Big personality.
Smooth application.
Your design deserves a great finish. Follow these simple steps to get your StickEtch stickers looking their best.
Let's stick itA great finish in four steps.
For our usual printed stickers that peel straight off a backing sheet. Got separate vinyl letters under transfer tape? See the guide below.
- 01
Clean & dry
Start with a smooth, clean surface. Wash away dirt, grease and wax using a surface-safe cleaner, then dry completely with a clean, lint-free cloth.
Top tip Avoid dusty, damp, oily or freshly waxed surfaces. - 02
Peel carefully
Gently lift one edge and peel the sticker away from its backing paper. Hold it by the edges and avoid touching the adhesive.
Top tip For larger stickers, peel back just a small section to start. - 03
Find your position
Line up your sticker before it touches the surface. Lightly tack one edge in place, keeping the rest lifted so you can apply it gradually.
Top tip Take your time: repositioning can stretch the vinyl or weaken the bond. - 04
Press & smooth
Work from the attached edge across the sticker. Use firm, overlapping strokes from the centre outwards with a soft cloth or a felt-edge squeegee.
Top tip Peel the backing away gradually as you smooth larger stickers down.
Good to know before you stick.
Applying vinyl lettering with transfer tape?
If your design has a clear or paper transfer layer over separate letters or shapes, use this method:
- Clean and dry your surface, then rub over the transfer tape to help it pick up every part of the design.
- Lay the design face down and slowly peel the backing paper back on itself. The vinyl should stay on the transfer tape. If a piece lifts, lay the backing down and rub that area again.
- Align your design, lightly attach one edge and smooth across it with a felt-edge squeegee, working from the centre outwards.
- Slowly peel the transfer tape back on itself at a low angle. If any vinyl lifts, stop, lay the tape back down and press again before continuing.
Only remove the transfer tape. Any clear film that is permanently bonded to a printed sticker is its protective laminate and stays in place.
Which surfaces work best?
Smooth, clean, non-porous surfaces such as glass, suitable plastic and painted metal usually give the best results. Textured, silicone, rubber, porous or low-energy plastics can be difficult to bond to. Test an inconspicuous spot first on delicate finishes.
Avoid fresh paint until it has fully cured according to the paint manufacturer's instructions. For vehicle glass, keep stickers away from the driver's view, sensors and wiper paths.
What if I spot an air bubble?
As you apply, gently push trapped air towards the nearest free edge with a soft cloth or felt-edge squeegee. If the sticker is already firmly bonded, avoid repeatedly lifting or stretching it. Small bubbles can sometimes settle with time; contact us if you need help with a stubborn area.
Can I apply my stickers outside?
Choose a dry, sheltered spot and a surface at room temperature where possible. Avoid freezing conditions, rain, condensation and hot surfaces in direct sunlight. Apply dry unless your specific product instructions say otherwise.
How do I look after my stickers?
Once the adhesive has had time to bond, gently hand-wash with a soft cloth and mild detergent. Avoid abrasive pads, strong chemicals, soaking and pressure washing directly at the edges. For bottles and cups, hand-wash and keep stickers away from rims and food-contact areas. Do not assume a sticker is dishwasher safe.
Are window clings applied the same way?
Static clings are a different product from adhesive vinyl stickers. Use the instructions supplied with your cling, and check which side is intended to face the glass. If you are unsure which product you have, get in touch before applying it.