Which file formats can I use?

We are happy to accept jpg, bmp, gif as well as Word.  Our main design package is CorelDraw, so if you use that too, just send the file as it is.  The higher the resolution, the better.

I don't have any design skills, can you help?
We are happy to do basic designs of rubber stamps and banners.  In fact we prefer to do this and send them to you for approval prior to manufacture.  It really helps us to have everything proof checked, but it gives you the opportunity to canvas opinion amongst your friends and colleagues before confirming your order.

However, if you need a new logo or something special designed, we can recommend designers with more skills than ourselves!

What do you need before you start a design?
As much information as you can describe!  Think colours, think fonts (writing style) and the type of look you are after (modern, classic, retro, fun, themed . . . ) and we can do our best to help.  Sometimes a telephone call helps best here . . .

Do I have to order online?
We are people who love to talk, so just give us a bell.  But forgive us if you catch us out occasionally. Sometimes we have to work on site, or deliver, or just queue for hours in the Post Office . . . we will always return your call.

I don't like paying by card . . .
We never refuse money.  Send a cheque, pay by bacs, paypal, credit or debit card.  Cash is also welcomed!

What is a digi stamp?
Digi stamps are laser cut to great detail, so even photographs can be replicated.  For the techies, our laser cuts at 600 dpi (dots per inch) which is the same quality as most desktop printers.  When stamped on quality paper, the image will be sharp and incredibly clear, with no smudging as the self-inking membrane allows just the correct amount of ink through each time.  These laser cut stamps don't leak (so you can carry them around in your bags, boys!) and they don't deteriorate so the images will be crisp from the 1st to the 10,000th.
 
Why is the maximum digi stamp size 40x90mm?
It is very hard for the human hand to apply even pressure over a greater area, so in order to preserve the clarity of image, this is the biggest size we offer in self-inking digi stamps.

Do you sell traditional rubber stamps?
Yes, we do.  Rubber stamp mounted on a perspex base are less popular since we started offering digi stamps, but they do have their uses.  Whilst not suitable for photos or logos, they do give a certain 'hand made' image which gives a charm in certain applications.  But who wants a hairy ink pad . . . .

We also make polymer stamps.  Lots of customers buy these unmounted and use them to make impressions in clay or jewelry making projects.  These stamps are slightly more proud than rubber ones so a deeper image can be made but flexible enough to be 'rolled' onto a surface.

Both of these type of stamps can be made up to A4 size, but remember that a good impression every time is difficult on sizes over  5x10cm . . .

But if you are thinking of a stamp solution to your problem, contact us and we'll help if we can.

What makes your banners re-usable?
We use the block vinyl method of application.  This means that we cut decals, numbers and lettering out of sheets of vinyl (think sticky back plastic with sophistication!) and apply them to thick opaque banner material.  This allows us to remove the decals in the workshop, clean and repair the banner, and apply new decals.  For small banner changes, such as date & time details, we can send the lettering to you to replace.

What are the planning rules?
These differ from Council to Council, but generally banners can be displayed for up to 30 continuous days with the land owners permission.  It is always worth checking with your District Council first or with Highways if you were thinking about attaching it to road furniture.

Does my banner have to be white?
NO!  We can make banners in virtually any colour, but there is a small additional charge for coloured banner material.

How big can my banner be?
Any size at all.  Over 3m square needs a join, but these are bonded and will last as long as the banner.

Does my banner have to have eyelets?
We can also make banners with 'sleeves', which are ideal for hanging from scaffold poles, or even lighting rigs behind a stage.  All banners with eyelets are sent out with cable ties for the first use.

Why should I re-use my banner?
Well . . . we wouldn't want an unbiodegradable great lump of vinyl going into landfill after one use, would we?  And if your company is involved in the CRT programme, then it makes good sense . . .

Can I have pictures on my banner?
Well, yes, but we have to print them onto vinyl before applying them.  This way the banner remains re-usable.  We are happy to quote you for this service.

Will my banner fade?
The manufacturing method we use means that the banners will be much brighter and easier to read than printed ones.  The colour tends not to fade because the vinyl is coloured all the way through during the manufacturing process rather than the colour just being printed thinly onto the surface. 

How do I replace my own lettering?
Follow the instructions we send, and take a peak at the handy 'How To' video on this website (under Vinyl Lettering).

What colours can I have my lettering in?
We have a huge range to choose from, including some special effects such as mirrored, brushed aluminium and charcoal.  Not all vinyls are suitable for all applications, so let us know how you plan to use it and we'll advise you accordingly.

I have just put some of your lettering on my boat.  How long can I expect it to last?
Dependent on whether your boat was wooden or fibreglass, you can realistically expect it to last 3 or 5 years respectively.  Having said that, we have many customers who added our decals to their boats much longer ago than that and they still look fab!

I want to put the lettering on my car.  Will it damage the paintwork?
Well, no guarantees, but it shouldn't if you remove it carefully.  However, on some brightly coloured vehicles which have had decals for a long time, there might be 'shadowing' left after removal where the unprotected surface has collected pollution dirt.  Usually this can be sorted out with elbow grease and t-cut . . . .

We have applied decals in the past to a Maserati and a limited edition BMW for special events without any removal issues.

I'm not based near you.  How do I measure my car?
Imagine your car is a blank canvas.  Measure the space you want to put the decals on.  You can ignore door openings, petrol caps etc as the lettering can be cut to allow them to be opened.  However, you MUST avoid lights.  The vinyl is not affected by heated rear windows, or wiper blades.  We will always send you artwork to be approved prior to manufacture.

I'm addicted!  What else can I put the lettering on?
Shop windows, A-boards, cars, mopeds and even push bikes (might not stop it being stolen, but will discourage people).  Rubbish bins, boats, gates, post boxes . . . the list is endless.  You just need a clean, dry surface to apply it to.

Can I have some vinyl for my play group?
Yes, of course.  We donate all our 'waste' to play groups, Am Dram organisations and if there are no claimants, it goes to The Beneficial Foundation in Portsmouth.  We are happy to post small quantities free of charge.  Our pleasure.