Curved Vinyl Decal Application

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.

Curved vinyl decal application.

Peel the adhesive backing from the tape or paper. Wanting some tips on how to apply vinyl to a curved surface. Wet self adhesive decals. 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.

This instructable will use a skateboard deck as the example surface but the technique can be used for a variety of applications. Then apply heat with a heat gun or hairdryer if necessary heat causes the vinyl to soften which allows for even more play. Apply the vinyl decal. Using a few simple tools and techniques can make this a much easier process.

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. I still remember the first time i tried to apply vinyl to a mug. Applying vinyl to a surface with curved aspects can be tricky. If you choose curve just remember the height is total height from highest point in the decal to the lowest.

Don t be discouraged if your sticker isn t adhering properly to a curved edge or surface like a car bumper. Cut a strip of transfer tape or contact paper so it is the same size as the vinyl backing. The decal size will be measured in total height not height of the letter. Heat curved vinyl stickers with a blow dryer to make them stick.

A curved arched decal is not always best. Now you have one side completely done. To start on the other side remove. 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.

This type of decal is a little uncommon and should not be confused with water slide decals or vinyl self adhesive decals.