The Entrepreneurial Magazine For Coreldraw® Users Worldwide: Cover Art by Marian Miller Details On Page 7

CorelDRAW Pro
the entrepreneurial
magazine for
CorelDRAW®
®
users worldwide
May 2008
Cover Art
by
Marian Miller
Details on page 7
Published for the Association of CorelDRAW® Professionals (ACDRP) / www.coreldrawpro.com CONTENTS NEXT PAGE FULL SCREEN
CorelDRAW Pro
® May 2008
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CorelDRAW® Pro CONTENTS
May 2008
TRAINING: How to Use APPLICATIONS: How to Apply OPPORTUNITIES: How to Profit

ADVERTISER INDEX
Click “Web” to go to advertiser’s website.

Click “Ad” to go to the ad in this issue.
Clicking the ad itself will go to website.
Brother Int’L. Web Ad

28 Getting Ahead:
10 Using CorelDRAW: Conde Systems Web Ad
Expand Services with Print-and-
Basic Blend Tool Functions Cut Technology Corel Corp. Web Ad
by Dave Demoret by Deborah Sexton Custom Graphic Technology Web Ad
Epilog Laser Corp. Web Ad
17 Inside Transfers:
Transferring Images to Tiles 33 Marketing Secrets Geo. Knight & Co. Web Ad
by Bill Leek
Mind Your Own Business JBL Graphics Web Ad
by Donna Gray John E. Lepper Inc. Web Ad
20 Inside Screen Printing: 38 Traveling Tidbits:
Johnson Plastics Web Ad
The Printing Process Barbara Dorr, Laura Holt, Gary
Laser Reproductions Web Ad
by Jeff McDaniel LaserBits Inc. Web Ad
12 CorelDRAW Applied: Petersen, Morgan Petersen, and
LaserSketch Web Ad
The Object Manager: Layers the Navy Air Crew
by John McDaniel
22 Inside Sandblasting: by Otis Veteto N&R International Web Ad
Applying Adhesive to Masking Paramount Services Inc. Web Ad
Material ProLink Graphics Svc Web Ad
by Judy McDaniel Stahls’ ID Direct Web Ad
Mugs & Tiles The Magic Touch USA-1 Web Ad
24 Inside Engraving: Page 35
The Magic Touch USA-2 Web Ad
Hardware Design: Motors Part 2
by John McDaniel Universal Laser Systems Web Ad
15 Inside Color: The Raw Deal! 26 Inside Laser: Laser Engraving

by David Milisock Anodized Aluminum
by Louie Alvarez
DEPARTMENTS
5 Graphics News Wire 8 Inside ACDRP: 35 Product Focus: Mugs & Tiles 36 Marketplace
7 About the Cover New Road Show Format 36 GNN Network 37 Contributing Writers
Gets Rave Reviews
CorelDRAW Pro ® May 2008

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CorelDRAW® Pro
GRAPHICS NEWS WIRE
May 2008
Product News Headlines: NEWS

● Workhorse Products releases DETAILS
new video on Tuf Freedom (Click Here)
Press
● Transfer Express adds new 1"

size for prespaced names
● Xenetech announces VCS

communication upgrade
● R.S. Owens offers Quick

Shipping on Imprinted Awards
● TheMagicTouch transfer paper
● Platinum Pique golf shirt for approved for OkiData printers
● Stahls’ Hotronix designs new women from Sierra Pacific
Hover Press for DTG printing
● Organic baby blanket from SOS Calendar (Web Link)
● Conde Shipping DyeTrans 7880 From Texas Check out the upcoming training
and 9880 Systems ● In Memoriam: Norm Dobbins, classes and trade shows of
● Imprintables Warehouse 1947-2008
● Stahls’ ID Direct adds to releases new catalog interest to CorelDRAW users.
Management Team ● Blake & Hollister releases tone-
on-tone placket shirt ● Hirsch offers Twister Flash
● American Embroidery Supply Sequencing software
offers new Thermal Stick ● Conde opens West Coast
warehouse , ● SanMar debuts 2008 District
● R.S. Owens president presents Threads Collection catalog
on Power of Recognition ● Imprintables Warehouse adds
CAD-Color Solutions Sub Block
● Pantograms offers new LED
embroidery light ● Chouinard offers ultra-soft
upscale t-shirt
● SanMar releases RH Reserve
magazine Summer edition ● Hirsch offers new Draw Fusion
software
● Sawgrass Acquires TOG inkjet
business

5
CorelDRAW Pro
® May 2008
6
About the Cover
Marian Miller
Editor’s Note: This is the 4th cover Marian has done for us. Her first one was using objects (in this case flowers and leaves) you create.
scientific illustrations, the second was a stained glass pattern, and the third was a A repeat of the fountain fill can be achieved by
pattern from a real snowflake. Now, for this one, this versatile CorelDRAW artist has clicking on an object already filled with the fill you want
created a pattern using a variety of type fonts. to replicate and opening the paint bucket>fountain fill
flyout, then closing the dialogue and typing altE,R for
Compose the text and choose the fonts, and arrange the words in a manner that repeat. I think there is probably a way to do this with
produces a fairly equal spacing in width and breadth. Not all the fonts will end up the eyedropper tool, but I don’t know how.
being the same number of points in size. Create a curved or wavy line, and copy it The background lettering object, behind the
for each line of text. Fit each line of text to the line path. (Text>Fit to path). foreground letters in this sample, was made by
Ungroup the curved lines from the text and delete the lines. Convert each word grouping the text, then making an outline surrounding
into a separate letter (Arrange>Break apart text), and then convert each letter into an the objects (click on the ‘draw outline surrounding
object (Arrange>Convert to curves). objects icon) on the tool bar. Edit this object with the
Add a black hairline to the objects by selecting the whole group and right clicking node edit tool, and then create an outline of contrasting
on the black box in the color palette. Select letters one at a time, hit F10 to show the color by right clicking on a color box. The background
node edit menu, move the lines around to blend the letters with each other, or touch lettering and the framing rectangle can be made to
edges in an artistic manner. Adjacent letters (objects with a hairline outline) can be appear as a unit by using the node-edit option.
selected and the trim tool applied. Lastly, select just the text, and create a drop
To trim, click first on the object whose outline you want to preserve, then shift click shadow. Break apart the drop shadow (Arrange>break
on the object you want to trim, then click on the trim icon in the tool bar. The trim tool apart drop shadow) and use the node edit tool to make
sometimes leaves a mess of “nodes” behind and is more trouble than it’s worth, but sure that the margins of the drop shadow do not fall outside the outside dimensions
if one is careful how the nodes in the two objects are positioned with respect to each of the final rectangle. Use arrange>order>behind to place the drop shadow in back
other, it works well. How closely the nodes match in the two objects to be trimmed of the letters, but in front of the background rectangle.
makes the difference between a good “trim” and a messy “trim”.
Select all the letters and increase the hairline outline to 4 pts or 8 or the desired Summary of steps:
number of pts for thickness, and then convert the outlines to separate objects text to objects
(Arrange>convert outline to object). In wire frame mode (altV, W), it is possible to objects edited
see that the original letters remain, but there is also now a distinct new object (which objects outlined
is the outline of the thickened original-outline. outlines thickened
Fill the individual outline-objects using the paint bucket>fountain fill dialogue outlines converted to object
(choose custom over two color) and adjust the stripes (radial or square) and angle outlines outlined
(-45 for example) for each letter individually to give the effect of an arching color object outlines welded
scheme, sort of to match the arch of the lettering. By clicking on the center of each paint bucket, fountain fill, custom
letter-object, one can select the original letter shape, (also an object) and use the drop shadow desired layer
paint bucket>fountain fill dialogue to color the inside in a similar manner.
To create a background, select the rectangle tool and enclose the entire group of
letters. Then create an outline of 10 or 15 pts (as before), and change the outline to Contact Marian at marian@pdqpatterns.com or visit her site
an object also to mimic the rendition of the letters. Fill the background rectangle as at www.pdqpatterns.com
was done for the letters and letter outlines. Use the same steps with any additional 3945 Red Bud Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45229, 513-558-1715 (w)

7
CorelDRAW Pro APRIL 2008
®
Inside ACDRP
MAY 2008
EDITOR / PUBLISHER – Michael R. Neer

New MM.cdr Format
Wins Rave Reviews
By Mike Neer,
mikeneer@coreldrawpro.com
Executive Director
GRAPHICS – John Mise
ADVERTISING – John McDaniel II
jhmcdaniel2@coreldrawpro.com
541-990-6687 The 2008 Spring Tour of the answered. There is no charge
Making Money with CorelDRAW for this training as the event is
OFFICES Road Show (MM.cdr) has won sponsor-supported.
Membership & Publishing offices located at: rave reviews from attendees for ● FREE CDs. All attendees
4709 N. El Capitan, Suite 103, the knowledge gained through receive the 2008 Road Show
Fresno, CA 93722; the new format announced last Resource Guide CD Collection,
800-276-8428, 559-276-8494 Fax 559-276-8496 month. which features 6 different CDs
www.CorelDRAWPro.com full of information on products
editor@coreldrawpro.com Here’s what recent attendees and resources to help them grow
have said about the Road Attendees from the Tampa, FL, event enjoy their business (a $50 value). They
Subscriptions: Free to qualified individuals and Show: the Road Show presentation. also receive CorelDRAW X4
businesses. Send change of address to the above. “I learned much more than I Applied, a training CD produced
ACDRP Membership: $60/yr., See the website anticipated. It was worth facing Atlanta traffic and the hours by instructors John & Judy McDaniel (a $150 value).
for details. Includes exclusive content and more. spent away from my studio. Thanks a million!” Hector ● Better Time Schedule. The doors open at 11:30 am
Advertising: Request a Media Guide or download Bourg Jr., HBourg Designs, Stone Mountain, GA (used and the presentations go from Noon to 5 pm. This gives
it from www.CorelDRAWPro.com.
CorelDRAW since version 1) attendees more time to drive in for the event.
Writers: CorelDRAWPro accepts articles from
industry experts. Email publisher for details. ● Product Displays. Attendees will see many tables of
“Very enjoyable and informative seminar! The knowledge displays of sponsors’ products which will help to generate
© Copyright 2007 by ACDRP. I learned should save me valuable time and open new ideas for making money with CorelDRAW graphics.
All Rights Reserved. opportunities. I believe my business and customers
will benefit greatly.” Robert Palys, The Awards Palace, You can register for the Road Show at www.
Hanceville, AL coreldrawpro.com
“Great! Wish it was longer!” Monique Chadon, Awards & Check out the Digital Road Show
Engraving of St. Petersburg, St. Petersburg, FL If you aren’t near one of the Tour cities, then be sure
to check out the Digital Road Show,. This is a unique site
“Very helpful! Great in explaining things! Very patient, very that presents the highlights of the Physical Road Show. It
Published by Association of professional.” Pamela Gonzales, CC Creations, FL offers a way for any CorelDRAW user to order the 2008
CorelDRAW® Professionals Resource Guide CD Collection, and it offers direct links to
New Format all the sponsors – many of whom offer special coupons.
President: John H. McDaniel The new format for MM.cdr has four key features. Check it out at www.coreldrawpro.com
Vice President: Judith McDaniel ● FREE training. Attendees can hear an outstanding
Executive Director: Michael R. Neer presentation on the many ways to make money with Don’t miss either the Road Show or the Digital Road
Assoc. Exec. Director: Steven V. Neer CorelDRAW graphics, and they can get training on using Show this Spring! Both are good resources for your
ACDRP Corporate Office: Albany, OR CorelDRAW as well as get their practical questions business!

