How to Apply Car Decals?
2 Answers
Rinse the car body clean, paying special attention to the areas where the decals will be applied. After cleaning, spray water on the application area. Peel off the backing paper of the decal, evenly spread the decal on the car body, and use a squeegee to smooth out any bubbles inside the decal. Be gentle and slow when smoothing the decal. Once everything is evenly smoothed, peel off the protective film on the surface of the decal to complete the application.
I've been applying car decals myself, and the key takeaway is that cleaning the car surface is crucial. Use alcohol or a degreaser to thoroughly clean the area where the decal will be applied, ensuring it's free of dust and oil stains; otherwise, bubbles will be abundant. Tools to prepare: a spray bottle filled with warm soapy water (a few drops of dish soap mixed with water), a rubber squeegee, a small knife or scissors, and a heat gun or hairdryer. Spray the soapy water on both the car surface and the backing paper of the decal. Immediately after peeling off the protective film, spray water to allow the decal to be movable, then carefully position it. Use the squeegee to gently push from the center outward, removing all bubbles and moisture—slow and steady movements are key. For stubborn bubbles, use a needle to poke a small hole to release the air. Use the heat gun on edges and corners to help the decal adhere more firmly to curved surfaces. After application, rinse off any soap residue with clean water, dry it, and let it cure for 24 hours without exposure to water. Avoid working in hot weather as the soapy water evaporates quickly, increasing the chance of mistakes. Beginners should start with simple designs in inconspicuous areas to practice positioning before tackling larger surfaces. Having all tools ready makes the process much smoother.
