Our decals come in three layers. The bottom layer consists of paper. The middle layer contains the decorative vinyl sticker. The top layer is called the
applicator. The upper side of the paper layer is slick enough so that the
vinyl decal can be released to the top layer, (the applicator). Please read
and understand all the instructions before starting.1. If the decal has been rolled for posting, it helps if kept overnight in a
warm room and flattened by using books etc. If we have folded it, we will have done so where it will not affect the vinyl. Just lay the decal out and flatten the creases with your finger before starting. Do not try to apply the decal to
a very cold surface. Be sure that the area for the sticker is clean and dry. Now is
the time to plan for your EXACT placement of your new sticker.
2. Carefully peel the sticker from the paper so that only the decal and the
applicator remain. Sometimes this takes a bit of coaxing, but most of the time
the decal will readily release from the paper to the applicator. Problems may
arise in humid conditions. Be patient, don'thurry. It will work. You may want
to help coax the vinyl from the paper with the tip of a pin.
3. Carefully place the decal on the exact location that you desire. Concise
planning ahead is advised.
4. Once the decal touches the surface, DO NOT TRY TO RELOCATE. The sticker's
adhesive is very strong. If you attempt to move after it touches the surface you
may damage the sticker as the vinyl will stretch and distort before the
adhesive will give way. 5. After placing the decal to the surface, rub it home starting from the
center, working your way to the edges. Peel off the top layer, the applicator,
and enjoy your new decal.
6. The larger the decal the more chance you have of trapping air bubbles
between the sticker and the surface. If you trap such an air bubble, take a pin
and stab a tiny hole in the bubble and work the air out the pin hole. You'll
never see the pinhole.
7. Take greater care with thin areas such as the tips on flames. Make sure these
are firmly fixed, otherwise they will loosen when you clean the vehicle.
Wet Application
This method can be used on most applications, but requires more care and skill and is optional. I use it where there are large solid areas of vinyl.
Mix a gallon or so of water with a couple of drops of dishwashing liquid. Use a spray bottle
and wet the area where the decal is to be applied.
Trim away the transfer tape so that the tape is about - within 1/2"- of the edge of your
Decal. Remove the backing paper the same as the Dry Method instructions and
place the Decal, still attached to the transfer tape, to the wetted surface.
The decal can then be gently moved and repositioned correctly. Your Decal will
slide on the thin film of solution trapped between the vinyl decal and the surface.
When the decal is in the final location, use a small squeegee or credit card to
squeeze the water and detergent solution out from under the decal.
The transfer tape will protect the decal during this process.
CAUTION
Be sure to squeegee as much solution as possible from under the decal.
Take your time, because if not enough solution is removed from under the decal,
the Decal will not adhere to the surface enough to allow the easy removal of the
transfer tape. Although a squeegee is the recommended tool, the water can also be
removed by using your fingers or a soft cloth. When through with the squeegee, the
transfer tape can be carefully removed. Work the decal with your fingers, and a soft, absorbent cloth around the edges and corners to remove any remaining solution. Warm weather is best for this application. Do not drive at speed until the decal has completely adhered. Temperature is the main factor here. Cold retards the process. Do not apply to newly painted surfaces until the paint has fully cured.
This can take anything from one week to six weeks.
Maintenance
In colder climates, decals on windows of vehicles can be damaged by scraping
off frost or ice from the windows. Mild window cleaner may be used to clean the
windows without damage to the decal.
On painted surfaces of vehicles, care must be taken when waxing. Wax will build up
around the edges of the decal, and will need to be removed. Use a soft cloth, and take your time, and be gentle. DON'T DO. A brush, for example will force the wax underneath the edge of the decal, and the decal will begin to peel. Your Decal will not be damaged by normal use of car wash products, or water. The decals will give you many years of enjoyment if given proper care.
Removal
On glass surfaces, with temperatures between 70 and 80 degrees Farenheit,
a razor blade scraper can be used. Decals can be removed from painted surfaces
by using a hair dryer to warm the decal to the point to where it peels off easily.
The application of this vinyl decal requires a degree of dexterity, and concentration.
If you feel you cannot apply this decal yourself, any auto detailer, or body shop can apply it for you. Cars-n-Stripes cannot be responsible for replacing decals that have been damaged during application.
If you have a digital camera or scanner, we are always pleased to receive photos
of your decal on your vehicle, for promotional purposes.
Thank you for purchasing your new sticker from us.
John Donlan |