Putting graphics on top of vinyl

[Landstander]

Hi All

I'm doing a modular control panel and finishing each module with the basic PartsExpress black vinyl. I'm wondering if anyone has tried to apply any kind of graphics on top of the vinyl? I'd be doing small graphic bits - not a whole control panel overlay. I'd like to have some arrows indicating the joystick directions, maybe a circular graphic around the spinner - not sure yet. Just wondering if anybody has tried putting graphics on top of vinyl?

Thanks!

[MameMe]

Can I jump on this thread and ask what you thought of the vinyl from partsexpress?  I was thinking of buying a roll for my CP as well.  Got any close up pics?

[Landstander]

The vinyl is still en route. I can take a picture when it arrives. Someone else may already have pictures available, or there should be some pics in the examples section.

Can I jump on this thread and ask what you thought of the vinyl from partsexpress?  I was thinking of buying a roll for my CP as well.  Got any close up pics?

[Doc-]

Can I jump on this thread and ask what you thought of the vinyl from partsexpress?  I was thinking of buying a roll for my CP as well.  Got any close up pics?

I have quite a few pictures on my modular control panel (link in signature block).  However, the flash pictures tend to emphasize a "gloss" on the vinyl that simply is not there under normal lighting conditions.   My cabinet is painted in Semi-gloss black and matches the vinyl quite well.  Most people have no idea that the panels are vinyl covered as it has a very nice textured finish and is easy to clean.

Bottom line - I've had the vinyl from parts express on my panels for several months and I'm very happy with it.  Its easy to apply, easy to clean and holds up very well under daily use.

As for the artwork, I think you could create arrows or some simple artwork on top of the vinyl as long as you secure it properly and its not in an area where people constantly place their hands.  

Arrows would be fine - for example I think colored electrical tape would probably stick quite well to the vinyl and be easy to cut into some arrows with a razor knife.  

[Landstander]

Hey Doc-

Seeing your cabinet is what made me go modular!

You have some neat graphics around your player start, coin, pause and quit buttons. Did you make them yourself?

Thanks!

[MameMe]

Looks awesome Doc

[Doc-]

Seeing your cabinet is what made me go modular!

You have some neat graphics around your player start, coin, pause and quit buttons. Did you make them yourself?

Yes,
  This was another very low tech, low cost solution.

  First I made the graphics I wanted in Powerpoint, which took all of a few minutes.  Next I printed them on some matte paper (medium quality) using a cheap color printer.

  I put clear scotch tape over the top of each label to protect it and then cut out the desired shape.  Finally I used a 99 cent glue stick to install it on the cabinet.  Glue sticks are nice because they give you a little time to move the label around before it sets.

  They have been in place for several months and the cabinet gets used every day.  Having the scotch tape over the top lets me wipe it clean with a wet rag when needed.

  You could probably do the same on the vinyl, but you would need to use something like superglue that bonds both paper and plastic well.

  I'd be very interested in seeing how your cabinet turns out - PM me when you have it done!

Doc-