by administrator | Sep 3, 2018 | Blog
Traditional whiteboards come with limitations in terms of size, the kind of space it requires, and in terms of functionality. Writable walls can circumnavigate these limitations (quite literally) and add a fresh dynamic to an office space.
With writable walls, you can bid farewell to the fear of running out of board space while expressing ideas. You can invite collaboration and enhance the free flow of creativity in offices, schools, and even at home. The best part is that you can create writable walls out of regular walls by yourself.
Two different ways of creating writable walls
There are two ways of creating a writable wall.
With either of the above methods, you can turn a regular wall into a dry-erase writable surface. You can use dry-erase markers to write on them and clean them up with microfibre cloths.
Depending on the surface, one method of creating a writable wall may be more suitable than the other. For instance, it is easier to apply the whiteboard paint on unusual surfaces that have obstructions like a switchboard, a pillar, a window or any other fixture. On the other side, if you have a large, plain wall, it is easier and faster to apply the whiteboard wallpaper.
If you are unsure what product to choose for your writable walls, get in touch with our product advisors. They will take a look at your wall and suggest the best product and application method for you.
A step-by-step guide to creating a writable wall with whiteboard paint
Step 1: Prepare the wall
Look for inconsistencies, holes, or bumps on the surface. Use a regular decorator’s filler to fill up any holes or cracks. Use sandpaper to get rid of inconsistencies or debris
Step 2: Prime the wall
Use two coats of high-quality primer to prime the wall. Wait for 2-4 hours in between the coats for the primer to dry. Priming the wall is not necessary if your wall is freshly painted.
Step 3: Prepare the whiteboard paint
The smart whiteboard paint comes in two parts – part A and part B. Pour all of part A into part B and stir it well for at least 5 minutes.
Step 4: Applying the whiteboard paint
Start applying the whiteboard paint to small sections with a roller. Make sure that you soak the roller evenly but not so much that the paint drips from it or hinders the rolling motion. Roll the paint vertically with even pressure.
The detailed application guide and installation videos will help you along the way.
Once you are done with a section, check it from different angles to ensure no inconsistencies.
The paint will be touch dry in 4 hours but you should wait 4 days for the paint to cure properly.
A step-by-step guide to applying whiteboard wallpaper
The application process for the whiteboard wallpaper has only three steps.
- Stir the vinyl-over-vinyl wallpaper adhesive to reach a smooth consistency, you can add up to 10% water if needed.
- Ensure you have a smooth surface and apply two coats of adhesive with a roller.
- Apply the wallpaper following the instructions in our wallpaper installation guide.
It is normal for air bubbles to form underneath the wallpaper while installing. Use a plastic spatula to push the excess adhesive towards the edges. You can use a damp cloth to clean any adhesive residue. Your writable wall will be ready and fully functional within 24 hours.
Making your writable walls more interesting
You can have a magnetic whiteboard wall using one of two methods:
- Apply 4 coats of magnetic paint before applying the primer and then apply the whiteboard paint.
Or
- Use the magnetic whiteboard wallpaper instead of the regular whiteboard wallpaper.
You can have a writable wall that doubles as a projector screen by using the matt whiteboard paint or by applying the low-sheen whiteboard wallpaper.
Smarter Surfaces also offers a magnetic projector screen whiteboard wallpaper that ties three functionalities into one product. This wallpaper gives you a writable wall that you can stick magnets to and project on with short-throw or long-throw projectors.
Creating writable walls in the colour of your choice
If you have a freshly painted wall that you want to turn into a whiteboard without changing its colour, Smarter Surfaces has the perfect product for you. All you need to do is apply a coat of clear whiteboard paint and the surface will be ready to use as a whiteboard within 4 days.
In fact, you can turn a wooden wall into a writable wall by adding an extra step.
First, apply two coats of clear primer on the wooden surface to close up its pores. Then, apply the clear whiteboard paint to get a writable wall without losing the natural finish.
The dry-erase self-adhesive films are perfect for turning wooden tabletops, glass doors, or metal panels into writable surfaces.
4 key benefits of having a writable wall
- It turns a boring office wall into a centre for communication and collaboration.
- In a classroom, students will never run out of space while expressing their ideas.
- It’s a great space for recreational activities like quizzes and games.
- With the added qualities of magnetic receptibility and projectability, the writable walls become hubs of innovation and convenient communication.
