all answers to questions that you didnt ask above.
my last line, answers your question.
This was not in your original post when I read it. Sorry if I acted like an "ass". Figuring out the questions in your op are things I have already considered.
Pro Wraps is right on this one. And if you go into this with the attitude of "oh, how hard can it be" you are in for a world of hurt.
Getting basic training from a friend is one thing. Installation issues are only about 30% of the battle. Hell, with some practice you can train a monkey to install vinyl - but how about design/ How about proper color management? What about the "art" of the installation - hiding seams (unless you are going seamless - and if it's your first wrap - good luck with that), stripping the car, proper surface preperation, etc.
You may be the nicest guy in the world, but your response to Pro Wraps makes you look like a know-it-all ass.
Gary
Design will not be a problem for me. I have experience in photoshop illustrator html css flexi and cad software. I know some of this doesnt apply to vehicle wraps but but maybe it would shed some light on my background.
I am confused about what vinyls to use and when to use them properly though. I dont want to purchase a cheap product and pass it on to a customer.
Yes, use cast, with a cast laminate.
Can't go wrong with 180c. Use the v3 version.
Thanks this is helpful.
This makes me think I can get the v3 next to blinker fluid at the auto parts store. Not sure what you are implying but it gives me the notion that you are leading me down the wrong path.
You have to learn to walk before you can run.
As the others implied, starting off on a Vibe or a similar vehicle is not the way to go when learning how to wrap - especially when it's the client's vehicle.
3M 180C V3 with a matching laminate is the right (best) material to use because it is a cast material that will conform to the irregular surfaces of the vehicle and won't lift up like calendered vinyl.
Since you're new, figuring what to charge and a time estimate would be nearly impossible. But, as a general rule, I take my material cost and double it (I sub out my printing), then add in my labor for design, travel and installation.
Checkers
Thank you. This is very helpful to me. When you estimate your materials do you multiply lineal foot by 4.5 divide by 12 to get your square feet? Meaning do you charge for all 54". I was thinking you would.
I wasnt throwing the "12 years of experience" in your face. I just wanted you to know that I am in the industry. This forum seems non to freindly to people who are just getting started or isnt in the industry. And I can understand this.
Right now I am crawling but I am trying to fit all the puzzle pieces together and a couple of those pieces happens to be estimating and vinyl.
This "friend" is actually a customer of the company I currently work for. We get along and I have helped him out in the past with areas in the industry he is not experienced in. Alot of this hinges on whether he wants to help or not.
I work for a company that has two locations. Here in florida and the other is in Colorado which happens to be the headquarters. If the economy doesnt get better closing my location is a real possibility. I would rather expand my knowledge and make myself more of a value then to collect unemployment till I can find a equal paying job. I am not looking to get rich just provide a decent quality of life to my family.
I appreciate your help and knowledge. If you think this is absolutely impossible for me to learn and do then I wont attempt it but if there is a slight chance for success - I in.
