Putting Time on Your Side

Does it seem that time is beyond our control? The effective use of time is controllable, if we use the right tools and use them correctly. I have discussed time and tool issues before, but this article delves into more recent tools I have added to boost the efficiency of my signmaking business. Most of them are simple additions, yet they save me time compared to my old methods.

Straight-edged time savers

Don’t underestimate the value of a good straight-edge tool. I recently bought two SpeedPress Sign Supplies(San Diego) safety rulers from to speed up banner production, substrate trimming and stripe generation. Each featured a 2.6-in. wide anti-slip base with a comfortable grip. There is also a built-in ruler that slides out and permits measurements beyond the length of the tool.

A transparent sliding marker is another great gadget. The marker moves alongside the ruler scales, allowing the user to set centers or repeat cutting lengths efficiently. The construction of this lightweight tool makes for a rigid, exact straightedge that won’t warp unless you drive a truck over it. The two straightedges I have are 52- and 100-in. long, respectively. These should allow that extra length you need for most substrates. An easy-to-use utility knife, combined with a safety ruler, will make banner-cutting a breeze.

For best results with a straight-edge, I recommend picking up a 4-ft. T-square from your local hardware store. Drywall installers use them to make square, to-the-edge cross-cuts, and they can be used to cut expanded PVC, corrugated plastic and magnetic signs. I add adhesive-backed step tread (also available from most hardware stores) for anti-slip purposes to my T-square.

Take the trolley

Take a lesson from the janitorial trade. Don’t keep walking back to the storage closet. Transport all your essentials to your job easily with a wheeled cart instead. I added one to my operation in the past year, and it really cuts down on the trips back to the shop for supplies and tools.

My tool trolley keeps everything ready for use when I have an out-of-shop installation, such as vehicle applications. The cart holds everything, and even has a built-in trash bag. There is room for a heat gun, drill, cord reel and various chemicals. I have yet to install the CD player, graphic equalizer and speakers.

The front deck can also be used as a dolly for transporting heavy objects around the shop. I removed the manufacturer’s logo with the aid of The Exciter’s (Auburn, CA) Vinyl Tech aerosol and applied a SignChef decal so as to advertise my service rather than the janitor supplier.

Organization and safety

Tools are only useful when they can be found. Good organizational habits are vital in maintaining an efficient shop. Tool organizers are readily available at hardware stores. Some shops use wall grids; if correctly supported, ceiling hangers can also save space. The least expensive way to keep tools in place is via good, old-fashioned pegboard. Outlining tools on pegboard makes replacing them after use simple.

An organized shop is a safer shop. I insert drill bits and saw blades into scrap blocks of high-density urethane. This makes them easy to find and protects the tools and their users. For safety, label the side of the block, "Caution — Sharp Tools!"

The greatest tool

The most wonderful tool we have is time. We don’t own it, yet we charge for it! Increasing productivity by adding time-saving tools makes sense. Simple tools will often save more time than the most high-tech tools used in signmaking. I suggest frequently reviewing supplier catalogs in search of better time-management tools. Budget monthly for buying these tools. Learn to properly use the implements you acquire. Then, enjoy some free time.