If you are having trouble deciding what product you should use for your specific needs, it’s quite normal. That is why the experts at Smarter Surfaces are always available to offer you insights and help you find the right fit. You can get personalised advice from our product advisors and industry experts, and we won’t charge you for that. Book a video consultation now.
by administrator | Aug 30, 2018 | Blog
Gone are the days of static walls. Writable wallpapers are revolutionising offices and classrooms across Australia, offering a sleek and functional way to transform your space. But with a new product comes a flurry of questions. Is it right for me? How to install it? Is it durable or customisable?
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about writable wallpapers, empowering you to make informed decisions and unlock the full potential of your walls.
What is writable wallpaper and where to get it
As the name suggests, writable wallpapers are a specialised type of wallcoverings that turn any wall into a dry erase board. Once applied on a surface, you can use it as a functional, high-quality whiteboard.
More advanced products can turn the surface into a magnetic whiteboard or projector screen whiteboard too.
This saves space and the hassle of a traditional whiteboard installation. Also, eliminates drawbacks like — ghosting, maintenance hassle, and space limitations, inherent to any basic whiteboard.
Smarter Surfaces is a market leader in writable surface solutions. Our collection includes all types of writable wallcoverings. Starting with the simple Whiteboard Wallpaper, which turns any wall into a whiteboard, to the 2-in-1 Magnetic Whiteboard Wallpaper and the Projector Whiteboard Wallpaper. While the magnetic variety also delivers magnetic functionalities along with a no-ghosting whiteboard, the low-sheen wallpaper works as a writing surface, plus, a projector screen.
The collection even extends to the innovative 3-in-1 writable projection wallcoverings — Magnetic Projector Screen Whiteboard Wallpaper, which works as an all-in-one magnetic whiteboard plus projector screen.
Before making a decision, you must want to know how to install apply write on wallpapers. Will you need professional help? Here’s the answer.
How do I apply writable wallpapers?
The process of writable wallpaper installation is simple. It’s not really much different than traditional wallpaper installation. There are only some tips and tricks to perfect it.
Once you have decided on the area, first you need to prepare the surface to make sure that it’s flat and smooth. If it’s an already treated, smooth surface, you may directly start with the adhesive application. However, if the surface is highly absorbent, like in the case of new plasters or concrete, you should treat it with a good primer first.
Once the surface is primed and ready, the next step is to find out what you should use to apply the dry erase wallpaper.
You will need a specialised adhesive — the vinyl over vinyl wallpaper adhesive for the task. Once the surface is ready and completely dry, apply two coats of the adhesive. Add 10% water to the adhesive and stir well to ensure a uniform consistency before application.
After applying the second coat of the adhesive, stick the writable wallpaper right on it and use the flat edge of any plastic bar to push out any air bubbles. Then you can trim it to size with a sharp knife. Make sure that the seams of the wallcovering stick properly till the end. Let it curate for 24 to 48 hours depending on the type of wallcovering.
Here’s a video of the application process. Follow the instructions step-by-step to get it right, always.
There’s no need to worry about the right direction to hang the wallpaper. It can be hung horizontally as well as vertically. But, we recommend hanging it horizontally to facilitate working at eye level.
Not sure how to manage the joints or seams? When it comes to hanging any wallcovering, writable or not, minimising the appearance of the seams or joints can be a challenge.
Follow the double cut seam technique. It involves overlapping the edges of the wallpaper slightly, then using a sharp tool to cut a straight line through both layers. The excess is then removed, leaving a clean and hidden seam.
Our writable wallpapers can be applied on any smooth surface. It sticks effortlessly on walls, plaster, concrete, wood partitions, doors, and even on metals. This gives complete freedom to customise your space according to your needs and the aesthetics of the room. Additionally, there are other unusual surfaces that can be converted into writable space with our suitable products.
If you don’t have much DIY experience or are planning to cover a wider area, you may opt for professional installation assistance.
Customising writable wallpapers
Unlike traditional whiteboards, writable wallpapers can be easily customised in terms of size and design to suit different preferences and spaces. The rolls are available in different dimensions — from the compact 2m² to the large 10m² , to fit the exact space requirements. We even provide write on wallcoverings in customised roll sizes for larger projects.
Cut the wallpaper evenly with a sharp knife to give it any shape you prefer. It can also be applied on curved surfaces to match any space.
