How to Make Car Decals?

If you’re a company owner, properly made car decals can help you achieve your business goals. Apart from that, unique projects are a great way to make your vehicle stand out from the crowd and to attract the attention of passers-by. How to make a decal for your car, and what are the benefits of such custom solutions? Let’s dive into details, shall we?
Car decals - what are they, and why should you make them?
Car decals are types of stickers made of more durable materials. Thanks to it, they can be applied in various conditions and don’t get damaged so easily when exposed to rain, intense sun, wind or changing temperatures. Car decals are an effective way to advertise your business, express important messages or attract the attention of people who come across your vehicle. Apart from that, they’re renowned for:
- Durability - decals are typically made of polyester or vinyl, which makes them more resistant. Consequently, they can be applied outdoors and are a guarantee that you won’t need to invest in new stickers after a month or two.
- Low costs - car decals are extremely cost-efficient when we take into account their price and durability. If you make them properly, they should suffice for a few seasons. Of course, to achieve the best possible results, it’s worth commissioning the task to specialist companies that have access to technologically advanced solutions and equipment.
- Availability - you can create car decals in any size, shape and color you want. If you’re looking for approachable solutions, you’re in the right place!
How to make car decals?
If you’re wondering how to make a decal for a car, we’ll be more than happy to help you. Even if you don’t have professional equipment at your disposal, you can still make your own car decals at home. Prepare:
- your project,
- adhesive-backed vinyl in a chosen shade,
- working space,
- Scotch tape,
- knife,
- scissors,
- tweezers,
- transfer tape.
Once all these items are ready, move on to the first step.
1. Prepare your design
If you don’t have your project ready, benefit from available software like Canva or Photoshop to prepare an image, quote or graphic you want to place on your car decal. Remember to choose the most optimal size that won’t be too big, but at the same time will be easily noticed by passers-by.
2. Cut the vinyl out
Now, it’s time to take the vinyl you prepared earlier and cut out a piece that is bigger than your design. Once this is ready, you may proceed and stick your template to the vinyl. For this purpose, you can use the adhesive tape.
3. Cut your car decal out
It’s time to cut your car decal out. This process may be more or less complex, depending on the project. Remember to be meticulous as this step has a very important impact on the final effect.
4. Use the transfer tape
Finally, it’s the stage where the transfer tape comes in handy. Start taping one end of your decal and continue till you tape the entire design. With your fingers, check if there are any bubbles or creases. Then, trim the decal with scissors and voilà , it’s ready to be applied on a car!
Don’t forget to clean the surface before you place the decal on it. Once your sticker is well-sat, take the backing off and firmly press the decal to minimize air bubbles.

The benefits of car decals
Apart from being funny and attractive accessories that attract the attention, custom car decals are a great solution if you want to:
- Promote your company - imagine that you stand in a traffic jam and there is a vehicle in front of you with an intriguing decal. You’re probably going to google the company’s name placed on that sticker, aren’t you?
- Adorn your car - if you have an artistic soul, and you’re looking for an effective and efficient way to decorate your car, decals are a perfect option for you. This way, you can cheaply personalize your vehicle.
- Show off your values or personality - if you’re a person who wants to be perceived in a specific way, and you wish to inform everyone around you about your values, create custom decals. They’re ideal to e.g. inform other drivers that you have a pet or a child in the car.
How to make car decal stickers? The takeaway
Although it’s possible to make custom car decals on one’s own, choosing services offered by professional companies is the best way to achieve satisfactory and durable designs. Contact us to get a free quote and see for yourself that custom projects don’t have to cost an arm and a leg.
Do you want to learn how to design motorcycle decals? Check out our entry!