What are vinyl stickers?

I am a salesperson for Signwell, a manufacturer of vinyl stickers. First and foremost, vinyl stickers are materials used for advertising, signage, and decoration. They are a common type of self-adhesive paper material. The production material used is vinyl film, a plastic film made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC) material. When used outdoors or indoors, vinyl stickers can withstand environmental changes and various stresses, as they are highly durable and resilient. They are waterproof, UV-resistant, and resistant to damage from rain, while maintaining excellent quality and appearance.

The production process of vinyl stickers

The production process of vinyl stickers is quite complex.

First, the vinyl film is cut into the desired shapes and sizes.

The second step is to print patterns, text, or images on the vinyl film according to design requirements. Printing methods can include screen printing, digital printing, or inkjet printing.

The third step is to apply an appropriate adhesive on the back to create a self-adhesive type.

The fourth step is to cut the stickers into individual units or roll them up for ease of use.

The applications of vinyl stickers

Vinyl stickers have a wide range of applications. In the commercial and advertising fields, vinyl stickers are used to create signs, labels, posters, billboards, banners, and more. They can be applied to various surfaces indoors and outdoors, such as windows, walls, vehicles, display cabinets, and shelves. The versatility of vinyl stickers also allows for personalized customization. People can design and create unique stickers according to their needs and preferences, such as car stickers, laptop stickers, phone stickers, and personal decoration stickers.

How to install vinyl stickers?

Step 1: Bubble Removal

The first thing you need to do is place the decal/sticker on a hard surface. Using a vinyl squeegee or credit card, firmly swipe the decal from the center to the edges. This step ensures that all bubbles have been released from under the adhesive.

Step 2: Clean the Surface

Cleaning the surface where the decal will be applied is crucial. After cleaning, ensure that the surface is smooth and completely dry before applying the decal.

Step 3: Separate the Decal Paper from the Backing Paper

The next step is to flip the decal paper over and carefully separate the backing paper from the transfer tape. Remember, your decal will now be adhered to the transfer tape. Do not discard the backing paper temporarily!

Step 4: Apply the Decal to the Desired Surface

Starting from one side, slowly and steadily adhere the decal to the surface. While doing this, make sure there are no trapped air bubbles underneath.

Step 5: Bubble Removal

To remove any remaining bubbles, you can use a vinyl squeegee or credit card. Starting from the center of the decal, apply firm pressure towards the edges at approximately a 45-degree angle. You may need to repeat this step several times until all bubbles are eliminated.

Step 6: Remove the Application Tape

The next step is to lift one edge of the application tape and slowly peel it off the decal. Try to keep the tape as close to the surface as possible to ensure that the decal does not lift. Make sure to completely remove the tape before completing the installation.

Step 7: Ensure Proper Adhesion of the Decal

Place the backing paper from Step 3 back onto the decal and firmly rub it. This step ensures that the decal is properly adhered to the surface.

What to avoid when applying vinyl decals

Folding the sticker

Folding the decal will cause wrinkles in the design and may permanently damage the vinyl.

Applying the sticker too quickly

Take your time and ensure a smooth application of the decal. Start from the center or move from one edge to the other.

Not spending enough time on squeegeeing

Take your time when squeegeeing the decal. If rushed, it can result in trapped air pockets, ultimately ruining your decal.

Applying decals in extreme temperature conditions

You should apply decals in ambient temperature conditions. Drastic temperature changes can affect the adhesive properties of the decal on the surface.