Types of squeegees used in the printing industry
What types of tools and accessories are used in the printing industry?
In the printing industry, various tools and accessories are used for finishing printed materials. Some of the most important and essential ones, if you want to be an excellent printing professional, are:
- Printing and cutting equipment: such as printers or cutting plotters, for example.
- Handling and transport equipment: such as coil carriers, coil lifters and gloves, amongst others.
- Tools for applying vinyl: these include spatulas and their various types, such as plastic spatulas and felt spatulas.
- Cutting tools: such as cutting plotters, precision cutters, rulers and corner rounders, amongst others.
- General-purpose tools for signmakers: in this case, we are referring to tools that are not specific to the printing industry, such as DIY tools, rollers, scissors or tweezers.
- Tools for finishing banners: such as eyelet machines, automatic systems for cutting and fitting eyelets on banners, as well as welding machines and laminators.
- Storage accessories: examples include coil storage racks, as well as tool holders, which are also well known and typical of the sector.
Types of squeegees used in vinyl signage
There are several types of spatulas and scrapers used in vinyl signage. Some of the most important ones are:
Plastic spatulas
Plastic spatulas for everyday use are designed to help secure the adhesive vinyl to the surface being worked on.
At PLASTGrommet, our spatulas are made from high-quality materials such as polypropylene and offer excellent glide. Their features include four rounded corners to prevent damage, and we also offer different levels of hardness.
Spatulas are used for all kinds of pressure-sensitive applications, such as film, signs, and vinyl, among other materials.
At PLASTGrommet, we offer a variety of plastic spatula models, including the Gold Super-Flex model, which offers two key advantages: flexibility and durability, allowing it to retain its shape for longer. Its versatility makes it ideal for a wide range of applications.
GOLD SUPER-FLEX 10 cm PLASTGrommet Spatula
Felt spatulas
This is a spatula with one edge covered in a layer of felt, which allows you to work with the material gently and delicately; at the same time, because of the type of material used, it adapts perfectly to uneven surfaces.
It is one of the most widely used industrial scrapers for large surfaces, as well as for minimizing damage to vinyl or signs. It is ideal for any type of film or vinyl used to wrap around a surface, particularly on smooth surfaces.
It’s the perfect solution for car wrapping, a technique in which vinyl is applied to cars and windows.
Red Spatula with Felt, 15 cm, PLASTGrommet
Microfiber Spatulas
These are also industrial spatulas, which offer a dual advantage, as they combine the features of the two models mentioned above. On the one hand, they allow you to apply strong pressure to the material being worked on, and on the other, they handle the material gently and are capable of adapting to any work surface with irregular contours.
At PLASTGrommet, our most widely used squeegee for car wrapping applications is the Marathon model, which is made with a double layer of ultra-high-quality microfiber that provides all the softness needed to prevent scratches on the surface. We also offer the Marathon Flex squeegee, which features the same high-quality characteristics as the Marathon model but with greater flexibility. This allows you to choose either microfiber squeegee depending on your specific needs.
One of its advantages is that it can be used wet or dry, offering great versatility for safe and easy cleaning. When used wet, the microfiber glides more smoothly.
The quality and smoothness of the materials used in its manufacture make it perfect for high-quality vinyls, and it complies with the recommendations of industry leaders—manufacturers and distributors of graphic, labeling, and packaging materials.
Marathon FLEX Wet Spatula, 10–15 cm
Different vinyl printing techniques: What squeegees are used for application?
Today, there are various vinyl printing techniques used in the graphic arts industry. Below, we’ll explain the most popular ones and those that are most well-received by customers.
Cut vinyl
Cut vinyl is one of the most popular techniques for applying vinyl to decorate spaces or even onto clothing fabric. This printing technique requires a design that is first digitized by a computer.
It should be noted that this type of printing allows for the use of various types of vinyl in different colors, as well as all kinds of textures. It also offers a wide range of customization options and designs. To apply it, you’ll need to use plastic and composite squeegees, as well as anti-bubble tools.
Printed vinyl
Printed vinyl consists of a self-adhesive film suitable for various applications, such as cut vinyl; it is also highly recommended for printing on fabric. However, it differs significantly from cut vinyl in that it has a white backing and is applied by printing directly onto the desired surface. Although this printing technique produces a lower-quality finish—since it is precisely that transparent layer that remains around the printed design—it can be applied in sections, so precision is key during installation. Depending on the thickness of the vinyl, it is recommended to use plastic or felt squeegees to smooth out any unevenness.
What are repositionable vinyl stickers used for?
As the name suggests, “repositionable” refers to a type of material that can be stuck on and peeled off without leaving any adhesive residue.
Today, repositionable adhesive vinyl offers a wide range of uses; in fact, it has become a highly sought-after decorative item among consumers, since—regardless of personal tastes and style preferences—repositionable vinyl comes in a wide variety of designs and sizes.
To apply vinyl graphics and later remove them from the surface, you need the right signage tools. Among the main tools are various types of spatulas and scrapers, depending on the type of surface; utility knives for all kinds of cuts; bubble removers; and antistatic gloves that prevent fibers or dust from sticking.
“Check out our tool kits, which include all the essential tools for signage.”
Seasonal Decorations
This is one of the most popular and appealing options, which involves using vinyl decals with designs specific to a particular celebration. Christmas is by far the most popular choice, but there are also many other celebrations that lend themselves to themed decorations, such as Halloween, Easter, and Carnival, among others.
Temporary Decorations
In this case, decorative repositionable vinyl stickers allow you to create unique designs so you can feel completely at home and ensure your decor matches your personal style even before you purchase a home. Best of all, when removed with a scraper, they leave no residue and don’t get damaged, so they can be reused in another location.
Advertising and Commerce
Another use for repositionable vinyl stickers—one that has become very widespread in recent years, thanks to both their versatility and ease of use—is in the advertising and retail sectors.
Many companies use vinyl graphics in their store windows and signage, and even for promotions and specific campaigns. Their wide range of design options, ease of application and removal using just a scraper, and their versatility make them the top choice when it comes to conveying a visual message in a physical space.
In conclusion, to produce professional-quality digital prints, it is not only necessary to have good graphic design work; it is also essential to use high-quality tools and spatulas to avoid mistakes during the application and finishing stages.