Automotive decals, truck decal graphics, car window decals

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Applying Vinyl - Do It Yourself!

Applying vinyl is easy enough to do by yourself. The following tools are recommended when applying
vinyl decals or lettering.

Masking tape

Level

Squeegee

Application spray

Pin or exacto knife (optional)

Cleaning Procedures:
All surfaces are contaminated to some degree. To ensure good adhesion to any vehicle surface it is
critical that you follow these recommended procedures in decontaminating and preparing the
surface prior to any vinyl product installation.

1. Wash and rinse the area with liquid dish detergent and warm water. Then dry the surface with a
clean, lint-free towel or cloth.

2. Finish up the cleaning process by wiping down the entire area with Isopropyl Alcohol (rubbing
alcohol). To avoid recontamination during the final cleaning step, wipe the surface in just one
direction, using a clean, lint-free towel or cloth. You are now ready to apply the vinyl.

Temperature Recommendations:
Surface temperatures should be between 50 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit before attempting the
installation. As a general rule, if the surface is hot to the touch it's over 90 degrees Fahrenheit.
Adhesive becomes brittle when it gets too cold and gummy when it gets too hot. Applications
outside the recommended range of 50 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit reduce the adhesives' ability to
perform.

Application Procedures:
You can choose to apply vinyl in one of two ways; dry or wet. Applying vinyl dry does not allow for any
mistakes. Once the vinyl touches the surface, there is no removal without damage.

However, applying vinyl with application spray allows you the opportunity to remove and reposition
vinyl as needed for up to several minutes. For obvious reasons, this method is recommended for
both beginners and experts. To apply using the application spray, spray the surface thoroughly. Then
lay the vinyl on a flat surface and spray the adhesive side as you remove the backing. An extra set of
hands is a good idea. Then simply apply the vinyl to the surface.

Do not excessively stretch vinyl during the application. This is the main cause of end lift. Pull the vinyl
only as taut as necessary to keep a straight line. Because vinyl is a pressure-sensitive product, a
squeegee should be used for all installations. The purpose of using a squeegee is to remove the
excess fluid and or air from behind the vinyl. You should always start the squeegee from the middle
and either use a straight up or down motion. Allow the vinyl to set for 5 to 15 minutes.

(Pinstriping can be laid down initially using your thumb. However, after the application tape is
removed, a squeegee must be used on all cut ends including door breaks as well as the ends of the
stripe.)

When removing the application tape, always pull it slowly, back onto itself, at a 180-degree angle.
Bubbles should be punctured using a pin. Do not slit the vinyl to release the air. If the vinyl is slit it will
spread or gap. The cutting or trimming of any stripe or graphic should be done using a very sharp
knife and very little pressure.

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