I am putting up the fascia that goes around the layout. I am looking fo suggestions on how to print the labels my turnout control knobs. the fascia is a medium green. I would like the label type face to be white, but maybe it depend on what’s out there for labeling techniques
Thanks for any suggestions,
Mr Mick
Head to Office Max/Office Depot and purchase a Brother Compact Label Maker the model that uses 1/2" wide labels with white background and black lettering (other colors are also available). Multiple style lettering designs, font sizes, and all sorts of other options including borders and multiple line text. If you require a lot of labels buy the three pack of tape for a better deal.
Frank
Another option is to make signs/labels using presentation software, such as MS PowerPoint or Open Office Impress. You can make signs with white lettering and colored background. Using the shape you could make signs that look like switch targets. They could be color coded to indicate main vs. secondary tracks. The signs could be printed on paper and glued to the fascia with rubber cement. Or they could be laminated, cut out and attached with rubber cement or double sided tape.
I have the same task looming … And I dont like the look of label maker labels. PowerPoint + Color Laser printer (with color carefully matched to facia) would work. I might have to sand and paint the edges after gluing to hide them. My fascia is medium-dark green.
So far I have not come up with any other idea to make labels.
This is what I use:
They even make clear tape with opaque lettering.
If you have access to either a laser engraver or CNC machine, you could use 2-ply plastic engraving sheet. They have lots of different color combos, including metallic finishes. Here’s what it looks like…
Steve S
I would never give up my Brother label maker. I use it with the flexible 3/4 inch tape to mark my wires. With 1/4 inch tape I label everything in my wiring. I even use it to put simulated metal labels on my wife’s Nooks and our cell phones. I use it to put my grandson’s name on his school books, lunch box, back pack, and Scout items.
I know those old label makers from years ago were ugly, but this system looks very professional. Check out the manual:
Pages 34 to 40 show some of the labels you can make. Page 39 in the PDF or 33 in the printed manual even shows the cable wrap that I mentioned.
Dave,
i agree with you the Brother label maker is awesome and fun to use. Very professional looking labels.
Frank
ROAR
Great.
It would be of some help if you describes us how you did it. [;)]
Phoebe, Can the Brother label maker do white labels on clear tape? Do you have a photo?
Lion, Scintilating! But how did you make them?
My machine takes the TZ tapes.
I think the clear tape is only available with black print, but I am not sure.
A great many color combinations and styles are available.
I don’t have any photos readily available.
My error. White on clear IS available.
http://www.brother-usa.com/supplies/tape-labels/adhesive.aspx
I used individual self- adhesive vinyl letters from a stationery store rather than labels. Makes a nice, professional looking fascia and is easy and quick.
http://public.fotki.com/sbhunterca/model-railroad/cardigan-c.html
Steve Hunter
The labeler I use can make labels up to 3/4 inch by many inches long, with or without borders in 3 different fonts. The silver tape looks like metal. The clear tape is nearly invisible. The flexible 3/4 inch tape wraps around wire to label it. It is nothing like that old Dymo tapewriter of days gone by.