Andrew Hand

Photography News Magazine (UK) readers have nominated the Hahnemühle Natural Line Range Best Inkjet Media: Fine Art Finish Award for 2020. This is the second award for the recently launched range, following on from the TIPA World Award in the category “ Best Inkjet Photo Paper “as voted by the editors and publishers of 30 photo and imaging magazines in 2020.

“We are delighted to have been awarded Best Inkjet Media: Fine Art Finish by the Photography News readers. Hahnemühle has led the market in FineArt Inkjet paper for the past 20 years, developing innovative products as we move with market trends that reflect the needs of fine artists, photographers, printmakers and illustrators. The Hahnemühle Natural Line brings us to a new market first, using highly renewable fibers – bamboo, hemp and agave – while maintaining high performance and longevity. In recent years, we’ve seen professional artists and photographers become increasingly concerned about the environment and look for ways to reduce their impact. Our new environmental choices of fine art media are one way of reducing environmental impact while retaining the sensation of the printed image ”comments Simon Waller, Hahnemühle UK General Manager.

Made from bamboo, hemp and agave and 100% cotton rag fibers, the Hahnemühle Natural Line is produced in an end-to-end sustainable manner setting environmental standards that Hahnemühle exemplifies with its Green Rooster Initiative.

Since 2008, Hahnemühle have been supporting both regional and international environmental protection projects through their ‘ Green Rooster’ initiative, including reforestation, animal protection and environmental education programs. These projects are very important to the brand, a share of the profits from the Natural Line has directly contributed to environmental and climate protection. To date, more than EUR 220,000 has been donated to various environmental initiatives. Furthermore, Hahnemühle pledge to continue donating 5% of the profits from their ‘green’ paper ranges.

For artists and photographers wishing to discover the range for themselves and which surface suits their work, a trial pack is available, including two sheets of bamboo, two sheets of hemp and two sheets of agave. With its Natural Line, Hahnemühle inspires exquisite printing finishes for environmentally conscious photographers and artists.

About Hahnemühle

Hahnemühle is regarded as the inventor of Digital FineArt paper for inkjet printers. For more than 20 years, the oldest German paper manufacturer has been leading the way in producing true artist papers for photography and art reproductions. The papers – made with over 435 years of manufacturing experience – all receive a special coating that does not affect the exquisite feel of the papers. The inkjet coating produces prints with razor sharp details, bold colours and deep blacks. All papers have an excellent resistance to ageing. The Hahnemühle Digital FineArt Collection offers more than 20 different types of paper, and the Hahnemühle Photo range includes eight types of media. Awarded ‘Brand of the Century’, Hahnemühle enjoys an esteemed reputation worldwide among artists, photographers, museums, galleries and collectors.

HP Inc. has introduced a range of new Latex large format print solutions to help print service providers diversify their offerings and meet more challenging customer needs. After a year of business disruption across the large format industry, the HP Latex 700 and 800 series brings a suite of features that enable PSPs to be more agile, tackle ambitious projects and take on the highest value work. The new portfolio also delivers fast workflows that help businesses hit deadlines, while sharpening their sustainability edge.

HP Latex 700 / 800 Series Printers

The new HP Latex range consists of four devices – the HP Latex 700 and 800, and the HP Latex 700W and 800W which offer white ink capability for the first time in this category. It is the whitest white ink available on the market that does not yellow over time, enabling print businesses to produce neater outlines and add more contrast to darker spots.

Meanwhile, updated printheads possessing more nozzles and producing speeds of up to 36 m2/hr (388 ft2/hr) allow the HP Latex 800 and 800W to offer 50% higher productivity levels compared to previous HP models. Print jobs executed on the new 700/800 Series will deliver with vivid colours and finer image and text details, even at faster print speeds. Operationally, HP PrintOS also enables PSPs to monitor and control their print fleet using a cloud-based interface they can use virtually anywhere, anytime.

Recent HP research reveals that 85% of PSP customers now demand sustainable products and practices. To meet this requirement, the new Latex products continue to build on HP’s long-lasting commitment to sustainable printing. All four devices in the HP Latex 700 and 800 series use the HP Eco Carton – a cartridge made with cardboard material, reducing the amount of plastic used by 80%. HP’s water-based inks are also kinder to the environment.

