Multi-Color Vinyl Signs

I love vinyl, I mean I really love it. I have it all over my house. I use it to decorate, organize, and to just make things cute. But, sometimes, the regular one color vinyl sign isn't enough. Sometimes...I need more color! I'm going to show you how I create multi-color vinyl signs. I know every program and digital cutter is different, but for the most part, I think these instructions should work (or at least get you on the right track).

I start with the image I'm going to cut. I size it and center it on my axis.

Then, I add four arrows to the outside edge of the image. Two are vertically centered and the other two are horizontally centered. I also add small x's inside the graphic (these are used as registration marks).

Next, I color the letters and shapes to match the vinyl I will be using (you may need to ungroup everything first). If this step can't be done in your software program, it can be skipped. It just makes it a little easier to see what color it's going to be.

Copy and paste the graphic so there are as many graphics as the number of colors you will be cutting. I'm cutting two colors, so I made two graphics

Then, in each graphic, delete the parts you don't want in that color. Be sure you don't delete any x's. The arrows only need to be on one graphic - the color you will apply to your project first.

Cut, weed, and tape your vinyl. Use a ruler or straight edge and draw a line that extends from tip to tip of the triangles, horizontally and vertically.

Measure the center points of the edges of the surface you will be applying the vinyl to. Draw straight lines that connect these points (use pencil or something that can easily be cleaned off).

Remove the vinyl from the backing. Position so the lines all match up. Apply the vinyl (including the x's) to your surface.

Remove the backing from the next color. Match up the x's and apply the vinyl.

After all layers of the vinyl have been applied, you can carefully remove the x's and arrows and clean off the pencil marks.

Leave as is, or drill holes and attach wire or ribbon to hang.

This was a super simple two color design. You probably could have put this together without all the extra work. But when you have more complex multi-color designs, these extra steps ensure you will get great results every time.