QA

Quick Answer: How To Apply Die Cut Decals

How do die cut stickers work?

Die cut stickers are cut straight through the vinyl and paper backing to fit the exact shape of the design. This makes for a great looking sticker even before it’s applied. Die cutting designs can range from a single rectangular window to fancy lettering and multiple intricate designs.

What is a die cut vinyl decal?

Plotter Cut Vinyl decals (die-cut) A machine with a small razor cuts into the vinyl but not the backing paper, then the excess vinyl is weeded out of the decal by hand, then covered with top application tape that is used for you to install the decal onto your surface.

Are die cut stickers waterproof?

Our laminated polypropylene die cut stickers are manufactured to be both waterproof and scratch-resistant. This means you can stick them to any smooth surface and they will stay beautiful.

What is the difference between kiss cut and die cut?

A Die Cut Sticker will be laser cut completely through the backing of the sticker, so all you see is the custom shape and sticker design. Kiss Cut Stickers are also digitally printed, and laser cut, just with a slightly lighter touch, which leaves a slightly visible backing.

What is the difference between a decal and sticker?

Stickers and labels are usually smaller in nature and applied to smaller products such as laptops, water bottles, and other product packaging. Decals, on the other hand, are usually larger and applied to things such as walls, windows, floors, and vehicles.

Can you use Windex to apply decals?

The vinyl will not stick as well to any oil or waxy surface. Use a little rubbing alcohol to clean the area where the decal will be applied. If you’re applying the decal to glass, DO NOT use Windex or other ammonia-based cleaners; the ammonia interferes with the adhesive.

How do you put on a decal?

What is die cut label?

A “die cut” is achieved by using a metal die tool to cut your label shape into the roll. It may help to visualize a cookie cutter. But die cut labels require extreme precision– the tool must cut through the label material and stop before it cuts through the underlying label liner.

What is a kiss cut?

Kiss Cuts are light surface cuts on stickers. Add multiple kiss cuts to your sticker design to make custom sticker sheets. This places a single kiss cut around the perimeter of a die cut or standard shape sticker, which allows you to easily peel it from the backing material.

What is a kiss cut line?

Kiss cut stickers are cut through the vinyl layer around the edge of your design without cutting through the backing paper. This leaves an extra backing around your sticker.

Are matte or glossy stickers better?

If your sticker or decal has a lot of colors in it, go for glossy. This finish provides low glare, so stickers blend in well to any surface it is adhered to. If you prefer a more subtle and muted look or your artwork has few colors—let matte add some extra sophistication.

What is a slap sticker?

There are cool stickers, and then there are “slaps”. This is the term given to sticker art that goes beyond the realms of mere graphics and into an artistic world, inhabited by mad creatures and bizarre characters.

How do you apply vinyl with Windex?

Spray the adhesive side of the decal with Windex after or as you peel away the backing paper. Use the squeegee to squeeze out all the Windex and air bubbles from underneath the decal. Wipe away the excess Windex and let the decals take a set. This is key, and it’s a good time to walk away from the car.

Do you apply vinyl wet or dry?

In general, decals without transfer tape applied should always be installed wet, while decals with transfer tape can be installed dry or wet. If the wet method is chosen for a decal with transfer tape, the transfer tape cannot be removed until the decal has completely dried.

How do you apply large vinyl decals without bubbles?

Slide or reposition the sticker into exactly the correct place that you want it to be. Hold down the sticker in it’s centre, and with a squeegee or similar tool, gradually apply the sticker by lightly brushing it down onto the surface, working outwards from the middle towards the edges, in smooth firm strokes.

What is decals short for?

“Decal” is short for “decalcomania” and usually is a more decorative type design. Thus “slide-on transfer decals” in the model-building world, or water-slide ceramic decals (Transfers) for tile and ceramic uses are an accurate use of the decal term.

Are decals good for cars?

If you own a car, decals are a great way to customize its exterior and add a personal touch without spending a fortune. Fortunately, decals can add a really cool touch to your car if you opt for high-quality products. These adhesive stickers are quick and easy to apply and can be removed at any time.

Are vinyl decals waterproof?

Vinyl stickers on their own are not waterproof; it’s what the printing manufacturers put on them that makes them waterproof.

Can you use glass cleaner to install decals?

We recommend Sprayway Glass cleaner for all your glass cleaning needs, but especially with decals and stickers. The main reason we use this particular product is that it is Ammonia free. Glass cleaners with ammonia will degrade the stickers quicker than using Ammonia free cleaners.

Can You Use soapy water to apply vinyl?

After cleaning your surface area, wet the area again using a spray bottle and a solution of about 5% soap / 95% water. Apply the sticker while the area is still wet. The soapy water will dry in a few minutes and leave your sticker firmly affixed.