Vinyl Boat Graphics

[sailingdog]

I don't think they'd work very well on an inflatable. The inflation/deflation would soon cause them to fall off IMHO.

Originally Posted by heinzir

Is there such a thing as a vinyl or other stick-on graphic (not just block letters) that is flexible enough to work on a hypalon inflatable dinghy?

[heinzir]

That's what I thought. I was just wondering if there was some special product made for this application.

[camaraderie]

This works for basic numbers and letters on a dinghy heinzer. Uses Vinly based paint.

Or try this stuff for a more elaborate job.
Inland Marine - Paint topside paint

[heinzir]

Thanks -- I used this for the registration numbers and it has held up pretty well. I was hoping for something with a little more pizzazz for the name. It would have to be stencil or stick-on graphics because I have no artistic ability whatsoever. I can't even draw stick figures straight. And I'm too darned cheap to hire a sign painter. I got laid off last week.

[T34C]

I would recommend a local sign maker/graphics company. Vinyl comes in lots of different grades and thicknesses. Many of the cheaper on-line companies are going to use a cheaer grade of material. I much prefer to see and touch the materials I am getting before I pay for them. (unless you can verify what you are getting from on-line company.)

[T34C]

Originally Posted by heinzir

Is there such a thing as a vinyl or other stick-on graphic (not just block letters) that is flexible enough to work on a hypalon inflatable dinghy?

Besides the inflation/deflation issues, the thermal expansion of the two materials are too different for them to stay bonded together.

[Peabody]

Greetings,
We're taking delivery of our C&C 39 Landfall in a few hours. The painted-on name on the transom is faded, vinyl letters sound like the way to go. How do I remove the old name? Will paint thinner attack the fiberglass? or do I have to repaint the whole transom?

Thanks,

[sailingdog]

To remove the painted on name, use Easy Off Oven Cleaner... provided your hull isn't painted... The area under the letters will appear slightly different in color to the rest of the gelcoat, but the difference should fade with time.

[Quickstep192]

myboatsign.com

You can design online, or with their help. If you go to a boat show where they have a booth, they'll work with you right there. I've had several made as have some friends. In fact, when I wanted to give one of those friends a half hull model as a Christmas gift, Michael at MyBoatSign provided a scale vinyl graphic at no charge. Good Guy....

[Sabreman]

How do I remove the old name?

I never tried the Easy Off, but there are paint removers for fiberglass. Works well. DO NOT use ZIPIT or similar stuff from Lowes, Home Depot, etc.

Will paint thinner attack the fiberglass?

No. In general, paint thinner is a gentle solvent.

We used the local FastSigns franchise and paid $82 for both sides and the hailing port on the transom. Holding up well after 4 seasons. Installed it ourselves while the boat was in the water (NOT recommended). The following link shows the name:

VICTORIA’S Bimini