FAB-TAC is compatible on Hewlett-Packard DesignJet®, Encad NovaJet®/Pro/Proe, ColorSpan® Displaymaker, Epson Stylus, Canon iPF series, and other water-based piezo printers. The universal coating can be used with both dye and pigment inks. Although dye-based inks provide a higher color gamut, premature ink fading can occur. Pigment inks provide a more stable image from light fade. GX inks results in premature fade. Non-uniform solid colors can occur when printing with Encad GO inks.

To optimize print quality, printers should be set for Enhanced Multi-Pass on Encad printers. Heavy Coated Paper on HP printers. Enhanced Matte Paper on the Canon iPF series. The recommended ink saturation level is 300%. If increased density is wanted, the fabric can accept 400%, but some bleeding will occur at higher saturation areas.

ICC profiles can be obtained for selected RIP, ink, and printer.

To obtain a high degree of water resistance, use only pigment ink. Dyebased inks will yield good color gamut, but with repeated exposure to water, bleeding may occur. Let image dry 24 hours before exposing to moisture. Dirt and stains can not be cleaned from the imaged surface. Surface protection is recommended to protect the surface from dirt and abrasion. Excessive folding or creasing can damage the imaged surface.

Once print is completed, roll imaged media (with the graphics facing inward) onto a core until ready for use. Folding of the material is not recommended. Unimaged material should be stored at 72° F (+/-5°) for no more than 6 months to obtain maximum adhesion values. After use, the roll should be stored in its original packaging in the poly bag.


FAB-TAC is designed for smooth, flat surfaces such as: Stainless steel, aluminum, glass, styrene, polycarbonate, Plexiglas®, Sintra®, Gatorfoam® and Fome-Core®. Note that surfaces like stainless steel and aluminum allow for greater adhesive bond and may leave adhesive residue during removal. Do not apply FAB-TAC to uneven or curved surfaces such as 90o bends. For these applications, we recommend our DMCVLA3 cast vinyl product which is designed to conform to curved surfaces. Textured surfaces and wood tend to promote poor adhesion. Pretest your specific substrate for compatibility and for the ability to remove from the intended surface prior to the actual application.

Always ensure that the receiving substrate is thoroughly cleaned, free of dust, dirt or cleaner residues. Painted surfaces should be painted with latex paint containing no waxes or silicones. Metal and glass surfaces can be cleaned with standard glass cleaners. Poor surface conditions will cause adhesion loss or failure. Minimum surface temperature is 50oF (10oC). Life expectancies can vary depending on mounting surface and weather conditions.

Proper contact of the adhesive to mounting substrate is critical and maximum pressure should be used during installation. If insufficient pressure is used during the install, the edges can lift. It is recommended that a cold roll laminator be used to give adequate, even pressure during application. For installations by hand, use application tape and a squeegee with sufficient pressure. It is not recommended to use water during the installation.

A liquid laminate may be used. Let image dry for 24 hours before applying a finish. Always pretest liquid laminates for compatibility.

When removing FAB-TAC from any surface, remove slowly and lift at a 90° angle. Different surfaces will have different adhesion characteristics. Glass, stainless steel, and aluminum surfaces usually promote higher adhesive bonds, are more difficult to remove and may leave adhesive residue during removal. If during the removal adhesive transfer happens, soapy warm warm water and aggressive rubbing with a cloth should remove adhesive. For surfaces with more difficult adhesive removal, isopropyl alcohol (a.k.a.- IPA or rubbing alcohol) can be used.