Helmet Help

[Bigdawg]

I am working with a high school football team that needs side decals for their helmets. When we've done these in the past the 2.5" x 4.75" decal went on the back of the helmet and the curve was slight enough they had no problems using 3651 (laminated).

This time the have to put one on each side. Size change can't be done, but I'm worried that the curvature may be too much for the calendared vinyl... but don't have enough experience - and can't get my hands on a helmet - to know if we are going to have problems. The coach applies the decals.

Do I need to switch to 3M vehicle vinyl (my only other real option here at the shop) or will I be okay on the sides with 3651

 

[Redz Signs Inc.]

bust out the heat gun and shrink the media little bit of heat will shring it and make it sit flat on the curved surface. to much heat will cause it to curl up and burn . dont be afrade to heat it just not to much.

 

[HulkSmash]

Try 3M IJ35. It has air release, and its a higher quality calendered. It's about 165 a roll for 54 inch. If you end up deciding to use it, make sure you ask for the air release because they have it with and without.

 

[cgsigns_jamie]

I'd go with 3M 180c... you know it'll work.

 

[stoliker]

http://www.convexvinyl.com/products.html

These are the people to talk too. AWESOME PRODUCT! I am a high school football coach and we used to used 3M. I got sick of the creasing. We have 3 different helmets and the convex stuff worked great and was easy to apply on all three.

 

[signcrafters london]

I think stoliker is on the right track. I've never done football helmets, but I'd think convex-type material would be needed. If your high school team is getting by using regular calendared vinyl ... then they aren't hitting hard enough.

 

[Bigdawg]

Not going to be convex. Period. Either the 3M or the 3651 - only need 200 decals and then I'd have convex laying around that frankly - we wouldn't use again until next year - if they come back to use. I know it's the best thing for the job - but not for the budget.

If they wanted to pay for convex - by all means I'd use it. The sample he brought in was convex - and he specifically said he can't afford to do that again (last year that's what they used on the sides).

I'll sleep better if I use the 3M I reckon - just wish I'd quoted it that way. But I don't want a coach and a bunch of football players mad at me

 

[stoliker]

Then I would go with the 3651. The coach nows the difference in and if he isnt happy with them then he should budget more for next year As a coach myself that is how I would look at it.

 

[rushworks graphics]

if your not going with convex(the best choice)...then 3m will work. we have used both and its been great. we usually have convex instock as well as the lam for helmets but it is pricey and if your not going to use it often then agreed, go with the 3m....