8
CorelDRAW Pro
® May 2008
9
Using CorelDRAW® Training
Basic Blend Tool Functions

By Dave Demoret, Contributing writer
Many people don’t use the Interactive Tools as much as they could, or maybe even this manner, you will probably use it more often. As in Figure 4, I have taken a blue
should. These tools will help you enhance your designs and can also help you create balloon and a red balloon to blend in 5 steps. Then I changed the color blend aspect
designs. In addition, they can also help you do them faster once you get a little by changing the color direction around the color palette.
experience with them.
If you want to change the number of steps and color,
The Interactive Blend Tool is the first Interactive Tool in the flyout menu, located just you will go to your property bar (fourth bar from the
below the Text Tool in your Toolbox. Let’s begin with a simple blend from one shape top). Here, either type in the number you wish or
to another and then we will put this one a path. use the arrows to select the number of steps. For
the color, select the direction icon for straight color
NOTE: (Remember that the Toolbox is on the left side of the screen and the blend, clockwise or counterclockwise around the
Toolbar is the third bar down from the top of the screen.) color palette. See Figure 5 for reference.
The beginning shapes I have chosen here are a balloon and The reason you may want to blend an image in this
a party hat (Figure 1). I want to blend one shape into the manner is to allow you, not only to get a color blend
shape of the other for a birthday banner. So, you draw your easily, but also to put that blend on a path. To do
two shapes a certain distance apart. Don’t worry about the this, create your image the way we did in Figure 4.
exact distance between Then, create you path by using the Freehand Tool,
them at this point. Just 3 Point Curve Tool, or by other means.
get somewhere close so
you don’t have to stretch Once you have your path created, go to your Blend
or change the blend later too much. Figure 2. Tool and click on your blended image. The next
step is to go back up to your property bar, while the
I’ve already made sure that these two images have blended object is still selected, and find the Path
no outline. An outline usually interferes with the Properties Icon as shown in Figure 6. Click on this
color and distributes black more than you normally icon and select the New Path from the pull down
want in your graphic. menu. At this point you will see an arrow with a
Now go click on your curved tail. Simply move this over the path you have
Blend Tool, then click created and left click on it. This will automatically put your blend on the path.
and drag from the balloon to the hat. This will give you
what the kids call morphing one shape into another. If the blend is too long or too short, just left click and drag one of the original end
Figure 3. objects to the position you wish.
One of the things that seem to be overlooked by many There are many designs in which you may wish to use the blend tool. Another creative
is the fact that you don’t have to ‘change’ shapes to use is shown in the simple blend of color in one single object.
use this tool. And, if you start using the Blend Tool in

10
Using CorelDRAW® Training
One of the samples shown traced from a photograph

in a previous article in March using the 3-Point Curve
(Create a Graphic from Basic Tool). You may use all
Shapes) was a cross. This is a variations to achieve
good example to show the use the effect you want in
of blending one color to another. a graphic including the
Once the cross is constructed Blend Tool.
and ready for color, select
the first color as a fill for the
cross. The next thing to do is
to create another shape to fill Dave Demoret, founded Prolink Graphic Services to help
with a second color. An ellipse people understand and profit from learning CorelDRAW. He
or square is fine but make it has been in both the Flat Graphics Industry and the Decorating
very small and eliminate the Graphics Industry over the past 30 years, and has written
outline. Then fill this shape several articles on Color Control & Matching in the past.
Dave has used CorelDRAW® since version 3 and became
a CorelDRAW Training Partner in 2006. During the past 5
years he has been conducting workshops all over the U.S.
with a color of choice. Follow the and is the author of several Video CDs & Instructional CDs on
sequence in Figure 9 to get to the CorelDRAW. Dave continues to conduct workshops in the U.S.
color blend. & also worldwide online. He can be reached at 765-DO COLOR
(362-6567) or by email at daved@prolinkgs.com
From here, select your Blend Tool
and click and drag from the small
shape to the cross. This will give
you the color blend. Now you can
select the number of steps you need
to get the smoothness of the blend
you need in the property bar at the
top of the screen.
This will also work for highlights in

some graphics including handle
bars on bicycles, highlights on car
fenders, and the like. Of course,
highlights can be achieved in many
ways in CorelDRAW as illustrated
in the Pressure Washer (Figure
10, in which the basic image was

11
CORELDRAW APPLIED
By Judy and John McDaniel Applications
The Object Manager – Layers

So far in our exploration of the Object layer, Layer 1. The master page has 3 layers;
Manager we’ve looked at the type of objects Guides, Desktop, and Grid.
you can have in a CorelDRAW layout -- Next to each layer name are 3 icons -- an
bitmap, vector, and hybrid/combinations. We eye, which controls display visibility; a printer,
considered object order and how that order which controls whether or not objects on the
impacts both print processes and vector layer print; and a pencil, which controls the
processes like engraving, vinyl cutting, etc. ability of editing objects on the layer. Each of
We’ve also explored how we can re-order these icons is a toggle. Left click the icon to
objects and create groups by dragging objects toggle the option on or off.
up and down in the Object Manager’s list. Additional layer functions are available on
In part 1 of this series we briefly the layer properties dialog screen, see picture
mentioned layers. This time we’ll expand our 3. In addition to the primary attributes of Visible,
exploration and show real-world examples Printable, and Editable, in this dialog screen
that demonstrate the value of layers. you can set a layer to master, which means
the layer will move to the master page and any
What are Layers? objects on that layer will appear on all pages in
Layers are an integral part of commercial a multipage document. You can also delete or
artwork. Many years ago, long before the Picture 1: There are two pages, Page 1 and the Master Page, in the rename a layer. Naming layers is sometimes
digital art revolution, I worked in Detroit for business card layout we’ve been working with. useful, especially if more than one person has
a commercial art studio that specialized access to, or works on a layout. It’s also useful
in photographing art of autos for magazine ads. We would often receive artist’s in templates.
renderings of vehicles with several variations. Each variation was on a clear acetate On the Layer Properties dialog screen, picture 3, you can set layer default color,
overlay. The overlay would modify some feature of the vehicle, perhaps color, trim override full color view, and limit layer properties to the current page only.
elements, or some other attribute.
We would take several shots including or excluding variations based on the Layer default color is used so the
client’s requirements. To vary the base drawing all we did was include or exclude designer can quickly identify objects on a
the appropriate overlay in the photo. specific layer in the display. The color only
Layers in any graphic art program are the digital equivalent of these acetate appears as an outline for objects on-screen
overlays. You, the artist, can include or exclude graphic objects by turning layers on when wire-frame view is selected from the
or off; i.e. including or excluding them in the output. That said, there are a number of menu; i.e. View/Simple Wireframe or View/
unique uses for digital layers. Wireframe. The color also appears when
Controlling Layers in CorelDRAW Override full color view is checked under Picture 2: Page 1 has only one
Before we get into uses, let’s review and expand on layer controls. Picture 1 Layer Properties. Layer color doesn’t affect layer, Layer 1. The master page
shows the business card layout we’ve been working with over the last few articles. output in any way. See picture 4. has 3 layers -- Guides,
You’ll notice there are two pages, Page 1 and the Master Page. Desktop, and Grid.
Picture 2 focuses on the layers that are on each page. Page 1 has only one

12
CORELDRAW APPLIED
Layer Organization
In the same way that objects are organized in a layout; top to bottom, front to
back; layers are also organized. That is, the layer on top is in front of all the other
layers in the layout. That means all the objects in the top layer are on top of all the
objects that are in layers behind or below.
In the same way that objects can
be dragged up and down in the list of
objects and thereby reorganized in a
layout, layers can also be dragged up
and down in the list of layers to reorder
them. The main difference is that all the
objects on the layer are moved with the
layer.
Finally, in the same way that vector
objects are cut in sequence, from the
Picture 3: On the Layer Properties
back to front, i.e. bottom to the top; they
dialog screen, you can set layer default
are also cut in layer sequence from
color, override full color view, and limit
the bottom layer to the top layer. That
layer properties to the current page only.
means for cutting operations, the bottom
object on the bottom layer is cut first, and the top object on the top layer is cut last.
See picture 4.
The Active Layer

Once you start working with layers, you need to know what layer you’re working
in. When you create a new object, import an object, or create a group; what layer
does that object or group
end up on? The short
answer is that any new or
imported object will land on
the active layer. In addition,
any group that’s created
with the group command
will be placed on the active
layer.
Ok, so in a multi-layer
document, which layer
is active? The Object
Manager will tell you. At the
Picture 4: For cutting operations, the bottom object top of the docker, the active
on the bottom layer is cut first, and the top object on
the top layer is cut last. Also, layer color
doesn’t affect output in any way. ►

13
CORELDRAW APPLIED
layer will be listed. In the list of layers and Picture 5: In

objects, the active layer’s name will be the list of layers
red. See picture 5. and objects, the
How do you make a layer active? - active layer’s
Simply left-click on its name in the Object name will be
Manager’s list. This is an area where red.
you need to exercise caution. When you
change a layer’s properties by clicking on one of its icons, you will often make that
layer active. If you create a group by dragging and dropping objects in the list, you
will make the layer you’re operating on active.
In short, make sure the layer you want to work in is active. If you’re not careful,
you may add objects to a layer unintentionally.
Using Layers to Re-draw a Logo

One of the first applications we found for layers was to redraw customer artwork
and logos. We converted their artwork from bitmap to vector.
In this application we
place the original artwork on
a layer, turn the layer off for
printing and editing. Then
create a new layer in front of
the bitmap layer and redraw
the customer’s art on the
new layer. This locks the
original artwork and permits
you to draw on top using the
original as a reference. See
picture 6.
Picture 6: You can use layers to re-draw a logo.
Conclusion
As you can see, layers have a number of useful functions. So far we’ve only
explored their usefulness in one single page application. Next time we’ll examine
additional applications.
Judy and John McDaniel are owners of JHM Marketing in Albany, OR. JHM provides
consulting and training services for the industry. They offer private training at their
facility in Albany and on location for corporate customers; as well as group training at
various events around the country. They can be reached by phone at 541-967-4271,
via SKYPE (user name JHMcDaniel), or via email at JHMcDaniel@CorelDRAWhelp.
com. See Bio Page for writers.