Improved HP Latex Print and Cut Plus

In related news, HP has also introduced an updated Latex Print and Cut portfolio that is fully compatible with the Latex 700 and 800 Series. Equipped with the latest Raster Image Processor (RIP) software and completely new contour cutters, the devices allow for improved usability - making jobs easier and more intuitive than ever for signage and decorative printed applications.

The HP Latex Print and Cut Plus Portfolio includes the following products:

• HP Latex 335 Print and Cut Plus Solution
• HP Latex 315 Print and Cut Plus Solution
• HP Latex 115 Print and Cut Plus Solution
• HP Latex 64 Plus Cutting Solution
• HP Latex 54 Plus Cutting Solution
• HP Latex 54 Basic Plus Cutting Solution

Updated features include optimized cutting accuracy through the enhanced Optical Position System (OPOS) configurations. As part of this improvement, the HP cutter reads the black inner lines along the job and carries out additional measurements, further aided by new HP barcodes located on the printed sheets to identify jobs. Cutting on the new Latex 64 and 54 Plus Cutting Solutions is enhanced by a higher cutter downforce of up to 600 grams.  This provides the necessary pressure to deliver accurate cutting performance even on thicker media.

The user experience on the colour touchscreen interface is highly responsive and includes an improved menu, making the entire solution simple to work with. The media basket also features a refined design and now has a smaller footprint when folded, enabling businesses to make better use of space.

Revamped HP PageWide XL 

Completing the announcements from HP are the new additions to the HP PageWide XL suite of large format print solutions. Aimed at enterprise and mid-market companies, as well as print reprohouses serving the architecture, engineering and construction industries, the new HP PageWide XL devices provide fast, simple, and secure solutions.

The new range includes the following printers:

• PageWide XL 3920 MFP
• PageWide XL 4200 Printer and MFP
• PageWide XL 4700 Printer and MFP
• PageWide XL 5200 Printer and MFP
• PageWide XL 8200 Printer

The new HP PageWide XL printers deliver on the productivity needs of users while offering an improved experience. With the 4200, 4700 and 5200 models boasting a larger front panel - increased to 15.6 inches (from 8 inches) - it is easier for users to preview real-time scans and undertake more complex printing tasks. Additionally, for the first time, users can carry out post-editing tasks, including crop, contrast, brightness, and rotation directly from the panel.

For IT managers and CAD designers at enterprise and mid-market businesses, security is a major priority. The new PageWide XL solutions respond to this with new features to protect businesses in an increasingly connected world; including HP SecureBoot, Whitelisting and HP Connection Inspector - making the new PageWide XL range the world’s most secure large format printers.

Availability

The HP Latex 700 and 800 Series, the updated HP Latex Cut and Print Plus Solution, as well as the new additions to the PageWide XL portfolio, are expected to be available from all major markets starting Early February.

About HP Inc.

HP Inc. (NYSE: HPQ) creates technology that makes life better for everyone, everywhere. Through our product and service portfolio of personal systems, printers, and 3D printing solutions, we engineer experiences that amaze. More information about HP Inc. is available at www.hp.com.

In the sign & digital industry and beyond Summa is known to be one of the forerunners when it comes to roll cutting technology.  To date, the company has provided many sign-making companies infinate and reliable cutting solutions with its roll cutter series.  But standing still is not an option and product development and innovation are highly regarded purposes for Summa.

Therefore, Summa is proud to announce a brand new roll cutter product line which is called S One.  The S One Series is the next step in Summa's mid-level roll cutting machines and replaces the former SummaCut roll cutter series.  To optimise quality ergonomics as well as efficiency, the S One Series is built completely from the base, using the experience and knowhow acquired over years of developing roll cutters.  The name S One refers to the core idea behind its development:

The One to change the game.

Increase productivity, quality and capabilities

The S One series not only showcases a new, sleeker and more modern look.  It also embodies add-ons and enhanced features for better quality, improved ergonomics and higher productivity.  The improvements and additions include:-

• User-friendly GoSign software to manage cutting workflows with great flexibility
• Efficiently drag cutting head, allowing up to 600 grams of cutting force
• Ergonomic touchscreen, allowing for effortless navigation
• Robust OPOS sensor, increasing the speed at which registration marks are read
• Improved internal intelligence, minimising human errors and operator intervention
• Excellent tracking performance for ultimate accuracy
• OPOS Xtra functionality for flawless processing of very small sticker jobs
• Smart FlexCut feature, enabling to perforate material to remove the deisgn out of its carrier easily

Future-proof cutting solution

The products developed by Summa stand out for reliability, longevity and versatility.  Faithful to this tradition and conviction, also the new S One product line is built according to strict requirements, specific to Summa products.  The S One series is, therefore, designed with premium up-to-date components for long durability.  Moreover, its combination of innovative features makes the S One roll cutter a flexible and future-proof unit, able to grow along with the customer's business aspirations and goals.

