News

With the recent reintroduction of Smith’s Trade Print Service, we sat down with our expert, Sandie Goodfellow, to discuss some of the essentials.

Sandie was a major part of our previous Trade Print Service, prior to its discontinuation when the COVID-19 pandemic hit in late 2019.

With 38 years of experience within the sign and graphics industry, there’s no one better suited to answer your questions about what it all means as a customer of Smith.

So, let’s ask the expert, shall we?

What is Smith’s Trade Print Service and what are the benefits of using it?

A trade print service is the production and supply of large format graphics for the sign and graphics industry. We’re able to act as an outsource partner and facilitate overflow work for those that need it.

We’re able to help you increase your capacity and meet tight deadlines. Our experience in the print sector means we can also advise on your projects. Essentially, we aim to remove the hassle for you.

What is the most exciting project you’ve been involved with?

Years ago, I was involved in a print project that was for application onto a large, multi-panelled, complex window area. It required A LOT of information gathering and test printing to make sure all the specifications were met, and that the images lined up correctly.

The client carried out an amazing installation using a specialist abseiling team. The final look was fantastic!

What do “Calendered” and “Cast” mean?

These terms refer to the manufacturing process of the vinyl. Calendered films start as a solid before being melted and pressed. Over time, the films will naturally want to contract and shrink back to their initial state. They’re non-conformable, so are best used for flat applications on simple surfaces.

Cast films start life as a liquid and are poured into a casting sheet. As a result, the films are thinner, more stable, and conformable. Cast films tend to be used for more complex applications such as vehicle wraps.

What products can be used for projects as part of your service?

Because we’re part of the William Smith Group, we’re able to utilise all the products that are available within the William Smith Distribution portfolio. This means print projects can be fulfilled with the use of brands such as 3M, Avery Dennison, Arlon, VION, and Contra Vision.

How has printing technology advanced over the last 20 – 30 years?

Technology has developed fast! Printers are far quicker, more affordable, and can handle complex, high-quality images with ease.

There are also more sustainable, eco-friendly options available to customers these days, and we expect the number of options available to continue to grow in the years to come.

Are there any requirements for using Smith’s print service?

Yes, all projects must be a total of 15 linear metres per media. Artwork must also be supplied finalised, nested and in print-ready format. The file types we typically require as EPS, PDF, and TIF.

What types of ink are used when printing media?

The main ink types are water-based, solvent-based, eco-solvent, latex, and U.V. inks.

How long should vinyl be left to outgas after printing?

The time depends on the solvent content of the print, the printer, and the working environment. Ideally, full saturation prints should be left to outgas for about 24 hours. They need to be in a warm, dry environment, with good airflow throughout. Prints that haven’t been allowed to outgas can result in a tackier vinyl, more likely to stretch and cause issues during application.

What sustainable options are there for those who need to meet such requirements?

There’s a large range of options available to help meet these requirements. Eco-effective printing technology, green inks, and sustainable materials provide a sustainable solution for just about any requirement.

The PVC-free films we stock that are suitable for digital printing are 3M Envision Series 48 and 480mC films, VION VP4000, Avery Dennison SP 3523 and SP 1504 EA.

What piece of advice can you provide to those fitting large format graphics?

Always ensure you’re using the correct vinyl for the job at hand. To achieve a high-quality application, you also need to follow the proper preparation and application processes for each different surface.

If you have any other questions about trade print, material selection, or application techniques, be sure to get in touch with Sandie or another member of our experienced team at 01833 694700 or e-mail info@smith-signanddisplay.co.uk