The whiteboard wallpaper is also available in a low sheen version that doubles as a projector screen. This Smart projector wallcovering can be used with all projectors, including the standard models as well as the more advanced interactive, 4K, and 3D varieties for showcasing images, presentations, and videos in office or educational setups.
Now that you have the wallpaper on your walls, here is how you can use it the right way.
Using write on wallpapers
Our range of write on wallpapers is designed for commercial grade performance, meaning you can use them just like any other dry-erase board right after the curation time.
There are no specific types of markers or writing instruments recommended for use on these wallpapers. Use your regular dry erase marker to write. Just make sure that your marker is of good quality. Do not use permanent markers to write on it. If you use a permanent marker by accident, use only a recommended Permanent Marker Remover to remove the mark completely.
For regular erasing, either use your normal dry-erase marker eraser or get a microfibre cloth. Before use, always make sure that the eraser is clean.
Our high-quality writable wallpapers don’t need any special maintenance. Just wipe it down after every use and keep it free from dust, and it will provide uninterrupted service for years.
These wallpapers are non-ghosting. So, once erased, any stains or marks are removed completely. You might use a good quality Dry Erase Cleaner once a month to keep the surface completely free from dust and grime.
Our wallpapers do not yellow or chip over time. They deliver top-level functionality for years without any downtime for minimal to no upkeep. Wondering if this product comes with a guarantee? Let us tell you, our writable wallcoverings are backed by a 10-year-long product guarantee for complete peace of mind.
Have more questions?
Writable wallpapers can transform any office or educational space without breaking the bank. It nurtures creativity, communication, and collaboration that can improve overall understanding and performance.
If you’re looking for the best writing wallpaper, try our range of products and see how they enhance your space. If you have any more questions, book a no-obligation call with our experts today.
by administrator | Aug 19, 2018 | Blog
You can realise the value of writable surfaces around the office only after you’ve had them for some time. They add a fresh dynamic to the workspace. Every wall in the office has the potential to become a fountain of ideas. Smarter Surfaces specialises in converting regular walls, furniture, and virtually any smooth surface into a supercharged collaborative haven with nanoengineered dry-erase paints, multi-functional wallpapers, and magnetic paints and plasters.
In this post, we’ll discuss how you can create smart writable surfaces around your office and how the endeavour can tap into the innovative and collaborative potential of your workforce.
5 writable surfaces we’ll explore
- A whiteboard wall in white
- A whiteboard wall in your brand colours
- Magnetic whiteboard walls in white and in any colour
- Projection screen magnetic whiteboard walls
- Writable desks, doors, and other surfaces
A whiteboard wall in white
A whiteboard wall with a white finish is the closest alternative to a traditional whiteboard but it’s better. The white writable wall is suitable for meeting rooms, conference halls, etc. It opens up possibilities like using the same wall as a whiteboard and a projection screen.
There are two methods of creating a whiteboard wall in white.
- You can apply whiteboard paint to the wall
- You can install a whiteboard wallpaper.
Either way, you end up with a large whiteboard wall that you can write on with dry-erase markers. The nature of the wall may suit one method more than the other. For instance, if your wall has permanent fixtures like electrical panels or switchboards, whiteboard paint is more suitable as you can tape off the fixtures and paint around them. On the other hand, the wallpaper is easier to install and becomes ready faster.
A whiteboard wall in your brand colours
You can have a whiteboard wall in any colour. It can be a great opportunity to deck up your office with functional yet aesthetically pleasing walls that are consistent with your brand. The product you need for this is clear whiteboard paint.
Clear whiteboard paint can be applied to a painted wall directly provided that the paint is not worn out and the wall is smooth. In the case of a wooden wall, you’d need to first apply a couple of coats of clear primer to treat the porous surface.
Magnetic whiteboard wall
Adding magnetic properties to an office wall creates some interesting opportunities. You can stick notes to it, keep important information handy, and get rid of unreliable thumbtacks. A magnetic whiteboard surface lets you write and stick information with magnets at the same time.
You can create a magnetic whiteboard wall using paint or by installing wallpapers.
Smarter Surfaces’ magnetic paint and super magnetic paint are perfect for the job. These paints are infused with magnetite – a mineral ore with ferrimagnetic properties. 4-6 coats of the magnetic paint enables a regular wall to hold 4 to 5 sheets of A4-size paper.
To create a white magnetic whiteboard, you need to cover the magnetic wall with white water-based primer and then apply whiteboard paint in white.
