Applying Pre-Mask Vinyl Letters to a Substrate

Industrial Plastics & Paints' computer cut vinyl letters are provided pre-spaced ready to mount to any smooth surface. Before attempting to apply the letters be sure that the surface is clean and free of any wax, silicone or other surface contaminants that will prevent the letters from sticking properly. It is a good idea to wipe the surface with a solvent strong enough to remove these contaminants but safe for the substrate. Methyl Hydrate usually fits this bill, but always test the solvent on an obscure area of the surface to be sure. The applications instructions offered here are for the dry method. Vinyl Letters can also be applied using a "Wet Method". This method allows the letters to be floated into place on a cushion of wetting solution and then the "Wetting Agent" is squeegeed away. Benefits to this application method are that alignment is easier because the letters can be moved while the surface is still wet. On the other hand the "Wetting Solution" can be messy and not compatible with some surfaces. If you choose to use the Wet Method mix a solution of ¼ tsp. of clear liquid dishwashing detergent with 32 oz of water. Then use a trigger sprayer to apply the water to the substrate.

Step 1

Draw a guideline along the top edge of the letters on the spacing tape. Next cut the excess spacing tape on either side of the letters so that the guideline goes from edge to edge. Now draw a line on the substrate where you want the top edge of the letters to be located. Clean the surface as described above. Make sure it is free of lint or other surface irregularities.

Step 2

Pre-spaced vinyl letters consist of three elements, the carrier or backing paper, the Vinyl letters themselves and the spacing or transfer tape. Lift one edge of the transfer tape from the backing paper, the vinyl letters will remain attached to the transfer tape. With the backing paper removed, align the line on the transfer tape with the line on the substrate. Lay the transfer tape down from right to left by rolling your thumb down toward the surface while removing your index finger. The adhesive of the transfer tape should be just tacked to the surface. If the positioning is not quite right, simply snap the transfer tape back off the surface and re-apply.

Step 3

Once the letters and transfer tape are in the desired position on the substrate use a rubber tipped squeegee to press the letters to the surface and remove any air pockets. Work from the center first then outward to each end. If a wrinkle should develop, snap up the edge of the transfer tape enough to lift the wrinkled area off the surface and then re-apply. When the letters are all firmly in place and smoothed down, peel back the transfer tape maintaining a 180° angle to the surface and letters. Once the transfer tape is removed go over each letter with the squeegee pressing gently but firmly to ensure that all the air pockets are removed and that the letters are firmly attached.