Thread: Label Casters

I use Powerpoint, but you could use any. Main thing is to try printing rectangles on plain paper until you get the size right, then size your picture to the same size and test again on plain paper, only when you get it all right do you print on the label paper.

I create a text box in Microsoft word and then copy & paste the image into the text box and fill the background colour. I then save a blank Microsoft publisher and copy and paste the text box to the publisher doc. Publisher has a ruler that you can resize your label. For a SIerra pen, I resize to 56 mm long and 35 mm wide. This will allow a little for trimming the ends and a little overlap at the seam.

There will be slight variation due to label material thickness, but the size calculation is a simple 'circumference of a circle' calculation. Measure the diameter of the tube and multiple by pi, and that's the width your label should be. Once you know this, then as Neil says, just tweak it by varying the width slightly until it's the fit you want.

Russell.

Calculations are good, but many printers do not print to scale, this is why it is important to test print your labels on normal paper until you get them right

OK I think I got the scale thing worked out and am ready to test on some decal paper. What do you all prefer to use, white or clear and why??? How are you hiding the seams??? Also how are you hiding the edges or reidges when using a decal that does not cover all the tube??? For now I am going to be placing the decals right on the tubes and casting in clear. Thanks

I don,t use decal paper anymore as I found that it delaminates from the tube when turned. I now use vinyl paper which has stick back and much easier to wrap around the tube and to trim. If you have about I mm or 1/16 inch overlap you should only see a thin line along The seam which of most will be covered by the cilp

Originally Posted by JTTHECLOCKMAN

What do you all prefer to use, white or clear and why??? How are you hiding the seams??? Also how are you hiding the edges or reidges when using a decal that does not cover all the tube???

Each has its place. With clear you need a light background, preferably white, as the colours are translucent but the transfer doesn't need to cover the whole tube. The white is better as it can be used for all colours and backgrounds, but it is stiffer and harder to keep rolled on until the glue sets (and even then sometimes they come unstuck ). I have used partial white ones, to add a company logo to a wood pen etc.

Seems are merely filled by the resin/coating, full labels have a small overlap, but as small as possible (almost impossible to have no overlap).

The main thing is to ensure it has a protective coating prior to casting or coating with CA, with a compatible spray clear coating.

Cheers