Welcome to PRSmotorsport.com, your go-to shop for quality stickers to personalize your car or van. In this article, we'll guide you step by step on how to best apply your stickers for a flawless and long-lasting result.
THE NECESSARY MATERIAL
Before you begin the process of applying the stickers, make sure you have all the necessary materials at hand. You will need:
- The stickers of your choice
- A squeegee or a soft plastic card
- Adhesive tape to temporarily secure the stickers in place
- A mild, non-shiny cleaner to prepare the surface
- A microfiber cloth to dry the surface
- A heat gun or hair dryer
- A cutter (new blade)
Once you have gathered all the materials, carefully clean the area where you want to apply the stickers. Make sure there is no dust, dirt or wax residue that could reduce the adhesion. Dry thoroughly.
POSITIONING AND ALIGNMENT
First of all, using the adhesive tape, temporarily place all your stickers in the desired locations with adhesive tape to get an idea of the location and alignment. This is an essential step to avoid application errors and poorly positioned stickers.
Take the time to make sure that the sticker is centered and aligned with the contours of your vehicle. If necessary, ask a friend for help to make sure that everything is perfect, take a step back to see the whole thing, compare the result with photos from the internet...
Some tips for perfect placement
1. Lay the vehicle flat : This may seem silly, but a level vehicle makes it much easier to position your decoration.
2. Create visual cues : You can create visual cues using your adhesive tape. Accurately measure the distance between the edge of the sticker and certain reference points on your body such as corners, headlights, handles, etc. Transfer these marks and measurements to each side of the vehicle for perfect symmetry.
3. Start with the easiest: Practice by starting with the simplest or smallest stickers. This will allow you to understand the principle without taking any risks.
4. Make it easy for yourself: For large designs, you can cut into several pieces when possible and place them one by one. In the photo of the Subaru decoration for example, we cut out the stars, normally included at the comma, this is easier to place in two pieces.
APPLICATION
CAUTION: Avoid handling the glue side of the sticker with your fingers. Work in a dust-free and wind-protected area.
Now that you have positioned your sticker, you can begin the application process. Follow these simple steps to get the best results:
First of all you will notice that these are composed of 3 layers:
1. The transfer ( top layer, flexible and transparent )
2. The sticker itself ( in the middle )
3. The backing paper ( the bottom layer, thicker and more opaque )
FINISHES
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Check the sticker carefully to make sure it is properly adhered to your vehicle. If you notice any edges that are not sticking properly, use the scraper to reattach them before dust sets in.
- If air bubbles are present, you can gently pierce them with a needle and then use the squeegee.
Other finishes
If the adhesive decoration goes over a door handle or other bodywork element, make a clean and precise cut flush with it and press the squeegee firmly into the corner.
Or
Plan to remove the elements before applying the stickers if it is possible to do so easily, so that the sticker goes underneath. In addition, by reattaching it, it will hold everything in place very effectively.
SPECIFIC CASE OF A SIDE STICKERS
If the sticker needs to be applied to both doors in one piece (or to the door and the wing...) here are the steps to follow.
After following the steps above, the sticker is then in one piece but goes over the door opening. You just need to:
- Make a clean and precise cut right in the center of the space in question.
- Fold down the excess by pressing firmly (you will have remembered to degrease the bodywork returns in these places to ensure the hold)
- Heat with the hair dryer (or heat gun) from a reasonable distance, pressing to mold the adhesive to the shape of the bodywork.
TIP FOR AN OPTIMAL OUTFIT
For a perfect outfit we advise you to carry out this last step. It is not obligatory but highly recommended in winter .
Before using this method, make sure the sticker is properly applied and aligned to your preference. Then, turn on the hair dryer to a medium temperature and direct the hot air flow at the sticker, keeping it at a safe distance to avoid any damage.
Applying heat will activate the sticker's adhesive , allowing it to better adhere to the vehicle's surface. This technique is especially useful for larger, more complex stickers.
While you are heating the sticker, use a squeegee ( a felt squeegee works best) or a plastic card to apply gentle, even pressure over the entire surface of the sticker. This will help remove air bubbles and ensure better adhesion. Continue to gently heat the sticker as you smooth it out for best results.
It is important to remember that heat should be used carefully and sparingly. Do not overheat the sticker or vehicle surface as this may damage the paint or distort the sticker.
By following these tips, you will get optimal hold for your stickers, allowing them to withstand bad weather, washing and road travel.
There you have it, you now have all the keys in hand to successfully apply your car, 4x4, van & camper stickers. Let yourself be guided and have fun customizing your vehicle yourself so that it looks like you!
Quality designs, durable grip, and attentive customer service await you at prsmotorsport.com
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1 comment
Bonjour,
Votre bande stickers pour capot est-ce que c’est un calendré ou un coulé (thermoformable)?
Est-ce que c’est une colle anti bulle ? (Colle cadrié)
Cordialement