14
INSIDE COLOR
By David Milisock Training
The Raw Deal!

Now let’s pretend that we have an image to prepare for 40D, Canon EOS 450D / Rebel Xsi, Canon S5 IS, internal RGB color space. It identifies the camera used,
our client. Okay, so maybe we don’t have to pretend but Canon PowerShot G9, Canon PowerShot A720, Canon shutter speed, ISO rating, focal length and if the flash
the concept is the same. The image is a RAW capture PowerShot A460, Canon PowerShot A530, Canon was fired.
of a piece of artwork. The problem is that the artwork is PowerShot A650, Fuji IS-1, S100FS, Hasselblad H3D,
not on hand for us to see. Nikon Coolpix S6, Nikon D3, Nikon D60, Nikon D300, This update improves the serviceability of PHOTO-
Nokia N95, Panasonic DMC-L10, Panasonic DMC- PAINT. You can bet that future updates will support more
So we open the image in an aftermarket RAW converter FZ18, Pentax K20D, Olympus E-3, Olympus E-420, camera formats. It does not resolve the one service
and then we open the image again in the RAW converter Sony DSLR-A200, Sony DSLR-A300, Sony DSLR-A350, issue demonstrated by the images of our art. When color
that comes with Corel PHOTO-PAINT X4. An example Sony DSLR-A700. (Click here to download a complete is critical, you must maintain a process that allows you
of the results of the two different conversions is shown list from the CorelDRAWPro website.) to compare your conversions to the original art.
here.
The following RAW file formats will be listed in the Import The Raw Deal!
an Image and Open an Image dialog boxes: Adobe DNG, This is not a matter of the color we like, but a matter of
Kodak DCR, Pentax PEF, Leaf MOS, Sony SRF, SR2, what more closely matches the original. One can argue
ARW, and Panasonic RAW. about image when you have nothing to compare them
to, but when you have maintained the original copy until
Okay, so now you say, Groovy! What does this do for you have generated a proof. Then you can quantify what
me? You have more supported RAW formats and it you have done.
saves you having to buy a RAW converter if you don’t
want to. The RAW converter is responding faster and
►
that is a big plus for the application. However it still
identifies the as-shot white point differently than other
RAW converters do.
With that said, NONE of the RAW converters I’ve tested

I understand that you’re questioning why I used two identify the white point of the RAW test images as the
different RAW converters. The reason is to tell you same temperature. The captures you see here show the
about the new RAW support that will soon be available controls of the RAW converter. Please note that Corel
in Corel PHOTO-PAINT X4 with the release of the up processes the file by default as a 16 bit per channel/
and coming service pack (click here for details about 48 bit image. You will need to change this for most
the new SP1). workflows to 8 bit per channel/24 bit image.
Tons of new camera formats are supported. Here are Also the RAW converter has not shown any issues when
the new supported formats: Apple QuickTake 200, using different internal RGB color spaces. The converter
AVT F-080C, Canon EOS-1Ds Mark III, Canon EOS picks up and converts the image to PHOTO-PAINTS

15
INSIDE COLOR
The image on the left is most often picked by individuals

as the one that they like better. However when the artist
sees them and the resulting proof, the image on the left
is given a resounding approval.
Please remember this as part of your color management

policies and it will save you plenty of running around or
paying for shipping. The ability to calibrate your systems
and coordinate the color management of your Corel
applications, along with these improvements, will help
you maintain your color. However there are some things
that require a simple low-tech approach and this (in my
opinion) will always be one of them.
David Milisock is president of Custom Graphic Technologies Inc n Lancaster, PA. He

has been in the print production business since 1975, and specializes in professional
support for the CorelDRAW® Graphics Suite. He is the author of Color Management
for the CorelDRAW Graphics Suite (2008), which is available from the CorelDRAWPro
Bookstore. He can be reached at 717-509-3523 or davidmilisock@comcast.net.

16
INSIDE TRANSFERS
By Bill Leek Training
Transferring Images to Tile:

Which Method is Best for You?
The applications for digitally applying images to tile are environment, and cost. Let’s begin by defining the tile paper with sublimation inkjet ink or laser printer toner.
vast and varied. Some of our customers use tiles for types and transfer processes. The transfer is then heat pressed on to the tile at 400F.
magnets and coasters. Others use tiles as decorative The tiles are processed with a baked on poly coating
inserts in wood boxes, frames, trivets, cutting boards TYPES OF TILES: by sublimation suppliers. I do not recommend that you
and small tables and plant stands. Still others use tiles 1) Ceramic with gloss, satin, and matte finishes are the try to coat tiles yourself!
for elaborate murals, back splashes, countertops, floors, most commonly used.
swimming pools and other architectural elements. The scratch resistance, heat and UV protection of the
2) Porcelain is popular for swimming pools and coated tiles vary significantly. Gloss tiles are typically
In some cases, especially with artists and professional showers. the least resistant to both abrasion and UV (sunlight).
photographers, accurate color and durability are Satin and Matte tiles with multiple UV inhibitors are the
mandatory. In other situations (e.g. novelty items) 3) Tumbled stone and marble are used for coasters, most durable.
color accuracy and durability is less important. murals, and individual display tiles when a natural or
antique look is desired. A new class of super scratch-resistant tiles has been
The color transfer method and the type of tile used developed by Rich Brenner and the folks at Westar
is wholly dependent on the specific application, the 4) Glass tiles are a good choice when the image needs
to be protected (the image is printed on the back of the
glass). Glass tiles can be backlit for a dramatic effect.
5) Unglazed bisque can be decorated to provide an

heirloom look.
6) Unisub coated hardwood tiles can be utilized as an

effective substitute in wood boxes, frames, etc. They
are strictly used for color sublimation. Unisub material
may be cut into a variety of custom-shaped inserts.
DIGITAL TRANSFER METHODS:
FULL COLOR INKJET AND LASER SUBLIMATION

Sublimation is the most common method used to
An array of backlit glass sublimation tiles. decorate tiles. A transfer is printed on inexpensive Finished wood box with tile insert.

17
INSIDE TRANSFERS
Systems in Colorado. You cannot scratch these new tiles with is used with specific
a key, screwdriver, or knife. These revolutionary tiles can be laser printers and
used for table tops, counters, walls, backsplashes, and even copiers to produce
floors. These tiles will open up many new opportunities for the a waterslide decal.
sublimation community. The waterslide
decal is applied to a
All six tile types above can be used when coated for ceramic or porcelain
sublimation. glazed tile. The tile is
then baked for 1.5 to
A VERY IMPORTANT CAVEAT!! Sublimation tiles are not 2 hours in a kiln. The
recommended for outdoor use. They will fade over a relatively temperature of the kiln
short period of time in sunlight. There are some suppliers who is gradually increased
will tell you that sublimated tiles can be used outdoors. We to approximately
have tested a wide variety and none meet those requirements. 1700F.
On the positive side, certain sublimated tiles exhibit good
indoor life (30+ years in average indoor conditions). This will The resulting tile is
vary with the products of each tile coating company. very durable and
will last outside for
CUSTOM KILN FIRED TILES several generations.
The only current method for producing tiles for extended The color gamut is Tumbled stone tiles make
outdoor use is Kiln Firing. In this process, a special toner somewhat limited great coasters.
when compared with
sublimation. Using the standard toners, a bright red cannot
be reproduced. With this exception, pleasant, accurate colors
can be transferred with proper color management.
These tiles are ideal for outdoor patios, murals, fountains,

pools, signs, and memorial images. Glass tiles can also be
created with a higher degree of difficulty. The process in
terms of both labor and materials is much more expensive
than sublimation. This expense is easily justified by the vast,
new outdoor installation opportunities.
COLOR LASER PRINTER TRANSFER

This method uses an inexpensive color laser printer with
standard OEM toner. The toners are printed on a special
transfer paper. The image on the transfer paper is then heat
pressed at 250 to 375F (depending on toner manufacturer
and type of tile) to the tile. This is the least expensive transfer
method.
A small mural of one of my paintings using
satin sublimation tiles. Images may to transferred to uncoated glazed ceramic and

18
INSIDE TRANSFERS
porcelain, unglazed bisque, tumbled somewhat labor intensive and the

stone, and glass. After pressing, the special inks are not inexpensive.
glazed ceramic, porcelain, glass and Artistic results can be impressive
tumbled stone must be post baked and unique.
for about 5 minutes to strengthen the
bond between the toner and substrate. CONCLUSIONS:
Bisque does not require the post-bake Sublimation and Color Laser
step. Printer Transfers are the best
methods for creating novelty
Printer/toner selection is a key element. and decorative tiles.
Okidata desktop models perform
extremely well, producing very durable Indoors, sublimation provides
images. This is the least expensive the most brilliant range of
transfer method. Excellent results can New scratch-resistant sublimation tiles offer new colors and low costs. The new
be achieved on thousands of different opportunities for floor, countertop, wall scratch resistant tiles open up
This satin tile portrait is mounted tile types. and backsplash installations. new opportunities for floor, wall,
on a unique tin frame. counter/tabletop and back splash installations. Glass sublimation tiles provide extra
LASER ENGRAVER FUSION image protection and can be backlit individually or as a mural with dramatic effect.
As of this writing, this is still a work in progress that shows great promise. A laser
engraving machine is used in raster mode to apply 4-color separations to tile, Kiln-fired tiles offer the only
porcelain, glass, and an assortment of stone tiles. Each color is applied on an option for long term outdoor
individual pass. The tiles are airbrushed with ink that contains pigmented glass frits. installation.
The surface of the tile is completely coated with each of the 4 CMYK colors. The ink
dries on the surface in a few seconds. Laser Engraver Fusion
shows substantial potential
The power/heat of the laser is then used in both durability and breadth
to permanently fuse the frits of each of architectural/artistic
image color separation to the surface applications.
of the tile. After each laser pass, the
excess ink is washed off the tile and the Bill Leek is a color consultant
next color is airbrushed on. The inks for JBL Graphics in Houston,
are more opaque and less transparent TX, and has over 30 years
than the sublimation inks or standard experience in computer Uncoated bisque tiles created using Color Laser
OEM laser toner. engineering and graphics Printer transfer have unique heirloom quality.
design. He has developed several lines of color imprintable products, and does
Durability thus far appears better than testing on a variety of products for different manufacturers. He can be reached at
the sublimation and color laser printer wfleek@jblgraphics.com or 281-970-6677.
methods. I especially like this method when Laser Engraver Fusion was used to
working with glass tiles. This method is create this glass panel.