You can apply any colour of your choice to the magnetic wall and then apply a coat of clear whiteboard paint to have a magnetic whiteboard wall in any colour.
Alternatively, you can cover a regular wall with a magnetic whiteboard wallpaper to get a magnetic whiteboard surface in white.
Projection screen magnetic whiteboard walls
With the right set of products, you can create multi-functional surfaces that work as whiteboards, magnetic boards, and projection screens.
The projection screen magnetic whiteboard wallpaper is designed for these specific purposes. This wallpaper gives you a three-in-one wall that can be the centrepiece of any meeting room.
You can achieve the same multi-functional wall using paint too. First, you need to create a magnetic wall using magnetic or super magnetic paint. Then, you prime it and let the primer dry. After that, you cover the wall with low-sheen whiteboard paint that can be used as a projection screen.
Writable desks, doors, and other surfaces
You can turn any smooth wooden or metallic surface into a whiteboard for writing, drawing, and collaborating using our self-adhesive films, available in white, clear, and projectable low sheen.
The films turn your furniture, doors, and metal panels into writable surfaces where you can write with a dry-erase marker. These films are easy to install and come with a 5-year performance guarantee. You can also use the self adhesive films to refurbish old, worn out whiteboards in the office.
Unusual Ways To Use Writable Surfaces
Writable surfaces offer a multitude of creative and practical uses beyond the traditional office or classroom spaces. Sports teams can enhance their pre-match planning and communication using Whiteboard Paint, while weddings can benefit from Chalkboard Paint for seating plans and directions. You can turn your office space with murals or simplify tasks like office lunch orders with writable walls. The possibilities are endless.
How to maintain writable surfaces
A writable surface created using our products can be used at peak performance for years. For that to happen, your paint or wallpaper needs to be applied correctly and maintained properly.
You can always refer to application guidelines and tutorial videos to ensure the perfect application of the products. As far as maintenance is concerned, you need to take care of three things.
- Use dry-erase markers and microfibre cloths for writing and wiping
- Use a dry-erase cleaner clean the surfaces periodically
- Use a permanent marker remover for occasional cleaning of stains.
The best way to learn what product you should choose for your specific needs is to book a free video consultation with the product experts at Smarter Surfaces. You can show us your wall or surface, tell us what you are looking for, and our experts will guide you to the best solution possible.
by administrator | Jul 30, 2018 | Blog
Ever been interested in having a whiteboard surface in your office?
Maybe you’re curious what benefits it could possible have?
Smart Wall Paint or Smart Dry Erase Wallcovering and you can have a whiteboard surface in any shape and size you choose.
But how can you use them ?
Below you’ll find just some of the top ways you can make use of a whiteboard surface in your space.
Meetings
Create a whiteboard surface in your meeting room and watch how quickly your meetings become more effective.
List your meeting agenda. As the meeting progresses, capture actions, owners and delivery dates. Need to change something ? want to alter the action ? no problem – just wipe and write. Again and again.
As you can see in the photo below it is not only a productive way of working but also gets your colleagues to actively partake in meetings.
Plus they have fun doing it.
Brainstorming
It’s likely that since you’re working in a business that you’ll need to prepare for meetings or come up with new ideas.
With a whiteboard surface you can see the ‘big picture.’ Writing all your ideas on the wall and then expanding on them without any restrictions in space.
You won’t be able to do that with a notebook or a flipchart.
It’s time to update your walls. Transform them into whiteboard surfaces.
Writable desks
Smart surfaces aren’t just restricted to the meeting room though, you can convert your very own desk into one.
You won’t need to waste your time searching through your notes anymore. They’ll be jotted down directly onto your desk. Just use Smart Wall Paint in Clear.
It’s a great way of saving paper and keeping track of your to-do lists. See picture.
Calendars
Want your colleagues to remember important dates or events?
Draw up a monthly calendar on one of your walls that everyone can fill in.
You’ll know when vital meetings are taking place or keep track of who is away on holidays.
Having a giant calendar on your wall can also look cool to potential clients or people who come into your office for meetings.
Project Plans
See at a glance project steps and status. Get it on the wall. Track it and update as and when you need. Write on, wipe off.
Have you any questions regarding our products? Call us on the relevant number below
US: 1800 932 1609 UK: 0203 5145395
IE: 01 4126200 CA: 1800 948 9438
