You can apply most smaller decals without using water but for large and very large stickers this trick is a life saver.
Installing vinyl decals wet.
Here is the wet method used to apply larger stickers decals to eliminate air bubbles.
This is because there is no chance of application fluid being trapped between the vinyl decal and the vehicle surface leading to peeling and or water bubbles.
Use the wet method.
Mix 1 or 2 drops of liquid dish soap in a spray bottle of water.
The dry method will insure that your vinyl decal stays adhered to your vehicle surface.
Installing your own.
It s not hard but does take a little bit of time.
Just a little bit of dish soap in water is all you need to help install without bubbles.
Dry installation vs wet installation.
Slower than the dry method but no air bubbles.
Spray your surface and the bottom of the vinyl after removing the liner with water.
Don t get the paper liner under the vinyl adhesive wet.
Apply the sticker while the area is still wet.
The decal will not stick to itself when wet making it easier to handle during the installation and any bubbles that are trapped under the decal can easily be pushed out before the decal dries.
Using the wet method is the best way to install a large vehicle decal or graphic to ensure a smooth bubble free finish.
Small vinyl lettering and decals should be installed dry.
The most common way to install decals is the dry method.
After cleaning your surface area wet the area again using a spray bottle and a solution of about 5 soap 95 water.
While most professionals and manufacturers prefer to install vinyl dry there are occasions when wet is the way to go.
By jennifer leclaire while it s true that the dry installation method of vinyl application saves time and money let s face it not every graphic installer has the necessary skills or experience.