Christof Van Driessche, Chief Commercial Officer, Summa adds: "With the experience and dedication on board, Summa continues to show true leadership as a supplier of high-end cutting solutions.  The introduction of the S One roll cutter series is yet another milestone in Summa's large history of legendary performance.  The S One Series will unquestionably bring added value and innovation to many sign makers' cutting workflows.

About Summa

Every day, for over three decades, Summa delivers the world's highest-quality vinyl and contour cutters, finishing flatbeds and laser cutters without compromise.  Summa provides cutting edge solutions for the printing, signage, display, apparel and packaging industries.  Summa's global headquarters is located in Gistel, Belgium.

As so often with a new message you want to convey to visitors, it should not take too much time and or cost too much money. If it's a very important message, for example about social distancing rules, then a speedy completion is even more important. Fortunately, floor stickers offer a helping hand because they are easy, inexpensive and quick to apply. In this blog, we explain how you can use floor stickers to communicate social distancing rules quickly and easily, and provide some practical (application) tips. In any case, by reading this blog you have already completed your research.

Tip 1: Choose floor graphic media that already has a bright colour

For social distancing guidelines, you will need to create a line or markings, behind which visitors should wait. It makes sense to use a bright color so that it is easily noticeable. Solvoprint's dot print 'n' walk R10 film is ideal for this application, as it's available in white, eye-catching yellow and red, and also in convenient adhesive tape form for easy application of your markings. This film does not need to be printed, but can be cut to contour shape for easy, bubble-free application. Solvoprint dot print 'n' walk R10 is also highly slip-resistant; thanks to its special honeycomb structure, the film has an R10 anti-slip surface after printing with latex and (eco) solvent inks (an R9 anti-slip surface applies when using UV inks). Do you want to remove the film after some time? That's easy too, without leaving any adhesive residue (on most common smooth surfaces).

Tip 2: Use materials that already have a slip resistance without laminating/strong>

In addition to the already mentioned solvoprint dot print 'n'walk R10, there are fortunately other floor stickers that already have good slip resistance and therefore do not need to be laminated. This saves a lot of time! UV print 'n' walk power-tack, a floor sticker that is ideal for difficult surfaces such as concrete, carpet and textiles. This highly adhesive floor sticker is R9-certified when using UV inks and is suitable for indoor and outdoor use in dry conditions. However, UV dot print 'n' walk or FILMOfloor Rug 'n' Wall also have good slip resistance. The latter is a film with a textured PVC coating that does not require an additional laminate, as it is already certified for R12 slip resistance.

Tip 3: Create simple but eye-catching designs for your floor stickers

Designing your stickers doesn't have to be difficult. The most important thing is that your message stands out and continues to do so. That's why you should keep the message short and concise. Make sure people know at a glance where they should stand, what they should or shouldn't do, and what else is important.

Here are some tips on what messages can be printed on the stickers

• A reminder to keep the minimum distance
• A warning not to enter if you have symptoms
• A reminder to follow one-way streets or other directions
• To adhere to the occupancy/person limit of a space
• Approved means of payment (and not accepting cash, if applicable)
• The local face protection policy
• Notice of where to clean hands and/or baskets and shopping carts
• Adjusted hours of operation/special visiting hours for at-risk groups. 

In addition, it is important to make the message on the sticker clear by using a font that is easily visible from a distance. The round circle sticker is a favorite. This is mainly because the sticker is less likely to curl, but also because of the design possibilities of this sticker. Do you want to indicate where people can sit or not? Design a simple red or green circle sticker with a check mark or cross.

Remember to use highly visible colors, preferably those that contrast well with each other. Do you want to display a waiting area? Create a design with two shoe prints. It's immediately clear where customers or visitors need to stand! Be sure to change the color or design over time. This keeps visitors aware and ensures your message stands out. For example, do you want to mark a safety zone in a workplace, but the traditional yellow/black line isn't enough to catch the eye? Then choose colored circles with a small diameter to indicate the safety distance from the employee.

