Labeling with FPD

[dmp]

I've used a Ptouch PT-2600 for labeling for years, but as I'm unable to get the drivers to work with Win10, I am thinking of switching to Avery matte clear vinyl labels, like this
This would be a big improvement as the size would be bigger than the max 1" of the Ptouch.

I can create nice front panel designs with front panel designer. First question though is I can't figure out how to export a pdf (or print directly within FPD) with the background color completely clear. Even Perspex 'clear' has tint to the background in the pdf. I'm trying to create a white lettered design to put on a black painted 500 series panel. I could print the whole label with a black background color but that seems less ideal than printing clear. Images show what I'm working on, one with black background, one with clear.

Second question, any other good ways to make the design for printing on the clear labels? Or other tips on accomplishing this?

 

[inf0]

I usually export pdfs from FPD and import them in illustrator or corel . From there you can select the background and delete it , if FPD adds a tint for some reason

 

[dmp]

I don't have illustrator or corel, but I tried using a few different free options. I found a free windows package called paintdotnet that worked pretty well.
Here is the design with the background removed. I have a package of Avery clear labels on the way to try it with.

 

[dmp]

Did not work, printed labels with or without the black background removed did not have visible lettering once applied to the faceplate.

 

[totoxraymond]

Gimp or inkscape come to mind if you are searching for alternatives to Photoshop/illustrator.

 

[dmp]

I don't think the avery labels with an inkjet printer will work. For a black panel, anyway. The text shows up on a silver aluminum panel.

 

[thelivingroom]

I don't think the avery labels with an inkjet printer will work. For a black panel, anyway. The text shows up on a silver aluminum panel.

I think it’s because inkjets don’t/can’t actually print anything for white, and would only show as white if it were printed with the black background and affixed to a white panel. I came across that fairly recently while learning how to properly set up graphics In Illustrator for UV printing, to help Frank eliminate a couple of steps that he has to do when I’d just send him FPD files. UV printers can print white ink, so I have to make a separate layer for white and do a couple of other things to force it to print white, otherwise it would just leave anything that’s white blank.