I love vinyl, I mean I really love it. I have it all over my house. I use it to decorate, organize, and to just make things cute. But, sometimes, the regular one color vinyl sign isn’t enough. Sometimes…I need more color! I’m going to show you how to cut and layer vinyl to create amazing looking multi-color vinyl signs. I know every program and digital cutter is different, but for the most part, I think these instructions should work (or at least get you on the right track).
I start with the image I’m going to cut. I size it so it will fit on my project.
Then, I add four arrows to the outside edge of the image. Two are vertically centered and the other two are horizontally centered. I also add small x’s inside the graphic (these are used as registration marks).
Next, I color the letters and shapes to match the vinyl I will be using (you may need to ungroup everything first). If this step can’t be done in your software program, it can be skipped. It just makes it a little easier to see what color it’s going to be.
Copy and paste the graphic so there are as many graphics as the number of colors you will be cutting. I’m cutting two colors, so I made two graphics
Then, in each graphic, delete the parts you don’t want in that color. Be sure you don’t delete any x’s. The arrows only need to be on one graphic – the color you will apply to your project first.
Cut, weed, and tape your vinyl. Use a ruler or straight edge and draw a line that extends from tip to tip of the triangles, horizontally and vertically.
Cut, weed, and tape your vinyl. Use a ruler or straight edge and draw a line that extends from tip to tip of the triangles, horizontally and vertically.
Measure the center points of the edges of the surface you will be applying the vinyl to. Draw straight lines that connect these points (use pencil or something that can easily be cleaned off). Now, it’s time to layer the vinyl.
Remove the vinyl from the backing. Position the first layer of vinyl so the lines all match up. Apply the vinyl (including the x’s) to your surface.
Now, it’s time to apply the next layer of vinyl. Remove the backing, match up the x’s, press down on the vinyl.
After all layers of the vinyl have been applied, you can carefully remove the x’s and arrows and clean off the pencil marks.
Leave as is, or drill holes and attach wire or ribbon to hang.
This was a super simple two color design. You probably could have put this together without all the extra work. But when you have more complex multi-color designs, knowing how to layer vinyl with these extra steps will ensure you will get great results every time.
Here is an example of a more complex design and the screen shot of how I broke apart the 3 colors.
I hope you’ve enjoyed this tutorial on how to layer vinyl. Be sure to check out even more project inspiration for your electronic cutter.
I love the sign! What do you use to make the vinyl letters?
Your sign is so fun! I never thought to use registration marks, what a good idea! Thanks for the tutorial!
Such fun projects!
Thank you for sharing! I will be HOPEFULLY buying a Silhouette soon and this will come in handy! What machine do you use?
jensennp.blogspot.com
What a great idea! I love your signs. They are so cute! I have a party going on over at my blog if you want to join! I'd love to have you! Check it out under the "Stache Party" page on my blog: mylilpumpkinpatch.blogspot.com
That is great! I just love it. What a welcome display for trick or treaters. I am a new follower from Too Cute Tuesday. Vicky @ http://www.messforless.net
I love this sign and I love working with vinyl! I hope you'll join us over at Sew Woodsy and link this project up!
This is so cool! It looks totally professional! I'd love to have you link this and any other recent projects up with Creative Me Monday. It's open Monday through Saturday, here's the link:
http://www.thesoutherninstitute.com/2011/09/creative-me-monday_18.html?utm_source=BP_recent
Hope to see you there!
Jenny
Super cute idea. I am your newest follower. Feel free to check out my site and follow me back here: http://www.utahcountymom.com
Those signs are adorable. Thanks for the how to. I featured this at So Very Creative.
http://soverycreative.blogspot.com/2011/09/multi-colored-vinyl-signs.html
Great idea, I love it! I would love for you to link it up at my Do Something Crafty linky party: http://vanessascraftynest.blogspot.com/search/label/Do%20Something%20Crafty%20Friday
Super cute! I'm following your blog now…I'd love for you to link up to my new linky party – Creative Genius @ http://www.thecreativepaige.com!
These signs are so great!! Makes me want a cutter that much more!! I would love it if you would stop by and share them at my linky party!
http://everything-underthemoon.blogspot.com/2011/09/bedazzle-me-monday-1.html
Coloring and that texture is perfect with your work. I never thought to use registration marks, it is great idea to start with it.
This is a great tutorial! I found you via the Frugal Friday linky party over at The Shabby Nest. (I voted for your candy corn mug!) 🙂
I can't wait to check out your other posts. I would love for you to do a guest post over at my blog, http://call-me-nif.blogspot.com!
Comfortable brand new experience, the sole principle instructing Amber’s processing of mermaid wedding dresses. Our refined selection reaches an agreement between secured fabrics and the effect of airy lightness. So the dresses naturally flatter your figure and adjust slightly the focal point to realize a harmonious wedding dresses 2012 atmosphere. Best wishes, for your pleasant easy mood in Amber's tea length wedding dresses.