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[American logoZ]

My husband just announced my Fall project....  He has a new-to-him semi trailer he's converting into a mobile command center, equipment hauler, off-site driver lounge, etc.  My job: wrap it, and make it so people say WOW.

I think this means I need to:
1.  create the artwork - find just the right photo, incorporate the logo, figure out the measurements and mock it up on the computer

2.  create the wrap - hire someone with the equipment I can only dream about to create the wrap (or maybe 2, just in case) 

3.  wrap it - I'll need rivet tools and a heat gun, but maybe have the rest?

Wait - what about laminate?  I know there are machines....I'm guessing that whoever I outsource the printing to can also do the laminating?  And does it come to me all put together? 

And if I want reflective aspects incorporated into the design, do I use the same reflective vinyl I use on vehicles? and do I layer it over the wrap? or is there a better way?

And I know we'll use stainless, but I've got the waterjet cutter all ready to go.

What am I missing?  Maybe I should attend a training class?

[roxanneupnorth]

Does he have enough money in his budget?....After all you do not work cheap.....lol....

[American logoZ]

He's well aware of my high prices....and he pays well     Everytime he comes up with one of these huge projects I cringe - but so far they have turned out very well and brought in more business.  He's a fantastic salesman.

[knifemaker3]

Better take a class if you've never wrapped before. From what I understand it's not as easy as it looks.  It can be hard enough just getting regular vinyl to line up correct, much less wrap panels......

I think if I remember correct Sandy Jo took a wrap class at one time.....Maybe you can pm her or she'll see this and post.

Good Luck and keep us posted!

[uncle remus]

i would second the idea of taking a class or looking at some installation videos at least....Wrapping a vehicle is a whole new ballgame, a trailer may be a tad easier, but with all those rivets it could be tricky a well....

With that said, i am sure you can do it, just do your research & practice

[knifemaker3]

If you can take the rivets out before laying the wrap and then.  I've done this when putting vinyl on trailers before so you don't have to worry about laying it over the rivet.

[American logoZ]

You guys are awesome.  Great tips, thank you! 

I am thankful that he came home with a giant straight-ish box rather than a VW Bug or similar All-curve nightmare. 

Any design tips I need to know about? 

[uncle remus]

I think (and that can be dangerous) that you will need a RIP program to do the graphics, but i could be wrong....

[knifemaker3]

I may be wrong but I think most wrappers use photoshop and a program to take jpeg images and blow them up so they don't pixelate(spelling?) out.

I've seen the program in Feller's catalog but don't have it with me as I'm off today.  Had a milogram ran this morning and they won't let me go back to work this afternoon.    Check Feller's website or catalog and you should be able to find the program.

Hope that helps....

[uncle remus]

thats the RIP software i was talking about, i couldnt remember what it did, but you refreshed my memory...

[American logoZ]

Thanks!  I'll check their catalog tonight!  But first - handing out karma's.

[cbsuperduty]

Classes to learn are never a bad thing... Yes you will want to find a good high resolution picture. Just have the person that does your printing laminate it so that you can just apply. It you want reflective on it then I would probably suggest doing cut vinyl but make sure to get some good stuff so that it will last as long as your wrap.

I would also look into this little tool. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M12QAFlzzVU (External Embedding Disabled)

RIP software is what the printer will use to send the print job to the printer. You would want to look for a photo enlargement software. I have not used one but a couple of guys that I talk to sometimes recommended Perfect Resize. http://www.ononesoftware.com/products/suite/perfect-resize/?ind

Good luck and post pics.

[Flint54]

Best of Luck to you in the trailer wrap. Our Digital Design Instructor has his own business and wanted to point out that you should be doing the wrap in vertical strips, back to front. Also be sure that your starting panel is on perfect with enough extra to allow for an un-square trailer which is usually the case. I sounds like an expensive project being that with printing and laminating it will be @ 6-7$ per square foot from my estimation. Should be good looking when yr done. Best Wishes 

[American logoZ]

There's a Feller's installer/instructor 30 min from me (at least according to Feller's website).  I'll be checking them out.