How to Apply Vinyl Lettering
Vinyl lettering is the preferred type of lettering for many types of signs.
It is a suitable option for window lettering, vehicle lettering, boat lettering, as well as DIY products that need a professional appearance at an affordable price.
Here is some basic information about vinyl lettering and how to apply lettering to a surface.
Layers of Vinyl Letters Vinyl letters are made up of three layers.
The uppermost layer is a low tech application tape.
The purpose of this layer is to hold the graphics in place and provide protection to the face during application.
The bottom layer is the paper release liner.
This is a waxy layer that carries the vinyl.
The vinyl adhesive is exposed when this layer is removed.
The middle layer is the layer of the adhesive vinyl lettering that will attach itself to the surface on which it is applied after the installation is complete.
Tools for Installment Given below are some tools that you can use to apply the lettering.
Squeegee for evenly pressing the lettering onto the surface.
If you don't have a squeegee then try using a small flat object such as a credit card.
Non-abrasive cleaner such as Formula 409 or soap and water can be used to clean the area where the lettering is to be applied.
Masking tape for holding the vinyl lettering in place during application.
Level for ensuring that the graphics are properly placed on the surface.
How to Apply Lettering Apply the cleaner and wipe the surface, making sure that it's clean.
After cleaning the surface thoroughly, place your lettering on the surface with the help of a small piece of masking tape at each of its top ends.
After placing the graphic, use a level for making any adjustments to the position of the lettering to ensure that it's in the right position on the surface.
Once the lettering is in its position, you can apply it to the surface.
Create a hinge with the masking tape.
Apply the tape on the top side of the lettering, attaching half of the tape to the surface and half to the lettering.
After securing the lettering, use a scissor for cutting in between the letters to make the sections more manageable.
Raise the lettering from the surface so that you are seeing the bottom layer.
Taking one corner, carefully remove this layer at an angle of 180 degrees from the adhesive side of the vinyl, ensuring that the lettering separates from the bottom layer while staying away from the surface.
Now, carefully bring the lettering down onto the surface.
Begin from the top and center and squeegee firmly down, outwards from the center, using overlapping movements.
Make sure that the vinyl lettering has been firmly placed onto the surface.
Now it's time to remove the application tape.
Begin from the upper side and carefully remove the tape at an angle of 180 degrees.
If you see letters coming off with the tape, firmly squeegee that section again and then remove the tape.
It is a suitable option for window lettering, vehicle lettering, boat lettering, as well as DIY products that need a professional appearance at an affordable price.
Here is some basic information about vinyl lettering and how to apply lettering to a surface.
Layers of Vinyl Letters Vinyl letters are made up of three layers.
The uppermost layer is a low tech application tape.
The purpose of this layer is to hold the graphics in place and provide protection to the face during application.
The bottom layer is the paper release liner.
This is a waxy layer that carries the vinyl.
The vinyl adhesive is exposed when this layer is removed.
The middle layer is the layer of the adhesive vinyl lettering that will attach itself to the surface on which it is applied after the installation is complete.
Tools for Installment Given below are some tools that you can use to apply the lettering.
Squeegee for evenly pressing the lettering onto the surface.
If you don't have a squeegee then try using a small flat object such as a credit card.
Non-abrasive cleaner such as Formula 409 or soap and water can be used to clean the area where the lettering is to be applied.
Masking tape for holding the vinyl lettering in place during application.
Level for ensuring that the graphics are properly placed on the surface.
How to Apply Lettering Apply the cleaner and wipe the surface, making sure that it's clean.
After cleaning the surface thoroughly, place your lettering on the surface with the help of a small piece of masking tape at each of its top ends.
After placing the graphic, use a level for making any adjustments to the position of the lettering to ensure that it's in the right position on the surface.
Once the lettering is in its position, you can apply it to the surface.
Create a hinge with the masking tape.
Apply the tape on the top side of the lettering, attaching half of the tape to the surface and half to the lettering.
After securing the lettering, use a scissor for cutting in between the letters to make the sections more manageable.
Raise the lettering from the surface so that you are seeing the bottom layer.
Taking one corner, carefully remove this layer at an angle of 180 degrees from the adhesive side of the vinyl, ensuring that the lettering separates from the bottom layer while staying away from the surface.
Now, carefully bring the lettering down onto the surface.
Begin from the top and center and squeegee firmly down, outwards from the center, using overlapping movements.
Make sure that the vinyl lettering has been firmly placed onto the surface.
Now it's time to remove the application tape.
Begin from the upper side and carefully remove the tape at an angle of 180 degrees.
If you see letters coming off with the tape, firmly squeegee that section again and then remove the tape.
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