12
A
Acrylics:
Acrylics are an affordable
substitute for glass. They can be
printed on directly or used as a
base for adhering window decals,
for example. You’ll frequently see
acrylics used in office lobbies and as
architectural signage.
Aluminum:
A great choice for
outdoor signage, aluminum is meant
to withstand any weather conditions.
Often featuring baked-enamel finishes,
typical applications include apartment,
directional, parking and real estate
signs.
D
D-rings:
Attached to the corners of
large banners and flags, D-rings are
metal loops in the shape of the letter
“D” to which snap hooks or rope is
usually attached.
F
Foam boards:
For temporary
indoor signs, presentation boards or
trade show exhibits, foam boards are
a cost-effective choice for lightweight
projects that need more rigidity than
poster board.
G
Grommets:
Metal rings which
are placed in the corners or on
the edges of banners and flags,
grommets are anchors for D-rings or
rope.
L
Lamination:
A thin film applied
on top of the final image, lamination
protects it from fade-inducing
ultraviolet radiation and abrasion.
Vehicle graphics almost always get
some type of lamination; temporary
signs usually do not.
M
Magnets:
For flexibility, magnetic
media is tops. Reusable and easy to
install, magnetic signs are great for
temporary signage and are a low-
cost alternative to lettering directly
on
a vehicle.
Mesh:
A type of vinyl substrate that’s
most often used for large outdoor
wall or fence banners, mesh reduces
weight while its open weave allows
wind to pass through the signage
more easily.
N
Nylon:
A synthetic fabric that’s
lightweight and highly flexible, nylon
is a go-to for trade show graphics
and other banners where portability
is prized.
P
Polystyrene:
Inexpensive,
lightweight and featuring a smooth
finish, polystyrene is often used for
interior signage. Flexible, too, it’s
frequently the choice for signs that
have to fit a curved surface.
PVC:
Rigid plastic with a textured
surface for a matte appearance,
PVC (polyvinylchloride) is ideal for
directional signs, menu boards,
point-of-purchase displays and
interior identification signs.
S
Substrates:
Substrate refers to any
material that receives an image. In
other words, the stuff you print on!
V
Vinyl:
Durable and fade-resistant,
vinyl is frequently used for both
indoor promotions and outdoor
events signage.
W
Wind slits or vents:
Small
openings that are cut into banners
intended for display outdoors, wind
slits allow the breeze to pass through
to prevent rips and tears.
Talk to our sign professionals for
great ideas that save you time
and money, and deliver your
promotional messages in a big way.
COMING TO TERMS
WITH
SIGNS and BANNERS
E
very industry has its own language that can be downright foreign to everyone else.
Here are a few terms to help you make sense of some of the typical lingo you’ll
encounter when choosing signs, banners and large graphics to inform, educate,
motivate . . . and sell.
(There will not be a quiz.)
C
Canvas:
Provides outdoor
durability or indoor beauty in a
natural fabric. Canvas is perfect for
interior designs, high-resolution
photos or wall hangings.