19
INSIDE SCREEN PRINTING
By Jeff McDaniel Applications
Printing Process
Background
In our last article we took our screens from the dryer unit, re-aligned them and
masked them off. We also blocked out any pin holes and imperfections in the capillary
film. In this article, we will ink our screens and start printing.
Our setup and yours

Image 3: The
Our setup is the Printa 770 series screen printing machine from Printa Systems Inc.
flash cure unit
All of the supplies and
should be set
tools we will cover from
up 3-4 inches
here on were provided
above the
in the turn-key system
surface of the
from Printa with the
platen.
770. Your setup may be
from another source but
will most likely contain
components of what we
will discuss below.
Image 1: Check the squeegee by looking down the
edge for a radius or chamfer.
Getting Started
At the conclusion of down and need to be replaced with a fresh squeegee. You can check the status of
our last article, we left the squeegee by looking down the edge for a radius or chamfer (see Image 1).
our screens masked
and ready on the press. Selecting the right squeegee for the image.
We will need to select Since we are doing four different color layers on this image, we will want to select
our squeegees, set our the right size squeegee for each color. If the image is only 2 inches across, a 12-inch
flash cure unit height, squeegee is not a good choice. On this design the red in the falcon’s mouth is a very
and ink our screens. small portion of the picture area. We will use a 3” squeegee to cover the red. The
orange is a slightly larger area and can be covered by a 6” squeegee. For the blue
Checking your and black layers we will use larger squeegees that overlap the image. When choosing
squeegee for wear the squeegee to use for a selected color, we want the squeegee to overlap the outside
New squeegees edges of the image so we can get the color laid down in one pass (see image 2).
from the manufacturer
have a sharp edge and Setting up the flash cure unit
Image 2: We want the squeegee to overlap the outside will last for a very long The flash cure unit is a mobile heater that can be used to flash cure and/or finish
edges of the image so we can get the color laid time. Eventually the cure the screen printing project. We will be using the flash cure unit to do our final
down in one pass. sharp edge may wear cure on this project and will cover that when we go to our final curing process. Flash

20
INSIDE SCREEN PRINTING
degrees. The lower the angle of the squeegee the more ink
we will push through the screen onto the garment (see Image
5). A print stroke with the proper amount of pressure should
scrape the screen clean.
Conclusion
In this article we checked and selected our squeegees,
inked our screens, and discussed a proper printing stroke. In
our next article we will discuss whether or not to flash cure,
produce our first article, and final cure our inks.
Jeff McDaniel is the Owner/Operator of Creative Graphic in

Philomath, Oregon. Jeff has been working with computers since
the age of 5 and was a journeyman machinist before working
in the graphic arts business. Creative Graphic offers services
including laser engraving, rotary engraving, sandblasting,
sublimation, image transfers, vinyl signs, banners, screen
Image 4: We use an ink spatula or a paint stirrer stick to
printing, and promotional products. Jeff routinely applies
place a liberal amount of ink on the screen and
graphics to a wide variety of materials. You can contact Jeff
on the squeegee.
by email at Jeff@creativegraphic.net.
curing is the process of heating the top layer of ink enough so

that it will not come off on your finger or other portions of the
garment. The flash cure unit should be set up 3-4 inches above
the surface of the platen (see Image 3).
Inking the screens and squeegees

We like to open up our inks and stir them prior to use. The
plasticizing agents will sometimes separate from the oils in the
ink depending on how long the ink has sat unused. We usually
stir the ink until it is smooth and creamy. We use an ink spatula
or a paint stirrer stick to place a liberal amount of ink on the
screen and on the squeegee (see Image 4). By placing ink on
the squeegee we will get a smooth first stroke.
Proper printing stroke

The printing stroke is the stroke that we make with the
squeegee to lay down the screen printing ink on the garment.
The printing stroke is a matter of feel and does take a little bit Image 5: The lower the angle of the squeegee the more ink
of practice. We hold the squeegee at an angle between 45-60 we will push through the screen onto the garment.

21
INSIDE SANDBLASTING
By Judy McDaniel Applications
Applying adhesive to
masking material
4 types of masking material the adhesive application step. It still requires washout, faces of the picture you are working on. Other than laser
Masking material is currently available in four however, it comes from the factory with an adhesive mask, it is the only material that I would recommend for
common varieties. The first, which we used for all of layer. We’ve had several people report success with photos. This is the one we use all the time now when
our projects when we first started sandblasting, requires this material, but it’s more expensive than those where we use a film. It is a little more expensive; however,
washout after exposure, application of adhesive on the you apply the adhesive to either the product or the mask. we feel that it is the most fool proof, is the quickest for
product being blasted, then after the adhesive is dry to Furthermore, since the adhesive is water soluble, if you production, and yields the best results.
the touch, application of the mask. Except for vinyl, this over-wash the material after exposure there is a danger
is the cheapest mask, but the most time consuming. that you can wash the adhesive away in some spots and Tips on mask type #1
The next requires washout after exposure but is not even know it. As I’ve indicated, we started out using a mask that
designed to have adhesive sprayed on the mask. Then The fourth is also self-adhesive and is the most required the manual application of adhesive to the
after it’s dry, the mask is applied to the product being expensive. It is called HD or high definition photo product being blasted. We no longer use this method
blasted. Because we don’t have an area to contain masking material. It doesn’t require washout or or teach it, so I thought that it might be helpful to those
over-spray we have never used this method in our day- adhesive, it only requires exposure and application to of you who might be using this material for me to share
to-day operations. the product. Because you are not washing it out, you some of the tips we taught in our classes when we first
The third is self-adhesive. It’s designed to eliminate don’t lose small letters or centers of letters, or dots in the started teaching sandblasting.
Applying the glue Applying the mask Attaching the mask 1

22
INSIDE SANDBLASTING
Since anything that resists the action of the abrasive drag the brush over the surface again in one direction, product, lifting and pressing your thumbs from the center
stream on the product will have an impact on the final from left to right or right to left, with light even pressure. out. Never drag your thumbs or use a brayer over the
result, the even application of adhesive is essential. Make as many overlapping strokes as necessary to surface after you’ve removed the carrier.
A common problem some people experience is the cover the glue area. Applying the adhesive evenly is essential to
application of too much adhesive. Typically when too The action of the first brush applies a layer of glue, producing uniform quality results.
much adhesive is applied it results in an uneven coating, while the second thins and smoothes the application.
which in turn can lead to a rippled or uneven effect in If you’re doing a large project you will probably need Judy McDaniel, with her husband John are owners
the final product. Remember the glue is also a resist. If several dry brushes to thin and smooth the adhesive of JHM Marketing in Albany, OR. JHM provides
it’s applied unevenly or too heavily the abrasive stream application. consulting and training services for the industry. They
will get to the product’s surface in some areas before Once the application is complete, wash your have been using CorelDRAW since 1989 and teaching
others. In addition the adhesive can fill small areas, like brushes out with soap and water and allow them to dry it for engraving, sandblasting, sublimation, etc. since
the serifs of letters, and require that you remove it with before using them again. 1991. Currently they are both Corel Training Partners.
an Exacto knife, which is a real chore. Allow the adhesive to dry until clear; don’t allow it (For information on training services offered and their
I’ve found the following procedure overcomes this to over-dry. If you allow the adhesive to over-dry, it will application support service visit www.CorelDRAWhelp.
problem and yields consistent results. lose some of its tack, making it harder to apply the mask. com.) They can be reached at 541-967-4271, fax 541-
First, make sure your adhesive is not lumpy or old, I’ve found that gluing about half a dozen smaller items 967-4272, or via email at mail@CorelDRAWhelp.com.
then for application select two clean, dry, foam brushes. or three or four larger items is all I can do at one time.
With the first brush dip the tip in the adhesive and lightly By the time that you finish with gluing the last object, the
brush it as evenly as possible on the surface of the first one should be ready for you to put the mask on.
product. Make overlapping strokes in one direction, Apply the mask starting from the center outward.
moving left to right or right to left. Before removing the carrier you can use a squeegee or
Then while the adhesive is still wet, with an edge of brayer to smooth the mask. After removing the carrier,
the second brush, starting at the top and moving down, with your thumbs gently press the mask against the
Attaching the mask 2 Trimming the mask

23
INSIDE ENGRAVING
By John McDaniel Applications
Hardware Design: – Motors Part 2

Last time we started our discussion of individual Positioning Feedback bumps produce the characteristic growl associated with
machine components with electric motors and their Encoder feedback is normally accomplished with stepper motor movement.
application in engraving machines. We looked at spindle either rotary or linear encoders. We explained the
motors for rotary engravers, and considered the pros differences in detail when we discussed repeatability in Engraving Machine Axis Motor Application
and cons of stepper motors for axis movement. part 5 of this series. To summarize, rotary encoders are A two-dimensional rotary engraving machine will be
To review, stepper motors are electrically pulsed; disks attached to the motor shaft or lead screw. They equipped with two axes motors – one for the X axis and
they react by moving a specific distance for each pulse; measure shaft rotation; and using that measurement, one for the Y axes. It may have a third motor for the Z
i.e. they move one increment or step per pulse. Because distance is computed. Linear encoders are essentially axis; or have a solenoid to move the cutter up and down.
of their stepping capability, they are normally used in electronic rulers, attached to the axis, which the machine A three-dimensional rotary engraving machine will have
what’s known as an open-loop design. In an open-loop can read. They report actual movement and, therefore, three axes motors – an X, Y, and Z; and will be able to
design, the motor is commanded (pulsed) to move so are the most accurate feedback method available. vary the depth of cut programmatically.
many steps; the motor is allowed time between pulses
(dwell time) to move; and it’s assumed that the axis in Positioning Speed ►
fact moves to the appropriate position. Another benefit of servo motor/encoder systems is
In other words, in most stepper motor designs, there that there is no guessing as to how much time is needed
is no positive axis location feedback. Consequently, if to execute a command. No dwell time is required since
there are unforeseen forces which resist movement, positive feedback allows the machine to know where it is
then it’s possible for positioning errors to occur. at all times. As a result, positioning, especially for non-
We’ll pick up the discussion at that point. cutting movements, is much faster for machines that use
servos, rather than steppers, for axis movement.
Servo Motors
As an alternative to using the open-loop stepper Motor Motion
motor design for axis movement, we could use servo One final comparison between stepper and servo
motors. Servo motors can be AC or DC; brush or motion control methods is the motion produced. With
brushless. Servo motors don’t have the same torque a servo motor, motion is constant at any given speed.
drop-off problems as steppers so they can accelerate In fact there is one servo system I know of where
or decelerate much faster. the motor can rotate one revolution in 24 hours, at a
These motors, however, have no step indexing constant speed. That’s not something that’s practical
and therefore must be accompanied with an encoder for engraving applications; it’s only an illustration of
feedback system to control axis positioning. As a result, ability.
servo motor designs contain more components and are That type of speed control is not possible with
usually more expensive to implement. However, the stepper motors. A stepper motor’s motion is pulsed.
benefits of a servo/encoder system are; 1) positioning It goes through acceleration and deceleration for each
is repeatable without error; 2) positioning can be faster step taken, like a little bump or jump. As it increases in
than with a comparable stepper motor design; and 3) overall speed, the bumps become more like ripples, but
motor movement is smooth. its motion is never as smooth as that of a servo. These

