Designer Decal works with you to create decals and labels in any size, shape and quantity for any application. We use the highest quality print materials while providing top-notch customer service.
Ask us how our Impact Plus System™ works for you!
Call 800-622-6333 or request a quote today!
Designer Decal opened in 1972 strictly as a screen-printing company specializing in Mfg/OEM decals. This process is one of the oldest known ways of printing and is still important today, and it is also the most cost effective for larger quantity printing. One advantage to a screen-printed decal is the thick coating of ink, which provides abrasion and chemical-resistant properties as well as fade resistance.
With printing technology constantly changing, Designer Decal has changed over the years as well. We incorporated a full-service digital department to produce beautiful full-color decals and also satisfy the demand for smaller quantities and quicker lead times.
Here are some materials commonly used to manufacture decals and labels:
VINYLS
Tough plastic films which can be applied to a wide variety of products. They can be applied to a curved surface and are also effective at covering minor surface irregularities. Commonly used for identification decals. These materials can also be DOMED, for an eye-catching dimensional look.
POLYESTER
Very strong plastic film which does not conform as well as vinyl, but offers little or no shrinkage. It also has a higher heat tolerance. Commonly used for double-sided decals.
POLYCARBONATE
Strong rigid plastic film with high-impact strength and excellent chemical and abrasion resistance. Commonly used for graphic overlays and faceplates.
REFLECTIVE VINYL
Plastic film coated with tiny glass beads that conforms to curved surfaces moderately well. Commonly used in the utility industry and vehicle graphics.
Used for temporary markings such as parking permits and removable decals.
PAPER
Used for labels in interior applications or for temporary outoodr markings. Commonly used for roll labels and sequentially numbered labels.
All of our decals and labels are custom made to your specifications for size, shape and application using our Impact Plus System. Materials are priced on the basis of durability and aesthetics.
Need help? Call us at 800-622-6333 or contact us for a free project consultation today!
FAQs
When should I choose screen printing versus digital printing for my decals?
Screen printing is ideal for larger quantities (1,000+ pieces), simple designs with 1-4 solid colors, and applications requiring maximum durability and chemical resistance. The thick ink coating provides excellent abrasion resistance and fade protection, making it perfect for industrial applications, equipment labels, and outdoor use. Digital printing works best for smaller quantities (under 500 pieces), complex designs with multiple colors or gradients, and quick turnaround needs. Our team will recommend the most cost-effective method based on your specific quantity, design complexity, and durability requirements.
What's the difference between vinyl, polyester, and polycarbonate for decal materials?
Vinyl is our most versatile option – a tough plastic film that conforms to curved surfaces and covers minor irregularities, commonly used for identification decals. Polyester offers superior strength with little to no shrinkage and higher heat tolerance, making it ideal for double-sided decals and demanding applications. Polycarbonate provides the highest durability with exceptional impact strength and chemical/abrasion resistance, typically used for graphic overlays and faceplates that need long-term performance. We’ll help you select the right material based on your application’s specific environmental conditions and durability needs.
How do I determine the right quantity to order for cost-effectiveness?
Screen printing becomes increasingly cost-effective as quantities increase because setup costs are spread across more units, typically offering the best value for orders over 1,000 pieces. Digital printing maintains consistent per-unit costs regardless of quantity, making it ideal for smaller runs or when you need flexibility for design changes. Our Impact Plus System™ helps analyze your total needs – if you’ll need additional decals over time, ordering larger quantities upfront with screen printing often provides significant savings compared to multiple smaller digital orders.
Can you match specific brand colors and maintain consistency across different orders?
Yes! Screen printing excels at precise color matching, including Pantone colors, metallics, and fluorescents that digital printing cannot replicate. Once we create your color formulation, we can maintain exact consistency across future orders. Digital printing works within CMYK color limitations but offers excellent consistency for complex designs and photographic images. We maintain detailed records of all color specifications through our Impact Plus System™ to ensure brand consistency whether you’re reordering the same design or expanding to new applications.
What's the expected lifespan of different decal materials and printing methods?
Screen-printed decals typically offer the longest lifespan due to heavy ink deposits that provide superior fade resistance, chemical resistance, and durability – often lasting 5-8 years outdoors without lamination. Digital prints may require protective lamination for extended outdoor use but offer excellent durability when properly protected. Material choice significantly affects lifespan: vinyl and polyester for general applications (3-5 years), polycarbonate for demanding environments (5-10+ years), and reflective vinyl for utility applications requiring long-term visibility. We’ll recommend the optimal combination of printing method and material to meet your specific durability requirements and budget.
