I noticied that some people apply text onto their robots.
I thought I would ask the question as someone may know, even though this is not limited to (in my case) robots.
Basically, what are my options for placing text and basic graphics onto ABS plastic, or especially ABS plastic enclosures.
I do not have the funds to send the unit out, use silk screen printing, lasers etc etc.
I would like a simple solution that I can use at home, with my inkjet printer.
I am not bothererd if the solution requires the application of some kind of clear plastic to stick onto the enclosure, as long as it looks OK, and at least semi-professional.
I do not want to hand write text, or worse still, print to paper and glue them onto the enclosure.
I was even thinking would this work? Take PCB photo developer spray, apply it to the enclosure. Print the text panal instead of a PCB layout and apply it, place it in the UV light as normal.
Would this work? Would it leave a black set of text, logos etc, as it would on a PCB?
I have been searching for a low cost solution that at least does not look messy, however, I have as of yet not found it.
One method I have used is either adhesive-backed foil, or paper. It is available in a variety of colors as well as silver and gold. It’s fairly cheap and you can use your favorite graphics program to design your faceplate, logo, graphics, or what-ever. I print a test sheet on regular paper before wasting any of the adhesive-backed stuff. I buy mine off eBay. It’s cheap, easy, reproducable, looks professional, and wears well.
What is adhesive-backed foil? Can this be used with inkjet printer? Do you peel and place directly on the ABS enclosure? Would you have any links to final products so I could get a feel for this and the finished result?
when i used to make role play minatures i’d use rub on lettering or water transfer letters and pictures which both work rather well (have a look in games workshop, a standard model shop or a stationary for the different types).
another trick is to create fixed flags…take some cooking foil and smear paper glue over one side (you know the white stuff you give to kids) then put another layer of foil onto the glued side and rub them together with a cloth so they are smooth. when the glue had dried spray both sides with white spray can paint. you can then used this flexible paintable base to create all manner of flags and banners and it looks very profesional.
thats pretty groovy too - hadnt been invented when i was a teenager but would have been very usefull (with a lttle time travel to get the appropriate printer + computer)
