How to Apply Vinyl Decals

The Answers You Need

What is the best method to apply my vinyl decal?

Poke & Hope Method

The first method is the easiest, least accurate method and there will only one chance to get the position correct. Slowly peel the backing away from the application tape/vinyl sandwich and starting at one end, slowly press in place. Work your way from one end to the other. Go over the area with a credit card or other stiff plastic to further press the vinyl in place. Then SLOWLY peel the transfer tape from one end. For best results, peel the tape at a low angle (close to the surface) toward the remaining tape and graphic. If the tape is pulled up at 90° to the surface, the vinyl might come with it. If any vinyl tries to lift, simply press it back down with the transfer tape and try peeling again.

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Hinge Method

This method is a little more involved, but perfect alignment is guaranteed. (The soap & water spraying from the Slip-N-Slide may also be used here) Position the entire vinyl sandwich (application tape, vinyl graphic and backing paper) and hold in position with a small amount of masking tape. Step back, look, and/or measure to check alignment. Next overlap masking tape to the lower edge of the sandwich onto the surface you are applying to. This creates a hinge that will allow perfect alignment. Hinge the sandwich down so that the backing is exposed. Slowly peel the backing away from the application tape/vinyl sandwich, slowly hinge back into position, and press in place starting at the lower edge and working back and forth as you move up the decal. Go over the area with a credit card or other stiff plastic to further press the vinyl in place. Then slowly peel the transfer tape from one end. For best results, peel the tape at a low angle (Back onto itself) toward the remaining tape and graphic. If the tape is pulled up at 90° to the surface, the vinyl might come with it. If any vinyl tries to lift, simply press it back down with the transfer tape and try peeling again.

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Slip -N- Slide Method

The third method is messier, but the graphic can be re-positioned if necessary. (The hinge method from above can also be used here) Liberally spray the surface that the vinyl is being applied to with some water containing a small amount of dish washing liquid (2-3 drops of soap per quart). Slowly peel the transfer tape/vinyl sandwich away from the vinyl backing and position on sprayed surface. Since the area has been heavily sprayed, the graphic can be moved and repositioned. Once it is in the correct location, squeegee the water out from the vinyl/tape sandwich with a credit card or other stiff plastic. Smaller drops of water left under the vinyl will eventually evaporate. Allow the sandwich to remain for 10-15 minutes before peeling the transfer tape.