Leteron System Help and advice please?

[NeilRoss]

quote David Litster:

Hi Everyone have bought this thing have no idea what it does but was only a fiver at a carboot sale so thought it might be worth a play have no Idea how it works or what it does has anyone ever used one or can anyone shed any light on what it can be used for? Many thanks
Bordersdave

David,

A photograph would be useful – if I recall correctly they did more than one machine. I bought one way back in the early 80s that did letters up to 4 inch (100mm) high. They were the forerunner to the Spandex computerised machines. Basically they worked on the principle of loading the machine with a roll of specially produced vinyl (actually I think it was acrylic) – then insert metal letter templates and either turn a handle one revolution (or the smaller ones were electrically operated). One rev moved the material forward to accept the next letter etc. The material had three layers (backing paper, adhesive material, clear carrier tape. Way back then it was all pretty effective and quick compared to hand lettering – and no drying time. The problem was you were stuck with a selection of typefaces in different sizes and therefore not flexible like the new technology. I used to use a lot for bog standard industrial site (type) signs. I wouldn’t expect you would get the proper material to use in it now though. I remember trying vinyl in it but the dies (letter templates) wouldn’t cut through the material properly. Just another piece of history now but quite effective in its day.