Vinyl Application Instructions - DRAFT

In this article, we’ll explore techniques to apply vinyl lettering or decals to any smooth surface. These techniques can be applied to rigid (plastic, aluminum, etc.) or non-rigid surfaces (banners, etc.), however it’s best to secure non-rigid surfaces to a more rigid surface, such as a tabletop with the use of clamps or tape.

All surfaces need to be thoroughly cleaned and free from wax, dirt, dust, etc. We recommend using denatured alcohol, however a good glass cleaner (such as Windex) will usually work. Remember to test any cleaning product on an inconspicuous place to ensure that it doesn’t do any damage to the painted surface.

The air and surface temperature should be around 50F to 90F. Installation in direct sunlight or excessively windy or dusty conditions is not recommended.

Place the vinyl lettering on the sign or vehicle surface in the area where the decal will be applied. Placement should be reasonably accurate and the decal should appear straight, we’ll fine-tune it before final application. Attach small pieces of masking tape at the top of the decal to hold it in place.

Using a ruler or tape measure, make sure the vinyl lettering or decal has equal spacing at both sides by adjusting one corner at a time. If applying a decal to a large window or sign face, a level will be essential! If the decal or sign face is an odd shape, it’s often best to stand back and see if it’s well placed and level.

In the case of a vehicle application, often the on the side doors can be used as a point of reference – they can be considered the straightest point on the vehicle. It’s often best to look at your car, boat, van or truck from about 10 feet away and ask yourself what “looks straight”; this will usually make the best point of reference.

1. Tape the vinyl lettering (see techniques a, b and c below). Gently across the surface of the vinyl lettering to ensure good adhesion between the lettering and the application tape.

1. 1. Tape entirely across the top of the vinyl lettering (continue to step 2).

1. 1. Cut the lettering apart using scissors or a sharp utility knife, from the bottom towards the masking tape “hinge”, being sure not to cut any vinyl lettering, or scratch the surface. Each section can then be applied separately (continue to step 2).

1. 1. Tape down the vertical center of the decal, peel back one side of the decal and gently peel away the backing paper up to the masking tape “hinge” in the center”. With scissors or a sharp utility knife, cut away the excess backing paper, being sure not to scratch the surface (continue to step 3).

1. Lift the vinyl lettering up and gently peel away the backing paper, leaving the sticky side of the vinyl lettering and application tape exposed.

1. While holding the vinyl lettering in place, lightly spray the entire area (sticky side) and the surface of the sign with our . This will help aid in a bubble free installation, as well as allowing you to gently lift the letters should a wrinkle start to form.

1. Place the (now wet) decal down, using the masking tape at the top as a hinge, lightly smooth with your fingers, making sure there are no wrinkles.

1. Working from the center, gently the vinyl lettering to the surface.

1. Lightly spray over the entire decal and again, this time with more pressure.

1. You can now remove the masking tape and repeat step 5, working from the center to the edges.

1. Wait about a minute or so to allow the to dry a little and slowly remove the application tape, peeling it parallel with the surface. Watch for edges or small letters lifting – if they do, press them back down with the application tape and again.

1. With a lint free cloth, gently wipe the surface to clear up any excess .

1. It’s common for there to be some small bubbles in the finished product, after several weeks these will leave by themselves. Any large bubbles can be punctured using a needle in the center and gently worked with your finger (from the outside towards the center).