One last tip: use the stickers at contact points where many people pass by (entrance, cash register, restrooms, etc.), but don't overdo it! If you use too many different places, there is a risk that the stickers will no longer stand out and people will unconsciously see them as "background noise"

Tip 4: A correct application also means faster and longer-lasting results

If you don't have much time, you might rush the application process and get undesirable results. Worst case scenario, you might even have to do it all over again. So make sure, you apply your floor decals in the best way possible with these tips:

• If you notice oily contaminants on the surface, use alcohol or a mild solvent as a pre-cleaner. Make sure the contaminants are completely removed before proceeding with cleaning. 
• Use a mild surfactant-based cleaner. This should be free of enzymes. Make sure that the entire surface is cleaned and that the cleaner does not leave any residue.
• The size of the cleaned area must be at least 20 cm larger in all directions than the planned area application area.
• Make sure that the floor is dry and clean and use lint-free cloths for drying.
• Are you ready for application? Remove some of the release paper and apply the adhesive side to the substrate. Then remove the release liner evenly. Avoid placing the edges of the decal over notches or crevices such as joints. Use a squeegee or hand roller to press the decal from the center toward the edges. Watch for air bubbles and make sure the entire decal has contact with the surface.

A new year means new interior design trends. In this blog, we will show you the top trends of 2021 and how to implement the different styles with self-adhesive furniture films. With easySTYLE self-adhesive films you can easily redesign any interior like stores, exhibition booths or private living spaces. With the interior design film you can create a new look in no time – a sustainable solution to implement new interior trends.

Trend 1: Light wood

Last year, we already saw a lot of light wood, especially in Scandinavian-style interiors. In 2021, we will also see light wood in industrial-design-themed spaces and more luxurious interiors. If you want to follow the trend, opt for light-coloured wood like Acacia wood, bamboo, light oak or light MDF. This trend is perfect not only for floors and wall accents but also for furniture. Do you want to change the decor at the POS or do you have furniture that is still in good condition but out of date? With easySTYLE scratch-resistant interior design films – available in 15 different designs – you can easily transform existing furniture. This film is suitable for applications on almost all smooth surfaces such as plywood and MDF boards, solid wood, plastics, metal and painted surfaces.

Walls or cabinets and sideboards look great with the easySTYLE designs Ashton, Sonoma Oak or Rovere Gessato. Complete the look by adding an industrial vibe with black steel elements. Ideal for private living spaces, stores or trade show construction. Are you crazy about the Scandinavian style? Combine light woods with white accents such as marble. For this style, you can use easySTYLE White Super Matt and create beautiful combinations.

Ashton	Sonoma Oak	Rovere Gessato
White Super Matt	Whiteboard	White High Gloss

Trend 2: Gray as a basic colour for interior design

Gray is back and we will see a lot of it in 2021. It is perfect as a wall colour instead of using standard white. Walls look more luxurious in a soft shade of gray, and a beautiful painting will stand out better. If you are not convinced yet, incorporate gray on cabinets or sideboards only. Concrete imitations are a nice way to add a gray look to an interior. Concrete is also ideal, if you want to give a rustic look to private living spaces, a retail store, a trade show booth or restaurant in an easy and budget-friendly way. With the perfect concrete imitation of easySTYLE Meton Concrete, a concrete look does not require a costly renovation. Or opt for a gray marble look with easySTYLE Caspio or easySTYLE Haitabu. easySTYLE is also a good choice in terms of sustainability. In addition to the reusability of existing furniture, the material has a certified chemical resistance (DIN68861), is PVC-free and is based on paper.

Meton Concrete

Casipo

Haitabu

Trend 3: The Mid-Century Modern Style

Do you want to decorate a restaurant, your private living room or a store interior in a cool Mid-Century Modern style and are you looking for inspiration? Just turn on the famous TV show Mad Men. The decor and clothes perfectly portray the Mid-Century style. Think dark wood, lots of light, combined with touches of gold, copper or brass and modern details. A hit back then, this style is now coming back. This year, we will see more and more of the characteristic elements of the 60s style. These include kitchens in dark wood, like dark oak or walnut, and cabinets with rounded finishes instead of corners. Oval and round kitchen tables are also on the rise. With easySTYLE Catanio Oak, with its warm, dark wood design, you can transform smooth and flat surfaces in the kitchen quickly and easily.

