The Big Squeegee is a squeegee.
The back side needs to be elevated. Pushing the
squeegee flat across the graphic will result in
air bubbles being trapped under the graphic. Keep
it about 35-45 degrees off the graphic for most
applications.
Match the length of the Big
Squeegee with the vinyl width being applied. Long
tools can be a bit awkward on small signs.
Downward pressure is not
necessary. Applying downward pressure may distort
the squeegee resulting in air bubbles being
trapped and possible distortion of the graphic.
Direct pressure toward the application point.
Keep the main pushing pressure
applied to the middle third of the squeegee.
Putting pressure toward the ends may result in
the graphic gathering toward the center and cause
wrinkles in the middle farther down the graphic.
Avoid pulling on the backing as
much as possible. Let it peel itself as you push.
If a vinyl needs extra help, pull lightly in the
direction the squeegee is moving. Pulling upward
may lift the squeegee and allow air to get under
the vinyl.
Silvering is normal. Silvering is
caused by the incomplete adhesion to the
underlying graphic. The silvering will go away
after the graphic has set for awhile. You can
speed up the process by applying heat and/or
pressure. The Laminator(1 series) and Yard Sign
Tool(4 series) have a satin covering which
reduces the silvering.
Roll the graphic up so that it
will feed from the bottom of the roll. This
requires that, once fitted into place, the
graphic be pulled back over the squeegee and then
rolled up. Never just roll it up as it sits on
the table. The vinyl should be on the outside of
the roll. If the vinyl turns under on a regular
basis it may be necessary to peel the bcking off
with a free hand. Pieces that are not awkward to
handle do not need to be rolled up. Just hinge
back and double if necessary.
It is normal to allow the roll to
come off the roll holder and roll ahead of the
squeegee during application. This does not cause
any problems with air bubbles. The roll holder
serves as a stiffener and helps to control the
roll during preparation.
If the cut vinyl does not release
from the liner easily, it will take considerably
more time to apply the graphic. Problems with
release can result from cutter depth/sharpness or
the transfer paper is not strong enough to pull
it free of the backing. Try different transfer
tapes to see which works the best. The vinyl
specifications may suggest which transfer tape to
use. Allowing the graphic to set a while will
help it release better. Try going over the masked
graphic with small hard squeegee to set the
adhesive.
The roll holder can be used to
hold a roll of vinyl or application tape at any
time, to keep it from rolling around on a table.
It has also been used for holding a roll while
changing rolls in a printer or to hold the
printed vinyl as it comes off the printer.
The Big Squeegee is warranted
against manufactured defects for 60 days.
Premature wear of parts that wear out are not
covered. The amount of wear on these items is
dependent on the type of usage. Masking will wear
out the fabric faster than laminating and
mounting.
