How to apply vinyl lettering
Materials Needed
- Vinyl sticker(s) provided by our good selves. It will be provided in 3 parts (transfer tape, the actual vinyl and backing paper).
- Squeegee or credit card
- Clean cloth or paper towel
- Masking tape (for larger stickers)
- Needle or pin (for air bubbles)
- Scissors (if trimming is needed)
Steps to Apply Vinyl Stickers
Your vinyl will be provided in three parts
Prepare the Surface
Clean the surface where you will apply the sticker using soap and water. This will remove any dirt, oil, or residue that might prevent the sticker from adhering properly. Dry the surface completely with a clean cloth or paper towel.
Position the Sticker
Position the sticker on the surface. You can use a piece of masking tape to hold the sticker in place if needed.If the sticker is large, it can be helpful to create a hinge by applying masking tape along one edge, allowing you to lift and position the sticker accurately.
Remove the backing paper
Carefully peel the backing paper from the vinyl sticker. Avoid touching the adhesive side too much.
Apply the Sticker
Starting from one side, use a squeegee or a credit card to slowly press the sticker onto the surface. Work your way to the opposite side, applying even pressure.
Smooth out the sticker to avoid air bubbles and wrinkles. Move the squeegee in overlapping strokes to ensure full adhesion.
Remove the Transfer Tape
Once the sticker is fully adhered, slowly peel off the transfer tape. Pull it back at a sharp angle, keeping it close to the surface as you peel.
If any part of the sticker lifts with the transfer tape, press it back down with the squeegee and try peeling the tape again.
Final Touches
Check for any air bubbles under the sticker. For small bubbles, you can often push them out to the edge using the squeegee or your fingers.
For larger bubbles, use a needle or pin to poke a tiny hole in the bubble and then smooth it out with the squeegee.
Allow the Sticker to Set:
Give the sticker some time to fully adhere to the surface. This can take a few hours to a couple of days, depending on the environment and the type of surface.
By following these steps, you should be able to apply vinyl stickers neatly and securely to various surfaces.
Tips
- Temperature: Apply the sticker in a moderate temperature. Extremely cold or hot conditions can affect the adhesive. Patience: Take your time during each step to ensure the best results.
- Cleaning: Be careful when cleaning over the graphic in future