And do not forget about the combination with gold or copper. By adding easySTYLE Meton Gold or Meton Copper, you can create great accents.

Catania Oak

Meton Gold

Meton Copper

Trend 4: Simple, black interiors with striking details

Not entirely new, but still a trend: black and minimalistic designs. We have seen this many times in the past years. This year, the minimalist look is combined with dark woods and other dark colours, such as black oak or dark walnut. The easySTYLE Anthracite Super Matt design fits perfectly into this style with its anthracite matte colour.

With easySTYLE self-adhesive films, you can quickly achieve a high-quality black matte style, which is great for stores and exhibition stands that need frequent and easy renovation. If black is too dark for you, opt for easySTYLE Kiruna with its dark gray design. For a stylish finish, create combinations with eye-catching accents that stand out. 

Anthracite Super Matt

Kiruna

What trends will you be working with?

Interior trends are ever-changing. So in case you want to redecorate again in the future, you can easily remove easySTYLE interior films without leaving any adhesive residue. Do you already have an idea of how you want to implement the new interior design trends? Or would you prefer to take a closer look at the easySTYLE designs first? Feel free to contact us to request a sample, before you get started with the beautiful interior trends of 2021.

Onyx Graphics Inc., today announced today that its industry-leading RIP software has been named the 2020 Best Colour Management Solution at the annual EDP awards, marking the second award from EDP for best colour management since 2018. The winners are selected by a commission of experts (The EDP Technical Committee), which evaluates the submitted products on technical abilities and product innovation that improves speed, quality, performance and cost.

“Onyx Graphics has always had colour at its­­ core,” said Matt Crawford, Director of Product Marketing at Onyx Graphics. “To be recognized again by the experts that make up the EDP panel reaffirms our commitment to providing industry-leading colour output that PSPs around the globe can truly rely on.”

Highlights of ONYX software Color Tools:

• DeviceLink+ for synchronized color output across devices and direct input to output profiles 
• ColourCheck for color accuracy, consistency, and conformance to global standards 
• iccMAX v5 profiling for output accuracy AccuBoost to iterate and fine-tune ICC profiles 
• Swatch Books 2.0 for fast, easy colour-matching
• GCR+ for up to 30% ink savings without compromising saturation 
• PosterColour 2.0 for smart rendering intent for increased saturation of solid colours
• ONYX Colour Engine explicitly designed for wide-format print applications

About the EDP Awards

The EDP Association (European Digital Press Association) was founded in 2007 by six magazines with a special focus on digital technologies. Today the EDP has 20 member magazines from all over Europe, covering 25 countries and reaching more than half a million readers (printed editions only). One of the declared goals of the EDP Association is to help users find the right solutions for their applications. Meanwhile, the EDP Awards are highly regarded in the market and are a strong reference point. Each year, experts from the EDP circle evaluate the latest technologies and product developments in categories such as hardware and software, large/wide format printing, commercial printing, industrial solutions, finishing and consumables. The best products in each category are honored with an EDP Award. Since 2007, the EDP has handed over around 360 awards for the best technology and product developments – now 29 awards are being added this year.

About Onyx Graphics Inc.

Leading the market since 1989, Onyx Graphics is dedicated to helping customers increase productivity, reduce costs and gain a competitive edge with superior print and colour quality. It's passion for delivering superb colour led to the development of ONYX Color, Onyx Graphics' own colour engine optimised for large format inkjet printing. Innovative, productive and satisfied customers around the globe help motivate the company to continually develop and enhance its leading-edge technologies. Global channel partnerships and longstanding relationships with printer manufacturers position Onyx Graphics as a market leader in powerful, reliable, large format printing workflow software.

Adobe and Adobe PDF are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Adobe Systems incorporated in the United States and/or other countries. ONYX and ONYX PosterShop are registered trademarks, and ONYX Thrive, ONYX RIPCenter are trademarks, of ONYX Graphics, Inc. All other product and company names are trademarks or registered trademarks and are the property of their owners and are respectfully acknowledged.

Summa is proud to announce a range of improvements on its renowned F Series flatbed cutters. The flatbed cutters have been one of the most versatile products in Summa's range for many years. By improving the range, Summa brings its standard to the next level when it comes to quality, reliability and productivity. Summa is excited to present a new size of flatbed cutter, an enhanced safety system and its GoProduce software. These updates will contribute to an even better alignment of the F Series to realize present and future customer projects.