24
INSIDE ENGRAVING
Laser engraving machines are typically two-dimensional therefore, cost more to implement. However, servo-motor/
in nature (X and Y axis), with some type of motor to elevate or encoder designs can be more accurate in positioning. They
lower the engraving table (Z axis). For most machines, table provide the fastest positioning speed; the smoothest motion;
elevation is controlled manually, or is under software control and because of positive feedback, are preferred in machines
for auto-focus at the start of the job. However, in at least one that are designed to experience a wide range of cutting loads.
machine design that I’m aware of, the Gravograph/New Hermes In addition, you’ll also find servos in some laser engravers.
lasers, the table is under program control. The difference is When selecting a new machine for your business, it
that, in the Gravograph design, material cutouts which require becomes necessary to balance the cost of the machine with
multiple passes can be programmed so that the Z axis is raised its intended application. If you’re selecting a rotary engraver,
between passes, thereby refocusing the laser beam deeper and intend to surface engrave a limited range of materials, a
into the material. stepper motor machine can save you some money. If, on the
In application, open-looped stepper motor designs are best other hand, you plan to do more than surface engraving in a
suited for use in machines where axis movement resistance wide range of materials, a servo/encoder system might better
doesn’t vary much; in other words, for machines where the suit your needs.
cutting load falls within a narrow predictable range. If this is If you’re selecting a laser, then variations in cutting load is
the case, the machine designer can maximize performance by not an issue. Positioning accuracy and repeatability; overall
minimizing dwell time without risking positioning errors. This speed and throughput; may, however, be reasons you would
would apply to all laser engravers, since lasers don’t have a consider paying more for a machine that has servo motors for
cutting resistance load. It also applies to rotary engraving axis movement.
machines designed for light-duty surface engraving. In any case, the best advice is to have each manufacturer
If a rotary engraving machine is designed to work in a demonstrate his equipment, performing your task. Then make
wide range of cutting environments, axis movement resistance your decision.
will vary greatly. In this situation, positioning feedback is Next time we’ll conclude our examination of motors
advantageous; so servo/encoder designs are preferred. As a and reveal the big horsepower myth.
result, there are no heavy milling machines, built today, that
I’m aware of, which use stepper motors for axis movement. John McDaniel with his wife Judy are owners of JHM Marketing
They all use servo motors with encoder feedback. in Albany, OR. JHM provides consulting and training services
for the industry. They offer private training at their facility in
Conclusion Albany and on location for corporate customers; as well as group
In short, both stepper and servo-motor designs have been training at various events around the country. (For information
successfully used in engraving equipment. Stepper motor on training services offered and their application support
designs require fewer components to implement. Therefore, service visit www.CorelDRAWhelp.com.) (For information on
machines using them should cost less to purchase. They are the Association of CorelDRAW Professionals, please visit www.
typically found in some laser engravers, and light-duty rotary CorelDRAWPro.com.) They can be reached by phone at 541-
engravers. 967-4271, via SKYPE (user name JHMcDaniel), or via email
Servo-motor designs have more components, and at JHMcDaniel@CorelDRAWhelp.com.

25
INSIDE LASER
By Louie Alvarez Application
Laser Engraving Anodized Aluminum

This month I was working with a company that sheet metal we typically use, for products I described at
specializes in the process of anodizing aluminum. the opening of this column, but there are other methods
Considering the awards and engraving industry has to the technique that can make for what is referred to
for years used anodized aluminum plates for plaques, as “hard anodized” aluminum.
awards, name badges and nameplates, the process When done on aluminum parts needing extra
definitely caught my attention. durability, such as paintball equipment (See Image 2),
Anodized Aluminum is available in a variety of automotive or motorcycle parts, the surface texture
colors and designs and can usually be easily engraved can be too hard to allow the laser engraver to do its job
with a low-powered CO2 laser engraver which can effectively.
provide detail and quality not so easily achieved with Then there is the other problem when laser engraving
other materials. The anodizing process also provides a certain colors, blue and red immediately comes to mind.
very durable finish to the aluminum, making for a great These colors don’t always turn completely white when
outdoor substrate where durability, scratch resistance, lasered due to the color pigment used that leaves behind
UV resistance, etc. is needed. (See Image 1) a light tint of that particular color. A second pass may
improve the lasered image but a light tint will invariably
Problems in lasering aluminum still remain. Image 2: Aluminum parts such as paintball guns
What did I mean by usually? Well as you can safely require the use of a metal marking solution.
assume, there is a special process that is used to Oxidizing vs. removing the coating
“anodize” aluminum. Our industry is very familiar with the Something I might also mention is don’t be confused will a car left out in the sun for decades and the damage
with lasering anodized aluminum as you are NOT the sun does to the paint job. Splotches of white where
removing the coating from the surface to reveal the the sun was most intense begin to occur.
metal underneath. As you may already know, CO2 The laser engraver creates the same effect with
lasers typically used in our industry are of the low anodized aluminum, i.e., oxidizing. Simply put, aluminum
wattage variety and simply don’t have enough oomph is not white to begin with so you cannot be removing
to effectively mark raw metals directly. This is precisely the surface revealing raw aluminum underneath.
why the third-party metal marking solutions, such as Understanding that will help you adjust your power and
Cermark and Thermark, have been so successful in speed settings accordingly to achieve the best results.
our industry.
To laser engrave raw metal directly using a CO2 Lasering colored aluminum
laser requires about 400+ watt tube, and to begin cutting You should see the same white or off-white
raw metals you will require an 800+ watt tube. At this “aftermark” from lasering anodized aluminum regardless
point the CO2 wave frequency issue that prevents raw of the color the aluminum was anodized to. But of all
metal marking and cutting is eliminated as raw power the colors available, and a good anodizing company can
now balances out the equation. create virtually any color you can imagine (see Image
With that said, when lasering anodized aluminum the 3), including mixtures and designs, black anodized
Image 1: Anodized aluminum is available in laser’s highly focused beam of light is simply “oxidizing” aluminum is by far the best for laser engraving.
a variety of colors and designs. the surface, producing a white aftermark. Imagine if you This is due to the fact that the aftermark created

26
INSIDE LASER
simply provides the highest contrast against the black right white aftermark to provide for a crisp, clean and aluminum from our familiar industry suppliers, be aware
background. Black anodized aluminum, along with detailed image. that there is a very large market available in paintball,
marble and acrylic, is high on my favorite materials to automotive, motorcycle, tooling and custom work. This
work with. This is not only because you can achieve such A new result for power settings substrate has been virtually ignored beyond the usage
fine detail but also the gradients capable are smooth At a trade show I recently exhibited at, I had a of the typical sheet metal, so I highly recommend you
and realistic, making for photo quality results when company bring by their “sample” anodized aluminum broaden your horizons and expand your target market
attempting to engrave photographs. automotive parts (See Image 4) and the company had and sell, sell, sell!
me attempt to match their sample lasering done with a
YAG laser but with the far less expensive CO2 lasers Louie Alvarez began acquiring his experience in the
Image 3: I was showcasing. Needless to say I found out rather awards and engraving industry in Central California over
Any color quickly that the 35-watt, 65-watt and 100-watt lasers I 15 years ago, first as an employee of the largest and
imaginable was working with could not exactly replicate what the oldest trophy shop and then as owner of one of the first
can be YAG laser had produced. laser engraving businesses. Louie has been a featured
created by a workshop instructor and seminar speaker throughout
manufacturer. the industry in addition to being a contributing writer to
numerous industry publications. Louie is based in Las
Vegas, NV and can be reached at alvarezwriting@gmail.
Lasering aluminum parts com.
The typical anodized aluminum found at your awards
and engraving supply store works rather well. But if you
have your own aluminum parts custom anodized then
you could run into unacceptable results. This is due to
how the aluminum is processed. As I mentioned earlier,
hard anodized aluminum is designed to be extremely
durable so you might not get the results you desire.
If you locate a quality anodizing company, then
experiment with some of their pieces to ensure good
results. You’ll find that the process can produce some Image 4: Auto and other metal
very creative color combinations, lighting effects, and parts is a big market.
can pretty much match any color you could imagine. But
you really need to test their processed material to ensure One thing I did find out though, and something you
you receive the correct white oxidized effect. might keep in mind, was that increasing the power only
made the oxidizing seem darker. As I lowered the power
Use the right settings on the smallest of the lasers I had at my disposal, the
Anodized aluminum doesn’t need much power. brighter the oxidizing got. I was definitely surprised; too
I’ve found that you can use full 100% speed and adjust much power only darkened the image, while low power
power down to a low percentage, such as, 20%-30% brightened up the image. This was unexpected, and I
to get the quality results. I’ve not seen too much power must admit after a decade and a half in the industry I’m
ruining a laser engraved image. But since lasering still learning tricks of the trade.
anodized aluminum is only an oxidizing process, you
should always be able to use full speed. But test a Sell to the parts market
sample piece, increasing power until you achieve the So although you can pick up sheets of anodized

27
GETTING AHEAD
By Deborah Sexton Opportunity
Expand Your Services With

Print-and Cut Technology
No matter what type of business you have—screen printer, embroiderer, stickers, decals, and bumper stickers. We even did
decorations on football goal posts.”
or awards dealer—you will find the print-and-cut process will enable Adding print-and-cut capabilities has boosted the
shop’s revenue by roughly 50%, McCauley says. “It has
you to offer more services and make more money.

