Applying Vinyl Graphics & Decals

Application Instructions

LOUDPRINT Vinyl Graphics and Decals come with strong adhesive backings making them good options for outdoor use, sports equipment design, signage, motor vehicle graphics and more. Applying them can be as easy as peel-and-stick or if your graphic includes a layer of transfer tape, stick-burnish-and-peel. They can be applied with both dry and wet application techniques.

Applying Decals to hard surfaces

First, you'll need a lint-free towel (or lint-free paper towels), isopropyl alcohol, an application/card squeegee (or a firm credit card). If your decal does not have an application tape layer, wrap a piece of felt/microfiber/cloth around the squeegee to protect the decal from being scratched. If you're using the wet method, you will need application fluid* in a spray bottle.

Determine where you want to apply your decal. Prepare the surface. If applying to a wall, knock off any rough debris or loose bits by running a plastic spackle knife over it. If applying the decal to glass, clean the glass using ammonia-free glass cleaner. Using a lint-free towel, wipe the surface with a small amount of isopropyl alcohol and allow it to dry.

*DIY APPLICATION FLUID

Add 7.5oz water with and 2 drops of blue colored liquid dish soap (e.g. Dawn) or 2-3drops of baby shampoo (Baby "No Tears" works great) in a spray bottle. Shake to combine.

Applying Smaller Graphics & Decals Without Application Tape

If you're comfortable that you can accurately apply the decal to the location you want, applying your decal is as easy as peel-and-stick. First, peel off the back and when placing it where you want, use your finger to press down on the center of the decal. Then, working from the center outward, continue to apply the decal using firm, outward strokes while making sure you do not trap air bubbles underneath.

Applying Larger Graphics & Decals Without Application Tape

Wrap a card squeegee/applicator or credit card with a piece of felt or cloth to protect the surface of the decal from scratches. Peel down 1/2” of the backing from the top of the decal. Place the decal where you want it, pressing down firmly on the exposed adhesive so it sticks. Squeegee from the center outward to remove air bubbles and ensure solid contact is made. Slowly remove more of the backing, continuing to use the squeegee to smooth down the decal from the center out. Continue this until the decal is applied.

USING APPLICATION TAPE + THE WET METHOD

If your graphic has a layer of application tape on top, use the edge of a card squeegee or credit card to firmly rub down the top of the application tape, pressing the decal onto it. This also helps smooth out the vinyl.

Flip the decal over and carefully remove the backing, being sure not to let the decal stick to anything- including itself. Lightly mist both the back of the decal AND the surface it will be applied to with DIY Application Fluid* (above). Place the decal on the surface, adhesive side down. The slipperiness of the DIY Application Fluid will allow you to align, adjust or reposition your graphic. Make sure to smooth out folds and air bubbles. Once satisfied with the placement, use a squeegee to push the application liquid out from below the decal by placing it on the center of the decal and burnishing outward to the edge. Repeat this process from center outward until you have covered the entire graphic and the fluid is removed.

REMOVING THE APPLICATION TAPE

Starting at one corner or edge, carefully peel off the application tape. If the decal begins to pull up, put the tape and decal back down and re-burnish it firmly using the card squeegee. Gently try to remove the transfer tape again. (Sometimes this step must be repeated several times.) After the application tape has been removed, pat the decal and surface dry with a towel. The rest of the liquid below the decal will evaporate and the graphic will be fully adhered to the surface.