Meet the F1432: New size, new opportunities

The new F1432 flatbed cutter, available in December, accommodates users in the sense that it opens the possibility to process popular 137 cm/54" roll widths more efficiently. Moreover, the increased working length gives a sufficient margin to easily cut 3m/10ft jobs. For many businesses, this size represents the ideal interim solution between the F1612 and F1832 size.

Elice van Es, Summa’s Marketing and Communication Manager explains: “We are seeing a great fit in the market for our new F1432 flatbed cutter. The F Series flatbed cutters are appreciated for their versatility and performance and this new size underlines our philosophy. Thanks to the great number of applications that can be cut, we are convinced this flatbed cutter will benefit many customers’ businesses.”

Integrated Safety System for a safe and accessible work environment

Another major update on the F Series is the integration of a Safety System on all F Series models. The new system complies to worldwide health and safety requirements and thus represents Summa’s new standard in making the F Series operator’s work environment safer than ever. It features multiple sensors that can quickly detect human movement close to the machine. With the system’s convenient location on the top beam, the flatbed can now be accessed easily and safely. This in contrast to the former safety poles that are no longer needed.

Automatic Depth Control on the left side

The ADC feature on the F Series automatically sets the knife depth and the orientation of the knife/tool. The tip of the knife/tool is measured accurately and the down position of the tool is set to the flatbed’s level, guaranteeing a flawless cut at all times. This feature was already included for the right slots of the flatbed’s cutting head and proved its practicality. Now, Summa also makes ADC left standard available for all F Series models, which is the next step in production and operation efficiency.

GoProduce 2.0 software to perfectly match the F Series hardware

Along with the F Series enhancements related to hardware, it is the software that enables the operator to make good use of the machine’s functionalities. Therefore, Summa continues to develop its GoProduce software and now presents GoProduce 2.0. It is standard delivered with each new F Series and offers various new functionalities. While the standard integrated software includes many functionalities already, new is the availability of a Pro Pack. This Pro Pack is a one-time purchase and offers even more functionality to the F Series operator who wants to maximise his cutting workflow possibilities. For more information visit www.summa.com.

Elice van Es concludes: “Constantly listening to the market and analysing the needs of our customers is an important basis for us in the development of new products. We also believe that hardware and software should always be in harmony enabling us to offer users a complete solution and deliver true ease of use. Ready to create innovative and striking applications and tap into new markets. This is exactly what makes the Summa F Series so unique. The Series grows at the customer’s pace and needs alongside with evolutions in the industry.”

About Summa

Every day, for more the 3 decades, Summa delivers the world's highest-quality vinyl and contour cutter. finishing flatbeds and laser cutters without compromise. Summa provides cutting edge solutions for the printing, signage, display, apparel and packaging industries. Summa's global headquarters is located in Gistel, Belgium.

Whether library stock or a privately owned page-turner - books that we want to preserve in the long run can be protected against damage simply with a range of easy-to-use products from Neschen.  In this article, we present some helpful tips for preserving your books.

Simple solutions for paperback covers, book spines, labels, or book pages

Everyone who likes books knows, they get pretty worn out after a few years.  In public libraries, this process takes place even faster.  After a short amount of time, some books need to be replaced altogether.  To save money and resources, many of the most commonly occurring damages can be easily repaired or prevented altogether.  This way, you can preserve the book in the long run.

Quick and easy application

Filmolux® Soft is a protection film that is very easy to apply and that allows for small application errors to be corrected easily.   There is also a PVC-free alternative - Filmolux® Soft PP.  Thanks to their reduced initial strength, it is very easy to apply the film bubble-free.  With the grid on the back liner, the film can be cut into shape.

Reinforcing or repairing the inner book spine of paperbacks

Anyone who likes to read paperbacks knows the inner book spine is usually one of the parts that get damaged first.  It is a pity if a favourite book falls apart completely.  In public libraries, the books are exposed to even greater strain.  Unfortunately, some readers do not always treat the books with care.

Fortunately, this damage can be avoided or even repaired relatively easily.  With Filmoplast® P90 you can strengthen the inner book spine efficiently.   The self-adhesive, wood-free and tear-resistant special fleece is easy to apply and protects your books from falling apart in the long run.

If you do not want to spend the time or money to equip all books before the damage occurs, Filmoplast® P90 is also an excellent choice.   Dismantled book spings and torn out pages can be effectively repaired.

