Vinyl Graphics and Decals -

Theres a right way, and an easy way to apply your decal or graphics. You decide which works best for you, then thats the right way.

Preparing the surface for your decal:

The surface area that the vinyl goes on must be clean and free of grease, dust, or any contaminates. A 60/40 mixture of vinegar and water or soap and water works well to clean the surface; glass cleaners may not allow vinyl to adhere properly. Before applying the decal, wipe the area with isopropyl alcohol* and wipe it dry with a clean cloth. If any solvent residue is left on the surface gas bubbles may appear. Do not apply vinyl decals or Graphics to a fresh paint. Freshly panted surfaces must be completely cured then left to stand for 3 weeks before adhering your decals or graphics.

Now, follow one of the methods below to apply your vinyl graphic.

(Our Preferred Method)

HINGE METHOD:

This method is a little more involved, but perfect alignment is guaranteed. Temperature: Must be above 46F, we prefer 60F. Make sure there is no major drop in temperature for the first 24 hours. Position the entire vinyl package (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 lap masking tape from upper to lower edge of the package onto the surface you are applying to. This creates a hinge that will allow perfect alignment. Hinge the package down so that the backing is exposed. Slowly peel the backing away from the application tape/vinyl package, 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 using a plastic squeegee across the film in overlapping sweeps as you move across the decal to further press the vinyl in place. Do the same for the other side. Once the decal is on, slowly start to 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.

SLIP-N-SLIDE METHOD:

This method is messier, but the graphic can be re-positioned if necessary. Temperature must be above 64. Liberally spray the surface that the vinyl is being applied to with some water containing a very small amount of dish washing liquid (2-3 drops of soap per quart). Slowly peel the transfer tape/vinyl package 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 package with a plastic squeegee, credit card or other stiff plastic. Go over the area across the film in overlapping sweeps as you move across the decal to further press the vinyl in place. Smaller drops of water left under the vinyl will eventually evaporate. Allow the package to remain until completely dry before peeling the transfer tape. Again peel the tape at a low angle, press any stubborn vinyl back in place and re-peel.

*Isopropyl alcohol is recommended as the cleaning agent as other agents may, under certain conditions, attack the paint or reduce the adhesive strength of the film.

Author: Denise Webb Denise is owner of Webbs Graphics as well as Web Site Creator. She loves the creative process of working with as well as all aspects of web creation. She is always looking for ways to improve the web site

You can contact Denise at: webbsgraphics@frontiernet.net

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Denise_Webb

If youre interested in mastering this craft, here are some inputs from vehicle wrap experts on how to do the job right.

Expert tips to installing vehicle wraps:

Vehicle wrap tip #1:

Tape the design to the exterior first before removing the backing of the film. This will ensure that everything is in position with the template. According to an expert, taping the design will allow you to check what the printer came up with. See to it that everything is where it should be.

Vehicle wrap tip #2:

Avoid making additional cuts or pointless marks in your vinyl graphics. To achieve this, remove mirrors and wiper blades and other similar elements.

Vehicle wrap tip #3:

Wet applications make vehicle wrapping more difficult. Experts do not recommend this, as it will result in the breakage of the adhesive. You may not see the effects right away, but it could be damaged before it reaches the life-span recommended. Plus, removal of the vinyl is more convenient if you do a dry installation.

Experts tools for installing vehicle wraps: What you need to make the process of installing your wrap smoother and more convenient.

Vehicle wrap tool #1:

Squeegees are necessary for vehicle wrapping. Experts even use two different ones: a felt squeegee for areas that are difficult to wrap, since this will make it possible for you not to scratch the vinyl; the standard squeegee (the hard one) for the rest of the area. A good squeegee is made of a flexible material. The purpose for this is to avoid the squeegee from getting scratched. Scratches on your squeegee will result in what would look like scratch marks on your window graphic.

Vehicle wrap tool #2:

Experts also suggest the use of an air release tool or pin. Some people make do with razor blades to burst bubbles. But this will just end up with your film getting a tear that would cause your vinyl to fall apart.

Using an air release tool allows you to preserve the strength of your film, as it will pop the bubble within its own boundary.

Vehicle wrap tool #3:

Finally, keep a heat gun handy. This will help stretch the film. The recommended kind is called overlaminates.

Syed Raheem is the publisher of next generation media news letter.

You can subscribe by visiting his web site at: truck wrap and receive updates related information about vehicle wrapping.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Syed_Raheem