Sealing Vinyl Artwork?

[okmike87]

I got extremely lucky and a department at work got one of those BIG Epson printers with a sample roll of the vinyl sticker paper.

Got my Galaga side graphics printed today and they look great.

BUT I really think I need to seal these things somehow.

Does anyone have any suggestions?

My progress so far:
http://www.mikemaddux.com/mamecab

[NoOne=NBA=]

If they don't have any premask (application tape) on them yet, I'd suggest having them coldsealed (mechanical lamination using a self-adhesive polyester material).

You may be able to have them wetsealed (a roller application of a liquid sealer), but I'd check a sample first to make sure it won't give you any trouble with the ink bleeding, etc... first.

You could also use a spray topcoat after they are applied.
Again be careful how much you spray, or you may rewet the ink, and cause it to bleed.
I'd do it in very thin layers to start, and then thin layers from there.
Once you get a few of the very thin layers on the ink, they should protect it from the thin layers.

The cold seal is going to be the best option, but will probably be the most expensive as well.
Polyester (Mylar) is very chemical/water resistant.
We use it at work for industrial labels that are going on hydraulic equipment, etc...
It is much more durable than the vinyl as well, and will hold up to moderate abrasion with only minimal surface scratching.

[Pacific Ripper]

I work at a sign shop and I work with vinyl all the time. I usually just spray a clear polyurethane coat going only in one direction on digitally printed vynil and just let it air dry.  I've never had problems with bleeding as of yet.