expanded our markets beyond our expectations. And
now the materials are expanding beyond belief, with
printable flock, metallic, reflective, and puff ink,” he says.
In an increasingly demanding and competitive layer of material, then cutting and applying it. This critical “I’m so excited. We can do so much more now, and in
marketplace, the key to success for decorators is difference means there’s no need to line up and weed five years, we’ll be able to do more than we can fathom.
flexibility. Today’s customers want their artwork on a multiple pieces of material, and you can create far more We’re not sending business out the door. Customers are
huge variety of seemingly impossible substrates — and intricate, sophisticated artwork. It also allows for much coming here and getting solutions. Now we’re more of
often on relatively small orders at faster-than-light finer details than is possible with screen printing. The a one-stop shop.”
speed. advantages don’t stop there, though. Print-and-cut technology’s flexibility prompted
Thankfully, print-and-cut technology gives decorators Steven Jackson, owner, Seaglass Logowear, Clifton
a way to meet those demands, allowing them to quickly
and easily embellish an incredible array of apparel and
A Long List of Advantages
Perhaps the single biggest benefit of using a printer/
►
other items, from bags and umbrellas to bumper stickers cutter system is the enormous flexibility it provides, in
and swim suits. Better yet, the technology is ideal for terms of artwork application. If a customer supplies you
today’s short runs and personalized artwork. with his logo to apply on a sign, you can easily use that
As the term “print and cut” suggests, the process same artwork to print and cut artwork for T-shirts, aprons,
involves printing onto a heat-applied media, then contour bumper stickers, and much more.
cutting it and applying it to a substrate. Once the thin “If you’re making door signs for Joe’s Heating
material is printed and cut, you just weed away the extra and Plumbing, you can make him a dozen T-shirts
material, and transfer it to the item. Depending on the too,” says Jerry Newton, managing partner, Specialty
material you’re using, you may need to use a transfer Materials, Tulsa, Okla. “Think of it as a sign that goes
mask as a carrier sheet to position and place the material on a T-shirt.”
on the substrate. Finally, you heat seal the material to Sew Artistic, Glen Falls, N.Y., has a distinct
the item, and voila, your item is finished. advantage over its competition because the decorator’s
This simple process differs in one small but critical printer/cutter system gives it such flexibility. “Our printer/ When Gordon and Donna McCauley added a
way from traditional computer-aided design cutting: cutter fits perfectly into our business. Customers can printer/cutter to their decorated apparel operation,
You’re not cutting and stacking pieces of material to get trophies, bumper stickers, posters, and banners,” sales jumped by 50% that year. “It has expanded
create what is essentially a spot-color image. Instead, says Gordon McCauley, co-owner. “We also do lots of our markets beyond our expectations,” says
you’re printing a multiple color image right onto a single logos on shirts for companies, and we’ve done window Gordon Cauley, co-owner.

28
GETTING AHEAD
expanding my business time and time again.” information on the Internet from real users.”
Debra Cates, co-owner, Jack Print & Design, Los In terms of durability, printer/cutters get very high
Angeles, uses her shop’s printer/cutter to do decals, marks, say suppliers. “You don’t lose color, and it
stickers, banners, and fine-art prints on canvas. “The essentially won’t fade, crack or peel,” Seward says.
greatest benefit to buying the VersaCAMM has been to Further, the color fastness and brightness also are
keep printing in-house with no minimums, lead times, or the best of any process, suppliers say. “We’ve done our
quality control issues,” Cates says. “It has been a huge research and development, and this is the best process
benefit to offer so much with one machine.” out there,” Seward says. “The color accuracy is also
Printer/cutters also are appealing in terms of their good. You can get dead-on colors.”
simplicity, offering decorators a straightforward, “what- Lured by the versatility of printer/cutter systems,
you-see-is-what-you-get” way of doing things. “You don’t some sign makers are even dipping their toes into the
have to guess what’s going to come out on the other apparel market. Likewise, printer/cutters allow apparel
side,” says Dan Seward, sales manager, Imprintables decorators to easily cross over into the world of signs
Warehouse, Masontown, Pa. “With other processes, you and banners. “You can do banners, vehicle and boat
Cad Color® Solutions™ Sub-Block is specifically have to make so many adjustments and edits.” graphics, awnings, tents, vinyl stickers and labels, and
designed to be heat applied to a sublimated “The day our VersaCAMM was delivered, we did fine art prints on canvas,” says Steve Urmano, vice
jersey. Unlike other materials, it blocks dye 55 full-front shirts with Solutions Opaque material,” president of sales, Mimaki USA, Suwanee, Ga. (The
migration from ruining white lettering on a color McCauley says. “We were able to learn the equipment company’s printer/cutter options include the JV3 75 II
sublimated jersey. Photo courtesy of Stahls’, very quickly. It’s very easy to learn, especially if you’re SP inkjet printer and the CG 75 FX cutter.)
St. Clair Shores, Mich. good at graphics.”
Adds Cates: “Compared to the learning curve of Types of Output
Park, N.Y., to purchase a system for his four-year-old our direct-to-garment machine, the VersaCAMM was Print-and-cut systems come in two flavors, with the
decorating company. The choice was a good one, he a cakewalk. The benefits of having a product that is key difference being the type of output: solvent inkjet or
says, with his printer/cutter — a Roland VersaCAMM used by so many people is huge. There is so much thermal transfer ribbon.
— getting a serious workout. “If I were to go one day
without using it, I would be amazed,” Jackson says. “We Print-and-Cut Material Suppliers
do stickers, magnets, transfers, the whole spectrum, and
our business has grown incrementally. We can take care The following is a partial list of companies that offer print and cut materials. These materials can be used with
of our customers’ needs from beginning to end.” almost any inkjet printer and cutter, however be sure to check that you have the right color profile to match
Seaglass Logowear gets a sizeable margin from your printer and your materials.
items decorated using the printer/cutter. “If I’m not
printing a T-shirt, I’m running a banner or a magnetic Imprintables Warehouse Stahls’
sign, and the mark-up is fantastic,” Jackson says. “I’m P.O. Box 711, Masontown, PA 15461 20600 Stephens St., St. Clair Shores, MI 48080
spending about $1 per square foot, and selling it for 724-966-8599, (800) 347-0068 800-482-2457, Fax: 800-346-2216
about $7 per square foot.” E-mail: info@imprintableswarehouse.com E-mail: info@stahlsid.com
The key is to focus on smaller orders with quick www.imprintables.com
turnaround, he says. “When somebody needs quick Roland DGA Corp.
turnaround, the VersaCAMM lets me do it,” Jackson Specialty Materials 15363 Barranca Parkway, Irvine, CA 92618
says. “Also, production time isn’t much of a factor 2929 W 21st St., P.O. Box 9247, Tulsa, OK 74157 949-727-2100, 800-542-2307
because I set up the job, hit ‘print,’ and walk away and 918-437-8599, 877-437-8556, Fax: 918-437-8588 sales@rolanddga.com
do something else. There’s so much more potential with information@specialtymaterials.com www.rolanddga.com
this machine that we haven’t even tapped. I can keep www.specialtymaterials.com

29
GETTING AHEAD
Thermal technology
has the upper hand
in terms of durability,
Newton says, and it’s
also popular in the
large-format world
for substrates such
as license plates and
labels. However, it’s
Many of the print and cut materials are designed considerably more
to go on stretchy fabrics like Lycra Spandex. The expensive than inkjet.
design can be stretched and then returns to its “You can spend as much
normal proportions without any permanent distortion. as $2.50 per square foot
Photo courtesy of Imprintables Warehouse, on a resin ribbon, where
Masontown, Pa. you might spend about
75 cents per square foot
with a solvent inkjet,” Newton explains. “It has a few niche markets, but for apparel,
it’s definitely declining.”
Also, suppliers offer solvent and “eco-solvent” inkjet systems, which use solvents
that are more environmentally friendly, Newton says. Eco-solvent is the most popular
in the decorated apparel industry, because there’s no need to shell out big bucks
for exhaust equipment
as is necessary with
solvent systems. The
trend has been for only
large companies that can
afford to install ventilation
systems to use solvent
inkjet printers.
Equipment
and Supplies
Output technology
aside, you have three
main choices for a print/
cut system: an all-in-
one unit, a separate but
For decorated apparel and award shops, print-
connected printer and
and-cut systems open the door to a whole new
cutter; and a completely
service for their customers. Sew Artistic was able
separate printer and
to create these banners for a local high school
cutter.
football game using the Roland VersaCAMM.
R o l a n d ’ s

30
GETTING AHEAD
VersaCAMM machine is an all-in-one solution that prints which uses an electronic eye and software to cut in the be applied to sublimated garments where dye migration
and cuts, all in one unit. “The most popular model for correct places. The advantage with this arrangement is can be a problem. The biggest advantage of this ever-
the apparel market is the 30-inch unit, which costs about that you can print one job while another cuts, rather than growing list is you can now decorate items that were
$11,000,” says Matt Smith, vice president of sales for waiting for a single unit to finish working. This makes impossible or difficult before.
Dallas-based Graphic Solutions Group, which distributes it a more appealing option than an all-in-one unit for No matter what type of business you own, print
the VersaCAMM. “We usually include inks and materials decorators doing high-volume work. and cut is sure to be a valuable addition that allows you
at that price.” No matter which printer/cutter system you purchase, to offer more services with a reasonable investment
The VersaCAMM comes in two basic sizes: 30 inch the space requirements aren’t substantial. You’ll need cost. All shops interviewed for this article, paid off
and 50 inch. “If you want the most versatility, then you’re as much as 50 inches of width for a 30-inch unit, for their machine within a year. Since most shops doing
going to go with the larger machine. That way, you can example, and adequate table space to lay materials. decorated apparel, signs, or awards, already own a
do those 40-inch x 8-inch banners,” Seward says. Besides the printer/cutter, you’ll also need a heat heat seal machine, this reduces the overall investment
Mimaki offers a system that has two separate but press to seal the design to the substrate. “Get the largest necessary as well. Consider how much more you could
connected units that automate the print/cut process. heat press you can afford so that you don’t have any sell to your current customer base as well as possibly
“Our printer/cutter combos start with a 30-inch system limitations,” Seward says, adding that you should look for bringing in new customers with the versatile print and
for $16,890,” Urmano says. “The next step up is the 54- a press that lets you ‘thread’ garments completely over cut process.
inch combo for $23,995. “You can use the printer and the unit’s lower platen. “Then, if you want to decorate
cutter as separate components, or in tandem,” Urmano the back of the garment, all you have to do is turn the
says. “The two units are tethered by a cable.” garment and do the other side.”
The link between the two units allows a job to You’ll also need a graphics program, such as
automatically print on one unit and transfer to the cutter, CorelDraw or Adobe Illustrator, to create your artwork.
Another option is CADWorx, a graphics arts program
designed specifically for garment heat printing, Seward
says. “It’s extremely powerful and easy to use,” he adds.
“You can do complicated effects without being any sort
of artist whatsoever.”
Finally, you’ll need RIP software, which sends
artwork information from the computer to your printer/
cutter. Suppliers offer RIP software with their systems,
although decorators with multiple units may want to
consider a third-party RIP program.
Materials
It has been only in the past few years that suppliers
have begun creating heat-applied materials specifically
for print and cut and the list is not very long. Several
suppliers offer a basic white opaque material that is
The print-and-cut process is one where a full- good for cotton, polyester, cotton/polyester blends,
color design is printed on heat-applied media. Spandex and nylon. Then there is a growing variety of
The design is then contour cut so it only needs specialty materials such as metallic, glitter, puff, and
to be weeded and heat applied to a garment clear. Some materials have a matte and some have a
or other item. Photo courtesy of Imprintables glossy finish.
Warehouse, Masontown, Pa. Materials also have been specifically designed to

31
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32
MARKETING SECRETS
By Donna M. Gray, CRM Opportunities
Mind Your Own Business!