Preserving book labels

Almost every library uses self-adhesive labels for inventory management.  Unfortunately, these come off quickly.  Having to constantly renew the labels not only causes avoidable costs but also takes a lot of time.

Filmolux® 609 label protection is a good solution.  These pre-cut protective films can be easily removed from the silicone paper.  The product is a self-adhesive, glossy, crystal-clear soft PVC film with spontaneous initial adhesion.

For libraries, it is a great benefit that Filmolux® 609 is washable and resistant to a wide range of cleaning agents and solvents.  This film is coated with a solvent-free, age-resistant and permanently elastic acrylic adhesive.

Onyx Graphics inc., today announced the global availability of ONYX 21, the company's newest software version release.  ONYX 21 introduces Swatch Books 2.0 to print, scan, iterate and report on the ideal colour match, with options to add print mode defined colours in a single click.  Intuitive PDF tile maps to streamline tile job workflows and help guide installation with the ability to produce tile maps before, during or after printing that can be automated using ONYX quick sets.  Combined with new dynamic print label capabilities, ONYX 21 delivers innovative tools for print shop branding with the flexibility to connect to existing business tools.

"We're amazed at the response ONYX 21 has already received through our virtual launch events," said Matt Crawford, Director of Product Marketing at Onyx Graphics.  "Customers are already seeing the impact of Swatch Books 2.0 with fast colour matching, while new print label capabilities are providing opportunities both inside and outside their print shop".

Highlights of ONYX 21 include:

• Print, scan, iterate and report on the ideal colour match using Swatch Books 2.0
• Add print mode defined colours in a single click
• Generate colour-managed tile maps for installation, customer transparency and print job previews
• Automate tile maps on any job using Quick Sets 2.0
• Add images to print labels including logos for increase brand visibility
• Rotate print labels 180 degrees on banners and canvas prints
• Generate dynamic QR codes with important job information
• Connect to existing business tools using barcodes or QR codes
• The latest Adobe technology including Adobe PDF Converter APC 3.1

Availability

ONYX 21, covering the entire product portfolio of ONYX solutions including ONYX Thrive print workflow software; and all ONYX RIP products is globally available. it is available to all ONYX Advantage customers by requesting a key update and to all other customers through a license purchase. Onyx Graphics will be providing special promotions throughout the world in the next few weeks and an incentive to upgrade.

About Onyx Graphics Inc.

Leading the market since 1989, Onyx Graphics is dedicated to helping customers increase productivity, reduce costs and gain a competitive edge with superior print and colour quality. It's passion for delivering superb colour led to the development of ONYX Color, Onyx Graphics' own colour engine optimised for large format inkjet printing. Innovative, productive and satisfied customers around the globe help motivate the company to continually develop and enhance its leading-edge technologies. Global channel partnerships and longstanding relationships with printer manufacturers position Onyx Graphics as a market leader in powerful, reliable, large format printing workflow software.

Adobe and Adobe PDF are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Adobe Systems incorporated in the United States and/or other countries. ONYX and ONYX PosterShop are registered trademarks, and ONYX Thrive, ONYX RIPCenter are trademarks, of ONYX Graphics, Inc. All other product and company names are trademarks or registered trademarks and are the property of their owners and are respectfully acknowledged.

Due to the current situation, you can spot floor graphic films almost everywhere. They are a great way to guide people through buildings and reminding them of the distance they should keep from each other. While walking, people have a habit of slightly looking down, making sure that there is nothing in their way that might trip them trip. This makes floor graphics an extremely effective tool for advertising and as orientation aids. However, for many, the use of floor graphics also raises many questions. In this article, we will cover the ten most frequently asked questions when it comes to working with floor graphics

1. Do I need to use a laminating film?

Not all floor stickers need to be laminated. Floor stickers that feature a textured surface can be printed on directly without lamination. These 2 in 1 floor graphics are extremely cost and time-efficient. A product example from Neschen's range is the print 'n' walk portfolio. To find out whether you need to laminate your floor graphics, check the material already has an anti-slip certification. Many of the readily available floor stickers consist of a removable PVC in combination with a textured, non-slip laminate. The laminate protects the design from dirt and damage and prevents people from slipping.

2. When do I choose a 2 in 1 floor sticker and when do I need stickers with an additional laminate?

This choice greatly depends on the length you are planning to use the sticker for. Protective laminating films are ideal for long-term applications, as they protect the inks from mechanical stress.

