used by signmakers who work with many different types of materials (from vinyl to wood), both for static signage and for vehicle signage.
When lettering is done by hand, tools ranging from paintbrushes to modelling tools are used. When it is done digitally, other, more sophisticated tools are used to prepare the surface (which can range from canvas to metal) to be lettered.
Hand-painted signage has regained popularity thanks to its artistic and vintage appeal, a trend that has taken hold in neighbourhood shops and restaurants that evoke a bygone era.
We can also categorise signage according to the type of application. Generally speaking, there are three types: indoor signage, outdoor signage and vehicle signage.
Tools for labelling in digital printing
We will mainly be focusing on digital signage and solutions for producing flawless work. In the case of vehicle signage or car wrapping, the work is mostly carried out in a signage workshop. However, for both interior and exterior signage, the signmaker will sometimes need to travel to the location where the signage is to be installed.
That is why the common features of all the tools we will describe below must be comfort, lightness and ease of transport.
Squeegees: These enable vinyl and adhesive films to be applied correctly and without damage. It is fair to say that the squeegee is one of the basic tools of the trade, as it is almost impossible to apply vinyl without bubbles without the aid of a squeegee. Rubber rollers are another option for certain materials, but squeegees are widely used in the industry due to the high-quality results they deliver.
You can find out about all the models available from PLASTGrommet here: Spatulas and scrapers
Blades or scrapers: Their function is to clean, remove excess material or strip away any previous vinyl that may be on the substrate. There are different models available, which are mainly designed to suit the type of surface being worked on. For example, a flexible blade is recommended for uneven surfaces such as joints, tiles or fibreglass.
Rulers for measuring and guiding: Safety rulers enable precise cutting and measuring. They must be non-slip, made from durable materials, and feature safety and grip features that are comfortable to use.
Cutting mat: To protect the work surface, signmakers should use a cutting mat on which they can carry out all types of cutting. We recommend mats made from plastic materials that feature self-healing technology.
Cutters: To make precise cuts without wasting material, we need cutters with sharp blades which, where possible, have replaceable blades to maintain the quality of our work. At PLASTGrommet, we stock a wide range of precision cutters, including those with rotating blades for hard-to-reach areas, circular or double-bladed foamboard cutters for making straight or freehand cuts, and easy-to-use safety cutters, etc.
Marking pens: There are various types of pens used to peel back vinyl or to remove the annoying bubbles that can appear when applying vinyl.
Corner rounders: For a neater finish, we can use this tool to round the corners of various materials. Having the right corner rounder allows us to cut materials as diverse as cardboard, Dibond, cellular polypropylene and polyethylene.
Vinyl fastenings: Whether for vehicle graphics or other types of signage, it is advisable to use fastenings that allow you to secure the material in place whilst the vinyl is being applied. In this case, magnetic clamps with powerful magnets are used to hold the vinyl in place. It is also advisable to wear special gloves when handling the materials to eliminate static electricity.
Tool kit: An ergonomic bag is the best way to keep all your labelling tools to hand at all times. At PLASTGrommet, we offer very practical kits that come equipped with all the essential tools, organised into different compartments. It can be worn on your belt or using the clip provided.