Below are 5 key elements to consider and know before ordering cut vinyl lettering to streamline the vinyl lettering order experience. Taking a moment to answer the five basics of ordering cut vinyl lettering will save you time, possible frustration, or maybe even money.
VINYL LETTERING BASICS | #1 - CHARACTERS COUNT!
Before ordering vinyl lettering, you'll need to know exactly what the lettering needs to say. Vinyl lettering is partly based on the amount of characters you'll need. Each character needs to be counted up so that when you decide on a size, you'll be able to calculate a pricing online or on the phone with a sign company.
VINYL LETTERING BASICS | #2 - SIZE MEANS EVERYTHING!
After you've figure out what your vinyl lettering needs to say, to price and order vinyl lettering, you'll need to know a size. If you are not sure about the size of your vinyl lettering, take into consideration the available space of the area where you will be adhering your vinyl letter decal too. Another key element to vinyl letter sizing is to keep in mind that the width of a character will be almost as much as the height. For instance, a 5-inch tall letter will roughly be about 4 1/4 inch in width, depending on the font. If you order vinyl lettering that is too large for the intended space, you will end up spending more money to replace the lettering with smaller lettering.
Another size factor to consider, when ordering cut vinyl letters, is letter visibility needs that relate to how far away the letters will need to be viewed from. Roughly every inch in letter height can be viewed from about 30 feet. So while bigger sometimes seems better, it may not always be necessary, which in turn can save you more money in the end.
VINYL LETTERING BASICS | #3 - LOCATION! LOCATION! LOCATION!
You'll also need to consider where the vinyl lettering will be placed to be able to order the correct vinyl material. In the sign business, there are pretty much two standard vinyl material choices for self-stick letters... Intermediate and Premium.
Intermediate vinyl is best suited to apply on smooth, non-porous surfaces like windows, painted walls (without a texture), acrylic, aluminum, etc. Intermediate vinyl lettering will last for many years and can be used both indoors and outdoors. Intermediate vinyl is cheaper than premium vinyl, and is used in most cases, because it's budget friendly and just as durable as premium vinyl.
Premium vinyl is a bit thinner than intermediate vinyl making it less rigid and more pliable to apply to surfaces that have a slight texture or contours. Premium vinyl also has a more aggressive adhesive than intermediate vinyl and is highly recommended for any vehicle lettering or for any lettering that will endure excessive washing or cleaning.
VINYL LETTERING BASICS | #4 - WHAT'S IN A FONT?
A "font" is essentially the letter style. There are literally thousands of fonts to choose from, so it's always helpful to have an idea of what type of font (style) you would like for your lettering to have. Most font choices are based on personal preference, while sometimes font choices are based on usefulness or maybe sometimes both. You'll want to choose a font, whether script-like or block-like, that encompasses the form and functionality that works best for your lettering project. When in doubt, give your chosen sign company a call, and discuss your lettering needs with a professional.
VINYL LETTERING BASICS | #5 - GIVE YOUR LETTERING SOME COLOR?
Lastly, you'll need to choose a vinyl color for your vinyl lettering. There are hundreds of colored vinyl choices, but most sign companies carry colored vinyl choices that are popular with their clientele. Every sign company will carry normal standard colors like white, black, yellow, blue, red, etc. but may also offer specialty vinyl colors like etched glass/frosted crystal, mirrored vinyl or metallic vinyl that could take your lettering project to the next level. (Note: when ordering window lettering, white or light colors, are best as dark colors do not show up well at all.)
To place an vinyl letter order or for any vinyl lettering questions, please give us a call at (714) 573-9313.