Curved Vinyl Decal Application

I still remember the first time i tried to apply vinyl to a mug.

Curved vinyl decal application.

Wanting some tips on how to apply vinyl to a curved surface. This type of decal is a little uncommon and should not be confused with water slide decals or vinyl self adhesive decals. Use the edge of the squeegee to push the vinyl out 1 8 of an inch at a time using an arching motion sort of like a windshield wiper keeping the graphic very taut. Now you have one side completely done.

Applying vinyl to a surface with curved aspects can be tricky. Heat curved vinyl stickers with a blow dryer to make them stick. Wet self adhesive decals. I generally recommend straight decals if for a top front windshield of vehicle.

Turn a hairdryer or heat gun to a low setting and run the device several inches or centimeters above the surface of the sticker. Don t be discouraged if your sticker isn t adhering properly to a curved edge or surface like a car bumper. I hadn t realized how different it was to apply vinyl to a flat surface and the result was a bit of a wonky flop. To start on the other side remove.

This instructable will use a skateboard deck as the example surface but the technique can be used for a variety of applications. Apply transfer tape to the vinyl. Starting from one side of the design use your fingers to apply the tape or paper to the vinyl and its backing a little bit at a time. Cut a strip of transfer tape or contact paper so it is the same size as the vinyl backing.

Using a few simple tools and techniques can make this a much easier process. A curved arched decal is not always best. Apply the vinyl decal. Then apply heat with a heat gun or hairdryer if necessary heat causes the vinyl to soften which allows for even more play.

Wet self adhesive decals have adhesive on the rear of the decal which when wet with water allows the decal to be moved into the correct position before carefully wiping away any access water.