Printing on wide-format magnetic material is one of the new growing trends among signmakers. Images courtesy Simple Signman
By Carly McHugh
When we think of magnets, what usually come to mind are small, individual pieces designed to hold other materials in place. However, today’s magnetic solutions have evolved to become so much more. Now, sign professionals have an even wider variety of options at their disposal to create displays and other projects they would not have even dreamed of fabricating with traditional magnets.
For some first-hand insight on the growing attraction to these materials, Sign Media Canada spoke to Hugo Beauregard, sales manager and specialist at magnetic solutions provider Simple Signman. He discussed the latest advancements in magnetic signage and why sign shops should consider offering these options to their clients.
Sign Media Canada (SMC): What are some of the different types of magnetic materials commonly used in the sign industry?
Hugo Beauregard (HB): There are two different types. First, there are flexible magnetic materials, which include magnetic tape, magnetic strips, and magnetic sheeting. For example, car magnets are a common application. However, more sign companies are now printing on wide-format magnetic material to make signage or even cover up walls. This is definitely the trend at the moment.
SMC: How do magnetic signs compare to traditional adhesive vinyl signs in terms of durability and reusability?
HB: With adhesive vinyl, you apply it and it’s permanent. With a magnet, it comes off easier and doesn’t need to be on for as long. An application that has been done for indoor and outdoor signage is magnetic receptive material. You can easily put this on because you only need to roll it over the magnetic surface. When you apply vinyl, it takes a good amount of expertise to be able to do it properly. With magnetic receptive material, you can also easily interchange the graphics. Therefore, it’s more seasonal than a long-term application, and it’s fairly easy to apply once the magnetic base is in place. You don’t need a technician to go on-site and apply it.
SMC: You mentioned wide-format printing as an area where magnetic material has become more popular. In terms of ink transfer, do you find it holds better than it would on vinyl? Does the type of finish affect how the ink transfers to the material?
HB: Most of the traditional polyvinyl chloride (PVC) magnets or PVC vinyl on the magnets can be printed on using ultraviolet (UV), latex, solvent, or screenprinting. However, there are also wider materials up to 1,524-mm (60-in.) wide that are PVC-free. They print easier, they cut better, and their white point is better. There’s also no adhesive and no gumming. The material has really improved over the past two or three years to become more accessible—not only wider, but also easier to print on. It’s definitely more innovative and eco-friendly. There are only advantages to using these magnetic solutions.
