labeled buttons?

[milkit]

Does anyone sell buttons that are labeled like the player buttons but for admin stuff like pause/menu/etc? Or is vinyl decals the best way to go?

[ubiquityman]

I've not seen any that I can remember, but some of the buttons have clear tops that allow you to insert printed text or graphics underneath the clear window like the Ultimarc Ultralux.

If you have a digital cutter, you could cut a mask for spray painting the top of the button.  I'd probably go that route myself if I wanted to put the text right on the button.  Personally, I would recommend putting it on the control panel.
(see my pictures in the Reviews section of this message board.)

[javeryh]

I would think spray paint would wear off over time.  The vinyl decals from Pongo work GREAT.  The edges stick and there is no issue of it wearing out.

[ubiquityman]

Agreed.
Wear factor is definitely a consideration.
Durability depends on the type of paint. 
For example, the Happ 1p,2p,3p,4p buttons are painted, and most laptop keyboards have the letter painted nowadays.

For computers, I've used plastic primer with spray paints and have had good success.
The UI buttons won't get as much wear as the normal game buttons.
Expoy paints are quite durable and can be brush applied if the button is masked.

Your suggestion for a vinyl sticker on top is a good one.
Thanks.

[javeryh]

Agreed.
Wear factor is definitely a consideration.
Durability depends on the type of paint. 
For example, the Happ 1p,2p,3p,4p buttons are painted, and most laptop keyboards have the letter painted nowadays.

For computers, I've used plastic primer with spray paints and have had good success.
The UI buttons won't get as much wear as the normal game buttons.
Expoy paints are quite durable and can be brush applied if the button is masked.

Your suggestion for a vinyl sticker on top is a good one.
Thanks.

Wow, really?  I never would have guessed those were painted.  If you can get those kinds of results then go for it!  The Happ start buttons I have haven't worn a bit.   

[DeLuSioNal29]

I've used Pongo's vinyl stickers as well.  They are great.

However, lately I've been ordering from www.uberstickers.com.  The fact that you can order "a la carte" is a bonus.  At .50 cents each you can't go wrong.  It doesn't pay to order a whole sheet just for one.  Also, he's very happy to make anything that you don't see in his store.

The only problem I see with vinyl stickers is that you need to be careful when cleaning your machine.  I ordered Pongo's and used Glass Plus to clean my panel, which made the stickers come off.  No biggie, lesson learned.  But they are SUPER durable otherwise.

D

[Ginsu Victim]

Pongo rules.

[Gamester]

If you have any interest in translucent buttons, these are also an option:  http://groovygamegear.com/webstore/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=73&products_id=302

I used them on my panel with clear buttons and they look great.  Plus, since they are installed inside the button, they will NEVER wear.