TEN Magazine May 2019 TEN May 2019 (2) | Page 16

DOMING Keyfactors are a leading manufacturer of domed labels in all shapes and sizes Keyfactors are manufacturers of polyurethane domed labels, supplying both the UK domestic and international markets. Their labels can be produced in any size* or shape to suit your specifi cations, whether you need just a small quantity or thousands. They can manufacture labels in any colours requested, including metallics gold and silver. *minimum size for domed labels is 9mm dia., or 10mm length/width for rectangles/ovals What are clear domes? Clear domes are made from a clear gloss vinyl base topped with crystal clear liquid polyurethane resin. Keyfactors clear domes are flexible, with a self-adhesive backing (permanent clear solvent-based acrylic). They are non-scratch, non-yellowing, UV-resistant, waterproof and are manufactured in the UK. Adding a clear resin dome to a print instantly adds a touch of quality, making the image more attractive and eye-catching. The dome will also protect the printed image, adding resilience and permanence. Keyfactors can supply polyurethane clear domes in almost any shape or size required and they have in stock all the most popular sizes for immediate despatch. There are many ways to print and cut out your images. The most convenient way to do this is with vinyl print-cut machines marketed by specialist companies such as Gerber, Mutoh or Roland. Simply apply Keyfactors clear domes to the cut out images produced. Alternatively, use a conventional printer and print on adhesive backed glossy photo paper. Then apply the clear dome to the print and cut out using a handheld cutter. An even simpler solution is to use scissors - apply the clear dome to the paper and cut around it. Keyfactors stock A4 photo paper with adhesive backing for printing, and a range of hand held cutter sizes. Application To avoid air being trapped between the two surfaces, the clear dome should be ‘rolled on’ from one edge of the print to the other. Apply downward pressure at the same time so the adhesion layer makes contact evenly with the print layer. Uses Clear domes are a useful alternative for one-offs and immediate fulfilment of orders for pin badges, trophies, keyrings, and any other product requiring personalisation or a quality long-term identification label. Printing your own centres You can use your own computer and printer to produce images, using image-editing software. Keyfactors personal choice is CorelDRAW but there are lots of alternatives, including many free ones. Any software with basics such as adding text to an image will do for producing simple prints. 14 MAY 2019 Clear domes make short runs and one-offs practical and cost effective. However, for larger print run quantities (over 25) it is recommended to use Keyfactors to supply printed and domed badges/labels. Please note - Keyfactors clear domes are made with polyurethane resin. They are a superior product to ‘epoxy domes’ which are made with epoxy resin and tend to be cheaper but are prone to yellowing, curling and long term deterioration. twitter / facebook / instagram: @trophexlive