printer size for sign writing vinyl for small vans

[bigj2552]

what size are we looking at here - say example - to sign write small escort van both side panels and bonnet and 2x back door panels.

i know we are into large format - how large ?

and i also take it my little brother A3's doesnt come close lol ? - unless i want to print it out in seperate sections .
which in turn i think would be a pain to line up on the van

just firing out a query guys

johnny

[letsgo]

Depends on the graphics/images used really but to would look at least for a 24'' such as a roland or a eco/solvent printer with rip.Also you would probably want to laminate it as well to reduce fading .
Large format is not cheap best bet is to out source the printing and you do the fitting until you have enough regular turnover to justify cost of printer.
We have a 64" HP solvent and it is used regularly but maintenance can be expensive also one bad spot on print means a whole new run.

gary

[bigj2552]

thanks gary - god no - i aint buying one lol....was just wondering bud....got enough on my plate just now ! - was just another angle further down the line - always looking ahead bud.

cheers

johnny

[RogerC]

eco solvent is the way for this sort of job. I use a Roland SP-300.....762mm width with eco solvent inks. If you're looking to do the van in a 'one hit' sheet you'll possibly looking at panels even with one this size. Panels to do the coverage is quite common and the right software(rip) will panel the design for you. Look close at a van with large coverage and you'll see it is done in panels. With the A3 you'll have a lot of panels and unless it is printing with solvent inks I would suggest the print will not be very durable.

[mgibbs]

An A3 with a roll feed, such as the Epson R1800, may do the job on the cheap.

Mark

[smitch6]

i've looked into the solvent inks and there's only a couple of printers that will take that type of ink
i'd love to find one that does it cheaply as i keep getting asked for full colour signs and stickers
but haven't got any money t buy a roland

[bigj2552]

just googled the price - like WOW....and no bloody chance lol