Here is a guide to applying a Vinyl Sticker using a dry method of application. This Tutorial I have written will show you the Hinge Technique of application.

Please feel free to comment or PM if you have any questions regarding Vinyl Stickers or Graphics.

Tools Required:
Squeegee, Masking Tape, Pencil or Pen, lint-free cloth, cleaner, measuring tape or ruler


Understanding The Vinyl Sticker

This sticker is in three parts:
1. The top layer is called the Application Tape
2. The middle layer is the final product.
3. The bottom layer is called the backing or Release paper

Preparation:

If your sticker or graphic arrives in a mailing tube, it is recommended that you unroll the Sticker and squeegee the application tape side and let it lie flat, face down for at least an hour before applying.


Thoroughly clean the surface with a wax free cleaner(check if using car wash) or use a few drops of grease-cutting liquid detergent in water(do not use a petroleum base cleaner). Rinse clean with fresh water then dry with a lint-free cloth.


Wiping the surface with alcohol will also help remove any contamination and enhance the adhesion process.

The surface you are applying the sticker to, must be clean, dry & free of any dust or residue. Ideally, the surface and air temperature should be 10ºc or more. Use a hairdryer to achieve the surface temperature. If extremely hot, move to a shaded area. Do not apply stickers to a hot surface, they will not only get air bubles but will be difficult to apply.
Wind is also an enemy.


After preparing surface, check that the sticker fits in place. If necessary, cut of any excess application and backing paper that may get in the way. (I cut around the window wiper arm)

Measuring the Position:

Measure the width of the sticker and gently draw a centre mark on the application tape.

Measure the vehicle and mark the center (eg window) using a piece of masking tape with a line drawn on it. I used the boot lock to find the center.


Use masking tape to hold the sticker in position while you measure the hight. Check an even point on the sticker and measure to check that both ends of the sticker level. I used the bottom of the website text to check that the measurement from the rear window to the “www” and from the rear window to the “com” is the same.

Hing Application:

Secure one side of the sticker using masking tape. I use two long strips of tape. This will act as a hinge.


Use a piece of masking tape on the other side of the sticker to mark a point to line up with.


You should have something like this. The center point is marked, one side is taped down and the other is marked. This is you final chance to check your measurements.


Squeegee the sticker on last time to make sure the application tape is stuck to the vinyl. Then lift one side of the sticker and pull it back 180degrees (I have the “www” end wraped around the tailight and onto the side panel). Carefully begin removing the backing paper starting at the hinge (”.com” end) Pull back on itself 180 degrees.


Check to make sure the vinyl is sticking to the application tape. Sometimes bits may not stick and you will have to lay the backing paper back and try lifting it again. Squeegeeing can help. Try curling the paper back on itself.


Once the backing paper is removed.
Hinge the sticker back into position lining it up with your marker. Do not let the sticker touch the surface just yet. Hold it off slightly while you squeege from the hinge end.


Lightly squeegee from the centre working your way outwards until you get to the other end. Then go over gain using more pressure.


Remove all masking tape and resqueegee on last time.


Remove the application tape by starting in a corner and pulling back on itself (180 degrees). Do not
rush. Make sure the vinyl is sticking properly and not lifting.


Any Air bubbles will usually disappear after a few weeks, if not, you use a pin to puncture the vinyl and squeeze the air by pushing down with your thumb. Avoid wetting or washing the sticker for 48 hours to allow the adheasive to bond.

I hope you find this Tutorial useful, please let me know as I can write more tutorials if you are interested. Please comment or PM me if you have any questions about Vinyl Stickers and Graphics.