How to Apply Decals?

You have designed your dream decals, they’re ready, and it’s time to apply them. How to do it to ensure that they look attractively and will properly advertise your brand? Keep reading today’s entry to learn how to apply vinyl decals.

A few rules to start with

If you’re reading this article, you probably know that there are various types of vinyl decals, applied materials, and coatings. All these elements have a significant impact on the durability and intended applications of your stickers. Therefore, to achieve the best possible results, it’s worth following a few simple rules:

• the temperature at which you apply your decals should range between 50 °F (10 °C) and 90 °F (32.22 °C).
• always clean the surface before the decal is applied to remove dust, or grease.
• apply the decal gradually, start from one side and don’t try to install the entire decal at once because this will result in unaesthetic air bubbles.
• choose an application method (wet or dry) that is suitable for your decal type. Ask the manufacturer for relevant information.

How to apply decals? Dry installation

1. Wondering how to apply car decals? Start with cleaning the surface to remove any dirt, as it might have a negative impact on the durability of your decal.
2. Remove the backing (piece after piece).
3. Find the perfect location for your decal. At this stage, you may need someone else’s support to look at your sticker from a distance. Use a masking tape to properly position the decal and hold it in place.
4. It’s time for pressure. Apply it gradually, piece after piece. Be thorough to remove any air bubbles.
5. It’s almost ready. Now you can use a squeegee to get rid of any air bubbles and unwanted elements. When applying the squeegee, you may need some extra materials (e.g., the removed backing) to protect the decal against unwanted scratches.

How to apply decals? Wet installation

If your decals are intended for wet application, you’ll need to take slightly different steps:

1. Clean the surface to remove any grease, dirt, and dust that might prevent sticking.
2. Make application solution - add three drops of dish soap to a water gallon. Mix it thoroughly and transfer to a bottle with a spray mechanism.
3. Remove the backing. This time, you can do everything at once, without being afraid that it might damage the decal.
4. Now it’s time to spray the back of the decal and the surface with the prepared solution.
5. Find an ideal place for your decal and make sure that it meets your expectations.
6. Use pressure. Contrary to dry installation, now you should start in the middle of the decal. Be careful and remove the solution between the surface and the sticker (you’ll recognize that the solution is removed because the decal will begin to stick).
7. Use a squeegee to get rid of any air bubbles and refine your decal. At the end, you can benefit from a paper towel to completely dry the design.

Applying decals - the takeaway

Proper wet and dry installation of decals can be a complex task. Therefore, it’s important to prepare for it properly or benefit from professional support. Without a shadow of a doubt, it’s worth choosing quality vinyl decals, as they may significantly boost your brand image and recognition.

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