Dry Vinyl Decal Application

Dry Vinyl Decal Application

Your vinyl decal consists of three important components, each serving a unique purpose to ensure a smooth application:

  1. Application Tape (Top Layer):
    The transparent or semi-transparent top layer is also known as the transfer tape. This layer holds the decal design in place and helps you position it correctly during application. It provides a firm grip on the design, ensuring each detail of the decal is transferred to the surface without distortion.
  2. Vinyl Decal (Middle Layer):
    This is the actual design you’ll apply to your surface. Made from high-quality vinyl, this layer is precision-cut to form your chosen image, text, or pattern. The vinyl is durable, weather-resistant, and designed to adhere securely to smooth, glossy, and non-porous surfaces. It’s perfect for vehicles, glass, mirrors, walls, or other flat surfaces.
  3. Backing Paper (Bottom Layer):
    The bottom layer is a waxy paper that protects the adhesive on the vinyl until you’re ready to apply it. This layer ensures the decal remains intact during storage and handling.
Dry Vinyl Decal Application

Determine exactly where you want to position the decal. Take time to plan carefully, as the decal cannot be repositioned once it adheres to the surface.

Dry Vinyl Decal Application

Clean and de-grease the surface where the decal will be applied. Isopropyl or denatured alcohol works best for this purpose. Avoid using products that contain ammonia, as they can weaken the adhesive.

Dry Vinyl Decal Application

The adhesive is very sticky, so extra care is needed to ensure the decal does not touch unintended surfaces or fold back on itself.

Place your vinyl decal face-down on a clean surface and rub the backing paper firmly with a squeegee or plastic card. This ensures all parts of the design stick to the transfer tape.

Dry Vinyl Decal Application

Carefully pull the backing paper away, starting from one corner, and pull it back on itself (not upwards).
If any part of your design lifts with the backing paper, press it back into place and rub over it again.

Dry Vinyl Decal Application

Once the backing paper is removed, lay your design stick-side-down onto your prepared surface.
Rub over the transfer tape gently at first, then rub more firmly. Your goal is to push air bubbles out to the edges, ensuring a smooth, flat finish.

Dry Vinyl Decal Application

When removing the application tape, pull it back slowly onto itself at a 180-degree angle.
If any part of the design sticks to the tape instead of the surface, lay it back down, rub it firmly with a squeegee, and try peeling the tape again. A sharp peeling angle works best when separating vinyl from the backing or transfer tape.

Dry Vinyl Decal Application

Congratulations! Your decal is now applied and should look awesome.