Applications
You can utilize the DuraCut Series vinyl cutters to creat a full range of products. From window signs to vehicle decals, large format pubilic and safety signage, even laying out building legends.
Applying Lettering, Graphics and Logos to Vehicles
A common application for cut vinyl lettering and graphics is for making "decals" for cars, delivery vans and trucks. Distinctive letting and graphics make your behicles stand out, serving as a moving billboard promoting your business.
Start with a photograph of the vehicle. Sketch the lettering and graphics you want on te vehicle. This provides a design plan, and gives you an idea of what will look good and fit on your vehicle.
Use your computer to create the text and graphics needed and cut them on the DuraCut using the appropriate color vinyl. Different portions of your design may be cut from differnt colors, providing a multicolor image for your vehicle.
As a part of your design be sure the area the design will cover is free from rust and is relatively flat. Although vinyl can stretch somewhat to adhere to curved surfaces, complex curves and sharp curves will be a problem that require the vinly to be applied in thin strips.
Vinyl Application
It is best to apply vinyl to vehicles indoors. Never apply vinyl in direct sunlight, as it will adhere too quickly resulting in vinyl that is not positioned correctly. Also, applying vinyl indoors eliminates the problems resulting from breezes blowing vinyl and causing it to stick to places you don't want it stuck.
The Wetting Agent
A wetting agent is used to prevent the vinyl from immediately sticking. This allows the vinyl to slide around so as to be correctly positioned. You can make your own wetting agent by adding three drops of dish washing detergent to one quart of water and putting it in a spray bottle. Another formula provides a wetting agent that dries quicker: combine a half-cup of rubbing alcohol, two drops of dish washing liquide and water in a one quart spray bottle.
Positioning Your Text and Graphics
Be sure that the surface where the vinyl is to be applied is clean and completely free fromdirt, grease, oil and loose paint.
Apply the transfer tape to your design and then removing the backing material.
Use the wetting agent to thoroughly wet the surface where the vinyl will be applied.
Position your lettering and graphics against the vehicle, using masking tape to hold it in place. Once it is correctly positioned, start at the center and use gentle finger pressure to stick itto the vehicle. Until the wetting agent dries you will be able to lift it and reapply as necessary.
The Final Steps
Once it is stuck to the vehicle, starting at the center, use a squeegee to work the water or air out from under the vinyl.
Wait 10 or 15 minutes for the water to completely evaporate, then remove the transfer tape. If the vinly starts to come off with the backing tape, reapply it and squeegee again.