Lately I’ve been hearing from some industry people company credit card at 30 days, (giving them another Waiting for the pendulum
that sales are down and that customers are choosing 30 days to pay) wasn’t met with enthusiasm. There was Customers, whose companies are experiencing
more cost-effective products and services, along with no quick decision on this. cut backs, lay-offs, etc, are scaling back on rewards
cutting back on the numbers of products they’re buying. We had a couple of strategic meetings with our and awards they used in past years. I hope I’m right
Well, it stands to reason that when the economy is accountants before we made any commitment. When in the prediction…”This too shall pass!” We all know
suffering the woes of recession, our industry is going the decision was made, we shared with the customer’s the pendulum will swing back…we just don’t know how
to have challenges. Big Cheese, that just like every other company we know soon. But for now, continuing to produce and deliver
Thinking back to the last time the “R” word was of today, in every industry, we, too, need our cash to flow quality products, excellent customer service and value
used, I can remember my husband, Dave, asking me if in regularly, and dependably, and while we understood added, (the little extras that go a long way towards
I had paid the phone bill since it wasn’t ringing as often their situation, our decision to keep current terms, and making clients happy) are very important in keeping
as usual. All kidding aside, it’s not easy to smile and be even to insist on more timely payments, would remain close relationships with good customers.
enthusiastic when a customer tells you their cut backs in place.
are going to impact on the business they do with your Our accountants reminded us that that client
company. company had much deeper pockets than our small ►
But, friends, it may be a way of doing business for business, and, that they had been strapping us
a while, so those of us who accept this challenge will for several years. Guess what? They completely
have to work at solving the problems instead of wasting understood and agreed to speed up our payments. I’m Donna Gray’s 2nd book, It’s All Relative!
energy complaining. So, in my humble opinion, it’s time glad we didn’t cave. I’m glad we took the high road that
to mind your own business! It’s time to look at the way I’ve seen some of our peers take.
Surviving & Thriving in a Family Busi-
you’ve been doing business, everything from the way When I visit shops around the country, I am always ness, was published in September 2007.
you sell, to the way you collect your money. Keep in impressed with those who exhibit the kind of confidence
mind…you’re not alone in this. Your vendors and your that shows that they not only believe, but that they expect It describes her
customers are doing the same thing. they’re going to have a positive outcome, even with a quest to identify the
difficult sales situation. After seeing this first hand, I’m keys to success for
Taking the high road convinced that going in expecting things to work out…. small business, and
I recently had a phone call from one of our larger helps things to work out. family businesses in
clients asking if we could re-negotiate the way they pay particular. She inter-
us, so they wouldn’t be so cash strapped at certain times 5 to 1 odds viewed top businesses
of the year when we deliver to them. They were hoping With the battle for customers, who are ready to buy nationwide and discov-
for 90 to 120 days terms instead of the typical 30 (and products and services like we sell, escalating due to easy ered five common qual-
they take 60) day terms that they’ve had for several access to Internet companies, and to more competition ities implemented by
years. in the local marketplace, how can a business better the successful business
While their representative was reminding me about odds of getting new customers…and more important… owners. Check it out
the amount of work they have given us over many keeping existing customers? Studies show that it costs at the CorelDRAWPro
years, I was already thinking about how we could keep at least five times more to attract new clients as it does Bookstore, www.corel-
this relationship a happy one, while still keeping our to retain existing customers. So wouldn’t it make sense drawpro.com/AllBookstore.htm
revenue stream flowing. Offering to put invoices on their to concentrate on keeping existing good customers?

33
MARKETING SECRETS
Up-Front Selling way things are done, change the circumstances,

Ronald A. Nykiel, in his book, Keeping Customers In or change the situation. Take some kind of action.
Good Times And Bad, says, “When times are really bad, many Action cures worry!
businesses use Up-Front Selling to stimulate cash flow. To be ● Keep an open mind so you are ready for any new
successful, Up-Front Selling needs to be packaged, usually venture or opportunity that presents itself. Be open
under the guise of a substantial savings. Airlines are perhaps to try new things.
the most recognized for Up-Front Selling technique through ● Dream big! “If you can dream it, you can do it!” Walt
the advance purchase ticket. The discounts associated with Disney went through hard times, several times, but
such advance purchases form a savings motivation for the he kept his dream. A real entrepreneur, Walt knew
customer.” everything about his dream…its look, sound, smell,
The way we can put this Up-Front Selling in place is by feel, and taste. What a lesson in dreaming big!
offering our customers the opportunity to pay Up-Front for 12 ● Share the dream. When your ideas are shared
years (or whatever) of engraving for a perpetual plaque, which through your network, it’s amazing how things can
lets them take advantage of a break on today’s prices that happen to help the dream towards reality.
gives them X years of no worry completion on their recognition ● Cultivate your optimistic side. Successful
programs. entrepreneurs have great confidence that something
Every one of us, by thinking about it, could come up with an good comes from every experience. When meeting
Up-Front Selling program that’s appropriate for our industry. Not successful business owners, one doesn’t see
only would this build a long term relationship with the customer, pessimists.
just like the airlines count on, it gives the business Up-Front ● Get creative! Play with new ideas. Find ways to
Cash Flow. delight existing customers and to entice new ones.
● Get educated! Sometimes it might seem like I harp on
Minding your own business, when times are less than education, but I’ve noticed that successful companies
perfect, means we have to: are led by (and staffed by) people who have taken
time to educate themselves about their industry. They
● Look for opportunities. Find ways to take advantage of continue to read, attend seminars, participate in every
each of your company’s distinct advantages. Identify education conference / opportunity they can, and they
special capabilities, and explore what can be done talk to each other about the ideas and information they
differently and/or better. get at these events. They’re the ones who raise their
● Look for ways to make needed changes. Maybe it’s hands and ask questions. In my book, education is
time to re-organize a work area, an office, or totally a number one key to minding your own business!
change the look and feel of the showroom.
● Count this as an education…a degree in coping. Part Finally, minding your own business, in times that are less
of being in business is learning to get by, muddle than perfect, means we will find out where our true strengths
through, deal with, handle, manage and survive, when are. This is the opportunity to do things with enthusiasm,
things aren’t perfect. courage, optimism and focus. It’s time to embrace all the new
● Don’t waste time worrying! Find ways to change the challenges that keep us excited about being in business!

34
PRODUCT FOCUS
Opportunity
Sublimation Mugs & Tiles

JOHNSON PLASTICS HAS WIDE RANGE OF TILES AND MUGS iron products - including frames, house number
Johnson Plastics, a leading distributor of hangers, baskets, coaster holders, trivets, towel
engraving and sublimation supplies based in holders, and garden stakes - showcases one or
Minneapolis, MN with warehouses nationwide, more personalized ceramic or hardboard tiles.
offers a variety of decorative tiles for sublimation Digital decorators can produce custom home
in the most popular sizes and finishes: Ceramic accents, wedding gifts, anniversary gifts, and more
Lanka & Dal spacerless tiles, ceramic round - all with the distinctive look of wrought iron and the
tiles, frosted and white tempered glass tiles you lasting beauty and charm of tile. Condé strives to
sublimate from the back; tumble stone tiles, and offer the largest variety of imprintable tiles and tile
glow-in-the-dark tiles. They also have a growing assortment of mugs for sublimation: products for the custom decorating industry.
Polysub mugs and travel mugs at new lower prices; white, black and two-tone The new additions join an existing line-up of wood tile products that includes
Rhinocoat mugs; white Rhinocoat steins in two styles, and a great stainless steel keepsake boxes, frames, planter boxes, bookends, letter boxes, coaster holders, lazy
mug ready for your personalized message. Order online at www.johnsonplastics.com susans, serving trays, napkin holders, note holders, and pencil holders. Visit www.
or call Johnson Plastics at 1-800-869-7800. conde.com for additional information and pricing. Or call 800-826-6332.
JBL INTRODUCES SCRATCH-RESISTANT TILES PSI EXPANDS LINE OF HOME DÉCOR ITEMS FOR TILES
JBL GRAPHICS of Cypress, TX, has just Paramount Services Inc. (PSI) of Hollywood,
introduced a revolutionary line of fully scratch- FL, has expanded its line of home decor items
resistant sublimation tiles for both commercial and for sublimated tiles. Expertly crafted out of oak
residential architectural indoor applications. here in the USA, the new lineup features a
The new tile surface is highly resistant to Tissue Box, Plant Stand, Banana Tree, Serving
abrasion damage…even when scraped with Tray, Cutting Boards and Signs in several styles.
knives, keys and other metal objects. This All are designed to hold tiles (except two of
unique tile is ideally suited for floors, countertops, the solid signs for engraving), and can make
tabletops, backsplashes and murals. In addition, a unique display around the house or office.
the tile is produced with a unique sublimation coating, utilizing color enhancers There have also been additions to the Coaster
and UV inhibitors. Images are reproduced with brilliant color depth and detail. Rack section with two Mini Cutting Board Coaster
Both porcelain and ceramic tiles are available. Sizes include 6”, 8”, 8x10” and 12”. Racks, one of which will hold six. The company
Imaged tiles will be provided through their Fulfillment Services. Blank tiles will be also added as a convenience, all sizes of Unisub
provided to a select number of high volume, high-quality imagers. You may order Hardboard Tiles to make it easier to order small quantities to try. Call 800-455-7212
samples from JBL by calling toll free at 1-866-830-4258 or email at sales@jblgraphics. or visit www.Dye-Sublimation-Products.com
com. JBL believes the sample tiles will sell themselves.
INFO REQUEST
CONDE INTRODUCES WROUGHT IRON PRODUCTS FOR TILES
Condé™ Systems, Inc.of Mobile, AL, has added a line of wrought iron products
For more information on the products in this Product Focus section, click on the Info
to its DyeTrans™ family of tile accessories. Each of the matte black wrought
Request button at the bottom of the page, and select by company name or product.