For short-term applications, ranging from a few weeks for up to 3 months 2 in 1 floor stickers can be used. They are a quick and cost-efficient alternative.

3. Which type of adhesive is suitable for my application?

Not all floor decals are suitable for every type of substrate. For difficult substrates like asphalt, concrete, wood, carpet or pavement it is best to choose a solution with a high-tack adhesive. This ensures optimal adhesion. Especially on substrates with wide joints, a high-tack adhesive is the best choice. For "regular", smooth surfaces, floor decals with the commonly available, removable adhesive are usually sufficient. If you choose a floor decal with a dot-shaped adhesive, the decals are easy to apply without air getting trapped underneath, making them ideal for large-scale applications.

4. Can I apply floor graphics outdoors?

Whether floor decals can be used outdoors depends on the type of adhesive. Most of Neschen's print 'n' walk films are equipped with a water-based adhesive. These films are recommended for indoor use. However, UVprint 'n' walk power-tack has a high-tack adhesive that is suitable for indoor and outdoor applications in dry conditions, e.g. in areas that have a roof.

In stores or any area where people enter from the outside, the surface of the decal can get wet from rain or snow. To prevent accidents, it is paramount that these decals are equipped with a non-slip surface and have a certified slip resistance. So which type of decal to choose depends on the conditions. In humid environments or areas where people walk barefoot (e.g. swimming pools), there are different requirements in dry areas such as supermarkets

The commonly used anti-slip R rating makes it easy to decide which floor sticker to choose for what type of application. It is used to grade the slip resistance of all sorts of floor stickers. R9 is the lowest anti-slip rating and material classified with an R13 grade has the highest slip resistance. Material that is not certified will always be less suitable than certified material. The required R-value depends on the type of environment the sticker will be used in.

5. Overview of R values

6. What is the easiest way to apply floor graphics

• Make sure that the substrate is undamaged, clean and free of dust and grease.
• If there are any signs of oil on the surface, you can use alcohol or a soft solvent for cleaning. Ensure that all types of residues are removed before proceeding with other cleaning methods.
• Proceed with a mild cleaning agent that is free of any enzymes.  Make sure that the entire surface is cleaned properly and that the cleaning agent is removed without leaving any residue.
• The cleaned area should be at least 20cm larger (in all directions) than the actual area the graphic will be applied to.
• Make sure that the floor is dry and clean.  When wiping the surface dry, use lint-free cloths only.
• Partially remove the film from its liner and press one part onto the application surface.  Then slowly and evenly remove the remaining material from its liner while pressing the graphic onto the application surface.  For best results, try to avoid that the edges of the sticker overlap over gaps and joints in the flooring.  Use a squeegee or roller to evenly apply the sticker from the center towards the edges.  Watch out for trapped air and make sure that the entire sticker has full contact with the substrate.
• If possible, use a design with rounded corners such as circles, as sharp corners and edges easily peel off and curl.

7. What is the best way to remove floor stickers?

Correct removal of your floor graphics ensures that no adhesive residue is left behind.  If you slowly peel off the decal at an angle (usually between 90 degrees and 135 degrees) it usually does not leave any residue behind.

8. How long do your floor graphics last?

How long can you use floor stickers for greatly depends on the type of application, the amount of foot traffic they are subjected to, and the type of environment they are used in.  Recommendations in terms of durability can be found in the technical data sheet of each material. During a one-year test phase, Neschen tested various floor graphics media in a supermarket. The graphics were applied at the cash registers and subjected to around 12,000 pedestrians and 30 cleaning cycles of a heavy-duty cleaning machine. After the test phase a team of experts evaluated each material a full report of this is available upon request.

9. Which type of ink should I use?

The type of ink you use affects the durability of your floor graphics.  Not all inks are equally scratch resistant.  If you choose to combine PVC with an anti-slip laminate, the ink layer is already protected against scratches or abrasion.  However, if you choose a 2 in 1 floor sticker material, it is important to consider the type of ink you will be using.  These materials are best printed with UV inks, the durability is then about 3 months depending on the circumstances.

10.  Can I test your materials?

The type of application you are planning usually determines the choice of material.  Since it is impossible to test every material on every possible substrate and under all conditions, we advise our customers to test the material they are planning to use please feel free to contact PSW Paper & Print for a free sample.