STORAGE

Store decals flat, away from light, intense heat/cold, oil or dust, until required.

PREPARATION

Ensure work area is clean as possible, and free of dust, oil and dirt. If there are decals on the existing surface, remove by using gentle heat (i.e. hairdryer) to soften the adhesive under the vinyl. A gentle application of heat is sufficient, and the old decal can be reheated when the adhesive starts to cool off again.

Once decals are removed, clean the surface to remove residue - alcohol-based cleaners will remove any sticky adhesive left behind.

Even if the surface looks clean, a rinse with soapy water will remove any traces of grease and dust. Dry the surface before starting application.

There are three parts to the decal - the vinyl decal itself, the backing paper the sticky side is attached to, and a paper applicating tape over the top that is peeled off after the decal is stuck to the surface (large or very small decals may not have applicating tape, they are easier to stick on without it - see below for more details).

APPLICATION TIPS

Pull backing paper away from the decal, leaving the decal stuck to the application tape. It is easier to pull the paper sheet off with the decal facing down:

 

If the vinyl is still sticking to the paper, apply pressure to the back of the paper with a squeegee or thumb. Pull the paper sheet back on itself, rather than upwards and away from the tape

 

 

Slowly stick the first 1/4" of the decal to the surface of the panel, pressing down on the point where decal makes contact with the surface. Slowly apply approx. 1/4" of decal at a time. Keep the remaining decal at the angle shown in the diagram - don't pull the tape 'up and away'. Be careful not to loosen your hold on the remaining decal and make sure it does not touch the surface until you are ready to press it down.

LARGER DECALS

If the decal is quite large or you want to ensure the decal is going to be placed correctly, you can use a low-tack tape to keep it in place. This also means you can apply the decal in two halves. DO NOT REMOVE THE BACKING PAPER if you wish to use this technique!

1. Hold the whole sheet in place with low-tack tape (stick tape as close to the centre as possible, and over the least amount of vinyl). It is easier to position the decal exactly where you need it using this method - just keep re-adjusting before you attempt to stick it to the surface!

 

 

2. Carefully peel away one half of the decal/applicating tape from the paper backing sheet. Clip away the paper sheet.

 

3. Slowly press down the decal as shown above, moving from the middle of the decal outwards, either with your hand or a plastic squeegee. Keep the unapplied part of decal taut to avoid sagging.

 

 

4. When one side is complete, remove low-tack tape and repeat steps 2-3.

 

5. Leave for about 15 minutes before peeling away the application tape - this gives the decal more time to attach itself to the surface. Slowly pull the application tape back on itself rather than up and away from the decal.

You can also use this technique on larger pieces of vinyl such as flashes or shapes, which are easier to apply when unapplicated - just affix low-tack tape across the vinyl, peel from the backing and follow steps 3 - 5. Be careful not to touch the sticky side of the decal too much but hold the edge gently. You can combine this technique with the 'wet' method.

 

WET METHOD

The decal is applied to a damp surface allowing it to be moved around or removed easily if an error occurs. This is more suitable for applying unapplicated decals. Add a few drops of dish washing liquid to a bowl of lukewarm water, and damp the surface of the panel/window.

Ensure that only a small amount of water is used, or use a fine mist with a spray bottle if possible, as too much water can lead to water bubbles! Once applied, leave the decal to dry.

 

AFTER APPLICATION

Occasionally small bubbles may be visible after applying, even if you have taken extra care. Don't panic! These bubbles will usually disappear after about 24 hours. If bubbles are still visible after a few days, remove them by pricking with a pin and easing the air out.

 

ABOUT CLEAR COATING

If you are applying decals to newly painted surfaces such as motorcycle panels, please make sure that the paint is COMPLETELY DRY before starting. Paint needs time for vapours to be expelled ('gassing') - if decals are applied before this is complete they can trap vapour. When clear coat is applied, the decals may blister or bubble where vapour is trapped.

Please refer to your paint manufacturer's recommendations for drying times - it may take 72 hours or more for the paint to complete gassing. It is also important that the decals are properly applied and fully bonded before clear coating to prevent lacquer creeping through any gaps.

Decals should be clear coated to protect them from gasoline (i.e. gas tank decals) - we recommend two-pack for all our graphics as this has been tested on all substrates/foils under spray shop conditions.

Do not use alcohol/ spirit-based products, non-automotive polish/abrasive cleaners on the decals as it may cause damage. Washing with a little lukewarm soapy water is adequate to remove dust and grease.

Please take extra care if you intend to clear coat chrome foils - ensure that the vinyl is completely fixed before attempting to spray. Never bake, or expose the decals to heat as this can cause blistering.

 

AIR BRUSH STENCILS

This specialty vinyl is specially designed for stencilling paint. After application it should remain on the panel for no more than 4 hours, otherwise the adhesive may start to stick (it is harmless, but this will avoid having to clean the panel!) Do not subject the stencil vinyl to heat (i.e. baking) or substances with a very high solvent content.