Below, we'll take a look at how to apply decal sticker. This is not a difficult process and certainly nothing to be concerned about. Just follow the basic steps and you'll have your decal sticker applied in no time.
Application of Decal Stickers
Here I'll go through the process for the application of decal stickers. There are a few simple things to keep in mind prior to application to make sure that your surface is suitable and that your vinyl sticker applies well and stands the test of time.
How is a Decal Sticker Layered?
Your decal sticker will be supplied in 3 layers:
- The Clear Application Tape
- The Decal Sticker
- The Backing Paper
Steps To Apply Your Decal Sticker
Firstly, ensure the surface you are applying the decal sticker to is clean and dry. Remove any dirt or dust from the surface. Failure to prepare the surface may mean that the Vinyl material will not adhere to the surface or come away from the surface after a short amount of time. We also recommend that a Wax and Grease remover is used to remove any further contaminants from the surface. Use a new microfibre cloth to ensure that small fibres don't contaminate the surface.
Use a squeegee (or something similar like a credit card) to apply medium pressure on the Application Tape over all areas of the decal sticker.
By pulling back the Application Tape, remove the Vinyl from the Backing. If any part does not adhere to the Tape, gently replace the tape and squeegee the area again.
Once all parts of the Vinyl are on the Application Tape, apply to the clean surface. Applying from one side to the other will reduce air bubbles. Squeegee or rub over the areas of the vinyl to ensure all parts adhere to the surface.
Carefully peel back the application tape, pulling down at a 45 degree angle. The decal sticker should adhere to the surface. If the decal remains adhered to the application tape, replace the decal back on the surface and squeegee the edges of the decal again. Repeat if necessary.
The Decal Sticker is Still Not Coming Away from the Backing?
Here's a tip to fix this issue:
- If your decal sticker is still not coming away from with backing with the application tape, it may have something to do with the ambient temperature! That's right, vinyl and application tape both react differently in cold and hot weather. If it's a cold day, it might be especially hard for the application tape to stick to the vinyl. The trick is to apply heat over the surface of the decal sticker. To apply heat you can use a hair dryer, put it in front of a heater for a minute or two, or you can leave it in the sun, again for a few minutes. This application of heat will 'activate' the application tape and should make it easier for the vinyl to come away from the backing paper.
IMPORTANT NOTE: Failure to follow the instructions properly will mean that we are unable to help you if application fails.
Removing Old Decal Stickers
Removing old decal stickers from a surface by either using a razor blade, a hair-dryer or heat gun. Obviously, if using a razor blade or other sharp object, please be very careful.
Use the hair-dryer/heat gun to heat small areas of the vinyl for no more than 30 seconds. Use the razor blade carefully to begin lifting the vinyl off. You will eventually be able to pull away the vinyl sticker with your fingers. Take your time and if the vinyl becomes difficult to remove, stop and re-heat the area again.
There may be some residue left on the surface but you can use rubbing alcohol or a window-cleaner (like Windex) to remove this easily.