[sdiy] front panel design methods

[steven_thomas]

Hi all, I also experimented with different systems to produce front panel
legend. In the end I opted for
waterslide decal technology, using toner transfer methods. There is a
section on my webpages
discussing the pros and cons.

cheers

 steve thomas

synth diy pages:-
http://monopole.ph.qmw.ac.uk/~thomas/synthdiy/index.htm
----- Original Message -----
From: Steve Ridley <spr at spridley.freeserve.co.uk>
To: synthDIY <synth-diy at node12b53.a2000.nl>
Sent: Saturday, May 05, 2001 7:33 PM
Subject: Re: [sdiy] page update - photos


>
>
>
> > 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
>
>
>