I'm not sure where to post this, but I guess materials & tools is the best place.

I wanted some sticky-back plastic to make the outlines on our intended control panel top. Checking the obvious outlets, it's a horendous price, and no plain colours available.
Calling in to my friendly sign-writers to scrounge some off cuts of Foamex, I asked him how much would an A3 piece of self-adhesive vinyl cost. 'Nothing - just help yourself from the scrap bin'

I ended up with six large pieces of sticky-back, in green, silver, blue, yellow, black, and grey…
But heres the good bit-

He asked me what it was for. After I explained he said if you draw out your control Panel on the computer, with all the whistles and bells, colours and text, bring it in on a disc or memory stick, we can print it out for you on 3mm Foamex or Perspex - 12" x 24" will cost £14…

Go and visit your local Sign-writer!

Thanks for the idea. I have a local sign writer and I  am  going to be embarking on my layout mimic panels shortly.

I may pay him a visit. He might also be able to make my layout " name board ".

Good thinking

Cheers

Toto