35
GRAPHICS NEWS NETWORK MARKET PLACE
All these news and information products and services are part of the
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36
CorelDRAW® Pro CONTRIBUTING
WRITERS
Louie Alvarez started in the industry working for one of the largest trophy shops John McDaniel is the co-owner of JHM Marketing in Albany, OR, which provides
in Central California, and then opened one of the first retail laser engraving consulting and training services for the industry. He worked for many years with
businesses. He has given seminars and workshops on CorelDRAW and computers in electronic data processing and pioneered the use of CorelDraw
Laser for many years, and has written for several publications. He is now with for engraving applications. He owned a retail personalized gift shop for over ten
Vytek Industrial Lasers and is based in Las Vegas, NV. He can be reached at years, and writes about hardware design, software, laser engraving, sublimation,
alvarezwriting@gmail.com. and more. He is a Corel Training Partner, and co-founder of the Association of
CorelDRAW Professionals. For information on training and more, call 541-967-
Kathryn Arnold is the Senior Developer at LaserUniversity, sponsored 4271, or write to mail@CorelDRAWhelp.com.
by LaserBits Inc. of Phoenix, AZ. She can be reached at 1-800-733-7705 or
laseru@laserbits.com. Or visit www.laseru.com. Judy McDaniel is the co-owner of JHM Marketing in Albany, OR, which provides
consulting and training services for the industry. Her background includes many
Errol Barr has a wide range of experience in sales & marketing, eventually forms of art and retail sales, as well as the operation of a retail personalized gift
getting into laser systems in 1999, currently with Vytek Industrial Lasers. He also shop for over ten years. She is a regular columnist on sandblasting, sublimation,
sold extensively in the CNC router industry selling the machines as more of a and diversifying business, as well as a Corel Training Partner, and co-founder of
business opportunity wrapped around the machine. He can be reached by email the Association of CorelDRAW Professionals. She can be reached at 541-967-
at errolbarr@gmail.com. 4271, fax 541-967-4272, or via email at mail@CorelDRAWhelp.com.
Dave Demoret founded Prolink Graphic Services to help people understand David Milisock is president of Custom Graphic Technologies Inc. in Pennsylvania.
and profit from learning CorelDRAW. He has been in both the Flat Graphics He has been in the print production business since 1975, and specializes
Industry and the Decorating Graphics Industry for 30 years. He has written in professional support for CorelDRAW® Graphics Suite. Output includes
articles for several publications, is a Corel Training Partner, and conducts computer-to-plate processes for all commercial digital front-end applications, as
workshops nationwide and online. He is the author of several CD Instructional well as Postscript-compliant graphic applications. He offers technical and color
programs on CorelDRAW. He can be reached at 765-DO COLOR (362-6567) or management support for all RIP-driven corporate digital output systems. He can
daved@prolinkgs.com be reached at 717-509-3523 or davidmilisock@comcast.net.
Donna Gray is the president of Total Awards, Promotions, & Gift (aka AwardsMall. Deborah Sexton, former editor of Impressions Magazine, has been in the
com) in Madison, Wis. She and her husband Dave have run their full service apparel graphics industry since 1981. She currently does marketing and public
awards and personalization business since 1977. She has presented seminars relations for apparel graphics companies, and is a columnist for several industry
on a variety of topics nationwide, and has won many marketing awards. She publications.. She can be reached at dsexton@sbcglobal.net.
is the author of two books on family business, and can be reached at donna.
gray@AwardsMall.com. Otis Veteto is the Western Regional Manager for the R.S. Owens & Co. Inc.,
manufacturer and supplier of the Elegance in Awards & Gifts line. With more than
Bill Leek is a color consultant for JBL Graphics in Houston, TX, and has over 30 30 years experience in the industry, he offers the “PROspective” of a veteran
years experience in computer engineering and graphics design. He has developed sales rep in reporting on ideas, people and places that he visits. Otis also presents
several lines of color imprintable products, and does testing on a variety of sales and motivation seminars. He can be reached in Sacramento, CA – when
products for different manufacturers. He can be reached at wfleek@jblgraphics. not on the road – at 916-567-1867.
com or 281-970-6677.
Jeff McDaniel is the owner of Creative Graphic in Philomath, Oregon. He

worked as a journeyman machinist before getting into the graphic products
business. Creative Graphic offers laser engraving, rotary engraving,
sandblasting, sublimation, image transfers, vinyl signs, banners, screen printing,
and promotional products. Jeff routinely applies graphics to a wide variety of
materials. Contact him at Jeff@creativegraphic.net.

37
Traveling Tidbits
by Otis Veteto
Barbara Dorr, Laura Holt, Gary Petersen,

Morgan Petersen, and the Navy Air Crew
Barbara Thomas Dorr of Sparks, NV of his businesses. These include some very interesting enterprises like
I would like to dedicate this column to the memory of a very dear Classic Construction Models, which makes scaled brass models of
lady: Barbara Jean (Thomas) Dorr. Barbara passed away February 26, construction equipment in limited quantities sold mainly to collectors.
2008 in Sparks, NV, after losing her courageous battle to cancer. Barbara www.ccmodels.com.
and Robert Dorr purchased the Earl Butler & Assoc. company in 1988 A 2nd business is CON2R, a company that revolves around a rapid
from Bob’s stepfather. In 1996 they moved the business to Sparks. Their prototype machine used for custom emblems for show cars. CON2R has
Otis Veteto is the Western
daughter Amber is helping Robert, while also running her promotional developed new technologies to manufacture custom one-off frames for
Regional Manager for the products business, Motivision Inc. Hot Rods. Best of luck to you in your new venture, Gary!
R.S. Owens & Co. Inc., When Bob was president of SAAC (Specialty Advertising Association
manufacturer and supplier of of Calif.), Barbara fulfilled the role of “first lady” perfectly. Whether it was Morgan Petersen of Pensacola, FL
SAAC, the Rotary Club when Bob was president, or the Eastern Star Gary’s daughter Morgan is also pursuing a new vocation. AN
the Elegance in Awards & Gifts and Rainbow Girls, if there was a project to be done, Barbara was the Petersen, Morgan F. joined the Navy in October. She graduated from
line. With more than 30 years first one there and the last to leave. Navy boot camp in Great Lakes, IL, and was one of five (out of 971
experience in the industry, he At trade shows, (her very favorite part of the job), Barbara was a recruits) to receive the Navy’s Leadership Award. Morgan is currently
offers the “PROspective” of a magnet who attracted friends and strangers from every part of the country stationed in Pensacola, FL, where she is being trained to be a Navy
and the world. Barbara took seriously her role as Bob’s business partner Air Crewman Rescue Swimmer in Special Ops. This is an extremely
veteran sales rep in reporting and loving wife, and did it with grace, charm and a whole lot of heart. physically demanding school, which only the top qualifiers are selected
on ideas, people and places WE MISS YOU BARBARA. to attend. God bless and protect your daughter for doing her part in
that he visits. It’s a fun and keeping us all free.
Laura Holt of Scottsdale, AZ
informative column focusing
A HUGE Traveling Tidbits congratulations goes out to Laura Holt Navy Air Crew
on the human-interest side of for being named Distributor Woman of Distinction in the May issue of I will close with this from the Navy Air Crew creed:
the industry. Otis also presents Counselor Magazine. Laura works out of the Geiger Inc. offices in “Angels exist. The Navy makes them, and its factory is in Florida.
sales and motivation seminars Scottsdale, Arizona, and is responsible for overseeing 11 states for Navy angels wear green flight suits and snug-fitting flight helmets that
Geiger. Laura, husband Glenn, and son Tim, formed the Holt Marketing leave little room for halos or even fluffy white feathers. These guardian
for industry organizations,
Group in Scottsdale, and in 2000 merged with Geiger. For Laura her angels have faithfully stood watch over aviation crews, passengers,
and some of that knowledge current challenge in today’s economy “is keeping her sales partners aircraft and cargo since the dawn of naval aviation.”
will rub off as well. He can be motivated,” and focus on “keeping a positive attitude.” On a personal
reached in Sacramento, CA note: Laura is absolutely one of the nicest people I have ever met. Thank you, Morgan, and to all of those who serve, and have served
in the United States Armed Forces….I salute you.
– when not on the road – at Gary Petersen of Beaverton, OR
916-567-1867. After 29 ½ years, Creative Resources in Beaverton, OR, has That’s all for now! Remember to save some time for yourself and
changed hands. Gary Petersen sold the company to Alan and Gloria your family. And when you travel, please travel safe.
Gerdes on March 15. Gary is now helping his big brother with several

38

The Entrepreneurial Magazine For Coreldraw® Users Worldwide: Cover Art by Marian Miller Details On Page 7

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CorelDRAW Pro

TRAINING: How to Use APPLICATIONS: How to Apply OPPORTUNITIES: How to Proﬁt

Click “Web” to go to advertiser’s website.

Brother Int’L. Web Ad

15 Inside Color: The Raw Deal! 26 Inside Laser: Laser Engraving

CorelDRAW Pro ® May 2008

Product News Headlines: NEWS

● Transfer Express adds new 1"

● Xenetech announces VCS

● R.S. Owens offers Quick

CorelDRAW Pro ® May 2008

CorelDRAW Pro ® May 2008

EDITOR / PUBLISHER – Michael R. Neer

CorelDRAW Pro ® May 2008

Basic Blend Tool Functions

CorelDRAW Pro ® May 2008

One of the samples shown traced from a photograph

This will also work for highlights in

CorelDRAW Pro ® May 2008

The Object Manager – Layers

CorelDRAW Pro ® May 2008

The Active Layer

CorelDRAW Pro ® May 2008

layer will be listed. In the list of layers and Picture 5: In

Using Layers to Re-draw a Logo

CorelDRAW Pro ® May 2008

The Raw Deal!

With that said, NONE of the RAW converters I’ve tested

CorelDRAW Pro ® May 2008

The image on the left is most often picked by individuals

Please remember this as part of your color management

David Milisock is president of Custom Graphic Technologies Inc n Lancaster, PA. He

CorelDRAW Pro ® May 2008

Transferring Images to Tile:

5) Unglazed bisque can be decorated to provide an

6) Unisub coated hardwood tiles can be utilized as an

DIGITAL TRANSFER METHODS:

FULL COLOR INKJET AND LASER SUBLIMATION

CorelDRAW Pro ® May 2008

These tiles are ideal for outdoor patios, murals, fountains,

COLOR LASER PRINTER TRANSFER

CorelDRAW Pro ® May 2008

porcelain, unglazed bisque, tumbled somewhat labor intensive and the

CorelDRAW Pro ® May 2008

Our setup and yours

CorelDRAW Pro ® May 2008

Jeff McDaniel is the Owner/Operator of Creative Graphic in

curing is the process of heating the top layer of ink enough so

Inking the screens and squeegees

Proper printing stroke

CorelDRAW Pro ® May 2008

Applying the glue Applying the mask Attaching the mask 1

CorelDRAW Pro ® May 2008

Attaching the mask 2 Trimming the mask

CorelDRAW Pro ® May 2008

Hardware Design: – Motors Part 2

CorelDRAW Pro ® May 2008

CorelDRAW Pro ® May 2008

Laser Engraving Anodized Aluminum

CorelDRAW Pro ® May 2008

CorelDRAW Pro ® May 2008

Expand Your Services With