Resources
Spec Card
A useful spec card for South African wall-art projects, for teams handling sizes, materials, finishes and fixing methods.
When Spec Card guides print and install work
Spec Card captures the key technical details for a wall art item before production or fitting. It brings together sizes, materials, finishes and fixing methods in one working reference.
A good Spec Card starts with the exact wall dimensions, substrate choice and fixing method for the piece. Include whether the site has painted brick, skimmed plaster, glass, timber panelling or drywall, because each surface changes how vinyl, canvas, acrylic or framed prints can be fitted. Projects near the coast around Durban or Cape Town should also note salt air and damp, while Gauteng jobs often need dust and handling checks during installation.
Keep the Spec Card with the artwork file, room photos and final measurements for that wall-art item. Installers and print staff use it to confirm trim size, bleed, laminate, edge detail and mounting hardware before anything is packed. One page that lists the finish and fixing requirements is easier to check on site than a long mail thread.
Details captured on one card
The card should record finished size, print orientation, material, protective finish and how the work will be mounted. It also helps the team spot conflicts early, such as a heavy framed piece planned for weak drywall or a glare-prone acrylic face in a bright boardroom. For multi-panel wall art, note spacing between panels and the full installed width.
Use Spec Card alongside the linked pages for Software, Substrates and Design notes when technical choices still need to be locked in. Before sending anything through the contact form, check the final measurements, material choice and any fixing method that cannot be used on that site. Add notes about access limits, lift size, after-hours fitting or glass partitions if they affect handling.
- Finished size, orientation and bleed noted
- Mounting surface checked before print approval
- Room photos attached with measurements
Site conditions that change specs
South African wall-art jobs often vary by building type, access and climate, so the card should reflect the actual site conditions. Apartment installations may need lift dimensions and restricted drilling notes, while retail and hospitality work often needs clear placement details for wayfinding walls, reception areas or guest rooms. If brand artwork, colour references or franchise rules apply, record them on the same sheet.
Coastal conditions can affect adhesive choices and some laminated finishes, especially in humid interiors. Inland projects may need extra attention to static, dust and cleaning methods for acrylic fronts or framed glazing. During load-shedding periods, print scheduling and fitting windows can shift, so timing notes on the card help the whole team work from the same reference.
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Spec Card content to include
Send the Spec Card with wall photos, measurements, timing, and details of materials, finishes or mounting methods that have already proved unsuitable. Keep the subject line factual.
Complete the Spec Card before production starts, not after files have gone to print. Attach the room image, measured wall width and height, chosen material, finish level, edge treatment and mounting notes so approvals are based on the same technical information. For replacements or updates to existing pieces, mention what is being matched, removed or kept on site.