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Masking stencils for blasting/painting

2003

Hello All,

I am looking for a type of vinyl paper with an adhesive side to use as a masking tape. I have heard of something like this that you can use a dot-matrix printer to cut out stencils. I have also seen something like this used in silk screening shops. Basically I am looking for a time saver to be able to cut out text/designs for ball blasting and painting.

Thanks for the help!

Graham Skjenna
anodizing - Ottawa, Ontario, Canada

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The equipment you describe is found in the sign industry. It is called a Plotter/Cutter (P/C) and is primarily used to cut vinyl letters for standard signs and masks for making sandblasted signs. You can also plot (it uses a pen) designs on rolls of paper. The sandblasting vinyl is much thicker. There is also a paint mask variety. All come in rolls of up to about 48", or more, depending on the capacity of the P/C and are composed of an adhesive coated vinyl with a paper backing. The design is made in a computer program, such as Corel Draw. This info is transferred to the P/C, which automatically cuts the design. The P/C is calibrated to cut only through the vinyl and not the paper backing. After cutting, the vinyl that is not part of the design is peeled off and discarded (weeded). For normal signs, the letters are left stuck on the backing paper. For stencils, the letters are weeded. Next, wide application tape (like thin masking tape) is applied to the entire top - non-sticky side. The bottom paper backing is then removed, revealing the adhesive. The mask, or whatever, is then applied to whatever substrate is desired . It's tricky, but easy, once you get the hang of it. You can also layout the design by hand and then hand cut it. You can either apply the vinyl before cutting or, if you're good, you can cut first, being careful not to cut into the paper.

Almost every sign maker owns a computerized Plotter/Cutter. I would suggest that you find one that makes sandblasted signs (Yellow Pages). Go see him and tell him your problem. You will find most sign makers to be helpful. The simplest and cheapest solution probably is to let him make the masks for you. He could also apply the mask or tell you how to do it.

Chris Owen
- Houston, Texas
2003