Vinyl Installation: Wet Application Method Tutorial - VCUarts GOlab

Vinyl Installation: Wet Application Method

The GOLab offers vinyl cutting services to all customers seeking vinyl decals for a variety of projects, installations, and exhibitions. In this video, we will cover vinyl installation using the wet application method.

The wet application method for vinyl installation provides more flexibility in repositioning decals and letterforms for beginners. There can be an equal number of challenges associated with wet installation, so it is important to note that taking your time is key. Wet applications are advised in situations where you may be applying graphics on glass, hot surfaces, in windy conditions, or when alignment is critical.

REQUIRED TOOLS:
Wet vinyl installation will require you to have a roll of painter’s tape, a bottle of glass cleaner, a level, and a squeegee.

Step 1. Clean your surface

Using your bottle of glass cleaner, clean your working surface in preparation.

Step 2. Align and hinge tape your vinyl

Use a small piece of tape to position your vinyl onto the area you want it applied.

You’ll want to use a level to make sure any lines or text are straight in proportion to your surface.

Once your vinyl is in a good place, use a larger piece of tape to secure the hinge at the top of your sheet.

Use your level to check proportions again, just for good measure.

Step 3. Spray window and transfer

Lift your hinge and spray the window with glass cleaner.

Place your squeegee where your tape hinge meets your decal.

Begin to peel the backing of your vinyl down and away from the hinge as you smooth your tape against the window using the squeegee.

Step 4. Smooth and peel

Smooth over the entire surface area of your design with your squeegee and remove hinge tape.

Peel the transfer tape away from your design.

Step 5. Reposition

While the application fluid is still wet, you may carefully reposition anything that needs realignment.