6 Steps to Apply Vinyl Decals Like a Pro

Travis Coupland
Apr 14, 2024
4 min read

Updated: Mar 21

If you've opted to install your vinyl decals yourself, this guide will take you through the process using the dry "Hinge" method. If any of this looks like too much to handle, we do offer installation services at Coupland Signs. But if you take it step by step, you got this!

NOTE: Some surfaces aren't ideal for vinyl graphics. A general rule is, if it's flat and shiny, it's OK (Glass, Vehicle Paint, smooth plastics). Avoid anything with a texture. Contact us if you're unsure.

Vinyl Graphic Exploded View — Note: Your Vinyl Graphic is Comprised of 3 Layers

Recommended Tools

Water/Rubbing Alcohol
Lint Free Cloth
Tape Measure
Masking Tape
Plastic Squeegee

Let's Do It

1. Clean the Surface - Vinyl will not stick to oily, greasy or waxy surfaces - so avoid common cleaning products as they can contain those things! Wipe away any dirt or debris and clean the area with water or rubbing alcohol only.

2. Position the Graphic - After your surface is clean and completely dry, tape the graphic in place. To ensure your decal is level, measure using an element within the graphic as a guide. For example, the bottom of a line of text.

3. Tape the "Hinge" - Once the graphic is positioned, apply a strip of masking tape across the top as shown. The Tape will act as a hinge from this point on.

It’s crucial that the graphic is positioned correctly before continuing.

4. Remove the Backing - Using the tape as a hinge, flip the decal upward and remove the backing paper. After the backing is removed, the graphic will become flimsy. Take care to keep it from folding in on itself while you hold it up.

5. Apply the Graphic - Slowly lower the graphic into place while making overlapping linear passes with a squeegee (or an old credit card). Work evenly, to the edge of the graphic with firm pressure.

6. Remove Transfer Tape - After the entire graphic has been firmly applied, carefully peel away the transfer paper. If any part of the graphic wants to peel up with the transfer paper, push it back down and apply pressure until it properly adheres to the surface.

Done

After you have finished, you may encounter small bubbles in your graphic. Don't be alarmed. Small bubbles will disappear with regular sun exposure. You can attempt to work them out using a squeegee, but take care to not scratch the graphic. Large bubbles can be popped using a pin.

When performing this dry method properly, it is safe to wash your vehicle/surface immediately if desired. But NEVER POWER WASH your graphic directly.

Troubleshooting

Masking tape won't stick to the surface

Cause: Surface contaminant such as oil, grease, or wax.

Solution: It will need to be removed before continuing. Alcohol will usually do the trick, but in some cases, heavy duty chemicals may need to be involved. Contact us if your tape just won't stick.

Cause: Inappropriate surface for vinyl decals.

Solution: You may need higher strength tape, and in this case, extra sticky decals. We offer a "Super sticky" option. Contact us with details about your surface.

The backing paper won't come off in some areas

Cause: The backing paper is wet

Solution: Even a drop of water can cause this issue. You'll need to let it dry before easily removing the backing paper.

Cause: Reason Unclear

Solution: Simply push the backing paper back into place and try again.

The graphic won't stay down when I peel off the transfer paper

Cause: Surface contaminant such as oil, grease, or wax.

Solution: Unfortunately, it's too late to remove the contaminant. Use your squeegee to go over the graphic again with firm pressure. Wait about 30 minutes before trying to remove the transfer paper again.

Cause: Inappropriate surface for vinyl decals.

Solution: You may need higher strength decals. We offer a "Super sticky" option. Contact us with details about your surface.

Cause: Damp, or overly humid space.

Solution: Let the entire area dry thoroughly naturally, or by the gentle use of a heat gun.

Unsightly wrinkles or folds in the graphic

Cause: Improper application technique

Solution: They may be there to stay. In some cases, parts of the graphic can be lifted up, and then flattened properly. This is a tricky operation. Contact us if you run into this issue.

Severe Air Bubbles

Cause: Improper application technique.

Solution: Small bubbles usually go away on their own with regular exposure to sunlight. Larger bubbles can be popped with a needle or other sharp object.

If there are an excessive amount of bubbles, in some cases, parts of the graphic can be lifted up, and then flattened properly. This is a tricky operation. Contact us if you run into this issue.