[sdiy] page update - photos

[Steve Ridley]

> Another method for doing printed paper panels is to glue the paper only to
> the metal panel and trim the edges (I use an exacto to get a very neat,
> close trim).  After the panel glue is dry, take a satin urethane spray in
a
> can and coat the panel with several very light coats of spray.  When
> completed, this does not leave a glossy laminated look.  Instead, it looks
> and feels more like a painted metal.

Another possibility is laser printable film.  Several companies do this
stuff.  It's a plastic (or metalised plastic) self adhesive film.  You do
the
design on a laser printer or photocopier (no inkjets) then stick it onto
your panels.

I've used this method on several panels.  The only problem is that you
can't drill the metal panel through the plastic film.  The swarf gets
between the panel and the film, lifting and tearing it.  If you have a
sheet metal punch, that's no problem, otherwise do a paper copy of
the design, mark, drill and deburr the panel then apply the plastic film.
The film can be cut away from the holes quite easily with a craft knife.
I use a plain washer under the nuts of pots just to make sure that
tightening them doesn't move and wrinkle the film, but I may be over
cautious.

The original samples I got included examples of serial number labels
used of Philips test equipment and Ford cars, so it's reasonably
robust.  It can be bought in  A4 sheets and is available in several
colours, including metallic which blends in well with brushed aluminium
panels.  Unfortunately, this brand of film is usually sold in packs of 100
sheets.

In the UK, Rapid Electronics (good company, much better than Maplin
in my opinion) sell another brand of this film by the sheet.  They can also
supply a laminating film which you stick to it with (clear) adhesive.
I haven't had a chance to try this brand yet, but I'll report back when I
do.



Steve Ridley