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There is no templated routine to applying vinyl graphics and diecut stickers. It is always possible to find other methods to this madness but the basic application process is always the same. This short routine will go through applying vinyl to a smooth glass surface without an application fluid. Application fluids for sticker and vinyl application allow the user to move the diecut sticker around and get it placed just right.
Dry application is a one shot thing. trying to pull it off after a portion has touched is very difficult. NsaneStickers.com hopes to provide 2ounce bottles of application fluid in the near future. Until then however, it can be purchased via other online stores.
Surface temperatures should be between 50 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit before attempting the installation. As a general rule, if the surface is hot to the touch it's over 90 degrees Fahrenheit. Adhesive becomes brittle when it gets too cold and gummy when it gets too hot. Applications outside the recommended range of 50 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit reduce the adhesives' ability to perform. This application tutorial is in the sun because it is southern california and it is the best lighting!
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Clean the surface:
The first step is to clean the surface which you will apply the design to. Use a cleaner appropiate for the surface.
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Transfer tape:
The sticker will come with transfer tape on the design. This tape allows you to pick the design off of its backing as one design which normally consists of many seperate parts. Use a credit card or squeege to quickly affirm the transfer tape is on the design.
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Peel the design:
Peel the design from the backing via the transfer tape. Go slowly and make sure all the small components of the vinyl sticker come off. If a piece is stubborn, normally a quick press with your finger will get the transfer tape to pick it up. Larger designs require different techinques to line up which hopefully will come in future tutorials.
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Apply the graphic:
Start with one edge and slowly apply the vinyl using either a squeege or credit card. Start from one end and lay the sticker down as you squeege. This will prevent air bubbles in your graphic. Using application fluid allows the fluid to ease the bubbles out but we did not use fluid in this tutorial as it is a small sticker.
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Squeege on last time:
Keep squeeging the graphic to make sure it is applied well to the surface. If using fluid, wait 30 seconds before the next step. If doing a dry application, move on and get ready for the masterpiece!
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Remove the transfer tape:
Start with one corner and peel the trnasfer tape off slowly. Try to peel straight back onto your self instead of up out of the surface. Move slowly and make sure the vinyl is staying. Sometimes when using fluid, the vinyl sticker will come off the surface a little. You can simply press it back down with your finger and it should be fine.
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FINAL!
If you notice air bubbles, try to work them out with the squeege. If they are too central, you can get a very fine needle point and barely prick the side of the bubble. This will allow you to press the air out of the bubble.
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