Self Fit Van Graphics for Two Guys Automotive
Two Guys Automotive came to Printmonster with a visual showing how they wanted their work van to look. We developed their idea into finished artwork and produced a complete vinyl graphics kit for the customer to apply themselves.
The finished van shows how a supplied graphics kit can give a working vehicle a distinctive business identity without Printmonster carrying out the installation.
From a visual idea to finished van graphics
Two Guys Automotive is an auto repair centre based in Bloxwich, Walsall. The customer already had an idea of the appearance they wanted for their van and supplied us with a visual to work from.
Our job was to take that starting point and develop it into graphics suitable for the vehicle.
Rather than bringing the van to us for fitting, the customer wanted to apply the graphics themselves. Therefore, we needed to think beyond simply producing the vinyl. The finished kit had to be prepared in a way that would help the customer understand the intended positioning and application.
For businesses considering graphics for their own work vehicles, our van graphics for tradespeople service explains more about the different ways we can help turn a commercial vehicle into a recognisable part of a business.
Developing the customer's design
The starting point for this project was the customer’s own visual.
We used this as the basis for developing the vehicle artwork, working with their existing Two Guys Auto Repair Centre branding, contact information, website and location details.
The finished design uses a combination of black, white and bright blue across the vehicle. The large telephone number is clearly visible along the side, while the website and Bloxwich address form part of the lower graphics. The circular Two Guys Auto Repair Centre branding is used prominently on the bonnet, side and rear.
Because the customer was fitting the graphics, the design also had to translate from the visual into practical sections that could be positioned on the actual van.
Customers who have an idea but do not have finished vehicle artwork can also use our artwork and design service to discuss how their existing branding can be developed for print and graphics.
Producing the vinyl graphics kit
Once the artwork was prepared, we produced the graphics using quality cast vinyl. Printed elements were laminated to provide an additional protective layer over the print.
The kit contained the different graphic elements needed to create the finished design shown in the photographs.
This project is a useful example of why vehicle graphics do not necessarily start with finished print ready artwork. A customer may have a logo, some wording and a visual showing the general appearance they want. We can then look at what is required to turn that information into artwork suitable for production.
You can see the wider range of options on our vehicle graphics page.
A practical choice for indoor labels
Helping the customer fit the graphics themselves
Supplying graphics for customer installation requires clear information about how the vinyl should be handled.
Alongside the graphics, we supplied our comprehensive Vehicle Vinyl Fitting Instructions. The guide covers preparation and cleaning, checking and positioning each graphic, applying the vinyl, removing application tape, dealing with excess vinyl and working with graphics supplied in multiple sections. It also includes practical guidance covering trimming, gaps, joins, corners, edges, bubbles and final checks.
One particularly important part of the guide is checking the graphic against the supplied visual before removing the backing paper. This gives the customer an opportunity to check the position, orientation, alignment, joins and areas that may require trimming before application begins.
The guide also advises allowing the adhesive to settle for at least 48 hours after fitting.
Aftercare once the graphics are fitted
The kit was also supplied with our Vehicle Graphics Care Guide.
This provides practical information for looking after newly applied graphics, including allowing them time to settle and avoiding washing during the first few days. For ongoing cleaning, the guide recommends gentle hand washing with a soft sponge or cloth and mild vehicle shampoo, followed by thorough rinsing and drying with a soft microfibre cloth.
It also covers things to avoid, including automatic car washes, abrasive pads and stiff brushes, harsh chemicals, unsuitable polishes and using a pressure washer too close to edges, joins or lettering.
More detailed information is available in our vehicle graphics care guide.
The finished Two Guys Automotive van
The photographs supplied by the customer show the completed graphics installed on the van.
From the bold Two Guys Auto Repair Centre logo on the bonnet to the blue telephone number and angular graphics running along the sides, the finished vehicle follows the visual identity developed for the project. The rear graphics carry the contact details, Bloxwich address and business branding, making use of another highly visible area of the van.
Importantly, this was a customer fitted project. Printmonster designed and produced the graphics and supplied the fitting and care information, while Two Guys Automotive completed the application themselves.
That makes the finished vehicle particularly useful for showing what can be achieved when a customer is comfortable carrying out their own installation but needs support with the design and production of the vinyl.
Need graphics for your own work van?
If you have a work van that needs branding, send us some photographs of the vehicle together with your logo, wording, contact details and any examples or ideas you already have.
We can look at what you are trying to achieve and advise on the artwork and graphics required. If you are considering fitting supplied graphics yourself, tell us when you enquire so we can discuss the project with you.
Based in Cannock, Printmonster works with businesses and tradespeople throughout Staffordshire and the West Midlands, including Walsall, Wolverhampton, Birmingham and surrounding areas.
DIY Van Graphics FAQ
Can you work from my own vehicle graphics idea?
Yes. The Two Guys Automotive project started with a visual supplied by the customer. If you already have an idea, existing branding or an example of the appearance you want, send it to us with details of your vehicle and we can look at what is required to turn it into suitable artwork.
Can Printmonster supply van graphics for me to fit myself?
Some projects may be suitable for customer fitting. The requirements will depend on the design, vehicle and type of graphics involved, so it is best to discuss this with us before ordering.
Do you provide instructions with self fit vehicle graphics?
For this project, the customer received comprehensive fitting instructions covering preparation, positioning, application, trimming and final checks, together with separate vehicle graphics aftercare information.
What should I send when asking about van graphics?
Send photographs of the vehicle, including the sides and rear, together with the make, model and year where known. You can also send your logo, business wording, contact details and any visual examples or ideas you would like us to consider.
Ready to put your business on the road?
Whether you already have a clear idea for your vehicle graphics or need help developing the design, talk to Printmonster about what you have in mind. Send us some photos of your vehicle, your logo and the details you would like included, and we can advise on a suitable approach.
From design and vinyl production to professionally fitted graphics or suitable kits for customer fitting, we can help you find the right option for your vehicle and your business.