Instructions for applying Vinyl Lettering
These instructions are also useful for applying self adhesive signs.
With our new thicker vinyl used on the self adhesive signs, application tape is not essential, particularly on smaller signage.
Your Vinyl Lettering arrives to you with two or three layers
1. The top layer is the application tape. (If you have asked us to supply it)
2. The middle layer is the vinyl lettering or graphic.
3. The bottom layer is the backing paper.
Vinyl should be applied in a
wind free environment at room temperature.
It will not adhere if
it is too cold.
You can apply vinyl using one of the two methods as
described below. Dry application is quicker. Wet application can
be easier for beginners in that you have the chance to reposition
the sign. Please read completely before you start!
Vinyl Application Instructions
Tools Required:
Squeegee (or two bank cards, back to back.)
Soft Cloth
Masking Tape
Wax pencil
For Wet Application - Spray Bottle containing luke warm water with a few drops
of washing up liquid.
Preparation For Both Methods
1. The surface must be thoroughly
cleaned and free of all oils, waxes,
dust and dirt
2. On a flat table, with the application
tape side up, use your squeegee to wipe over the whole of the lettering
using plenty of pressure. This will stick the lettering
to the application tape and release it from the backing paper.
3. Mark guidelines to
the surface of the substrate, with the wax pencil.
Instructions for Dry Application using a Top
Hinge
4. Place the lettering/graphic accurately on the surface.
Use a wide strip of masking tape to stick the top
edge to the surface.
This becomes a hinge
5.
Lift the lettering/graphic, pull
back and cut away the top section
of the backing paper
6. Holding the base of the
lettering/graphic, allow it to return to its original postion.
7. Using the squeeegee and
light pressure,
start from top centre and with horizontal strokes, apply the vinyl.
Carry on this way removing sections of backing each time. (for
large signs this can be done in sections between letters)
8. Leave for 10 minutes
9.
Once you are sure the vinyl is securely attached to the surface, remove
the application tape diagonally
at a 180° angle
back over itself then rub entire graphic with a soft cloth paying particular
attention to the edges.
10. Remove any air bubbles by
puncturing the bubble at one edge with a pin, thensqueegee the
trapped air towards and out of the puncture.
Can also be applied using a bottom
hinge if prefered.
Instructions for the Wet Application Method
4. With the lettering face down on a flat surface, carefully peel
off the backing paper away from the lettering
5.Spray generously the area where the vinyl is to be applied with
your wetting solution. Spray the vinyl lightly.
6. Place the vinyl on the prepared surface using your guidelines to
help position it. Lettering can be removed and repositioned as long
as the surface stays wet.
7. When you are happy with the position use
your squeegee to forces the bubbles and fluid out. Start at the centre and work
your way out. 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
vinyl, it will not adhere to the surface.
8. Allow to dry for about an hour.
9.Gently and slowly peel back
the application tape diagonally, keeping
your hand firmly on the lettering to prevent it pulling back up.
Note : If the lettering is not sticking to surface, repeat the squeegee
process and let dry longer.
10. Remove
any remaining bubbles and fluid with a soft cloth and leave to dry
for a couple of hours.
The hinge method as described
above can also be used on wet application.
