Custom vinyl lettering is becoming rapidly popular for many applications. It is a great way to achieve a smooth, professional look for home décor projects. It can also be used for business advertising and public advertising. The ideas are endless, and the applications a lot of fun. Vinyl can be applied to walls, tiles, glass, and more. So, when you apply your vinyl to wood, make sure you do it right so that it sticks right and looks great like it should.
When applying vinyl to wood it must be a painted with a smooth, glossy enamel so the lettering/decal can adhere to it easily. Vinyl lettering is ready to apply self adhesive lettering, but it is not going adhere well to paint that is not glossy enamel.
Apply to painted wood using the following steps, but prepare all needed materials first:
1. Before applying be sure to clean the wood surface so it is dust free and clear of anything that would make the vinyl less adhesive. The lettering will not adhere if surface is not properly cleaned. So, take your time, sand down the wood, paint it well, and then use a damp cloth, or a duster to clean it. The cleaner the surface, the better the adherence.
2. Peel off the paper backing and put to the side. Your vinyl will be sticky on the back, so be careful not to let it touch or it will be hard to get it apart. Make sure everything is ready and close by before you peel the back off.
3. Mark the area where the letters will be applied and carefully place the letters on the wood making sure the letters are placed in the exact area and if needed they can be measured to assure they are centered. You would be wise to measure before hand so that it is easy and fast to apply.
4. Depending on the size of the letters or sign, the letters can be rubbed onto the wood by simply using a smooth popsicle stick. Carefully apply the letters to the wood with side to side even strokes to make letters stay on wood. This is a very important step to avoid any air bubbles as you apply the letters. Avoid any hard strokes as it could tear or damage the letters. The thinner the lettering, the more careful you need to be to get it to stick.
5. Once all areas of the letters have been rubbed on the wood the backing of the vinyl should easily peel off and the letters will be applied to the wood to create a professional look for your project. Smooth them over with your finger one time after the backing is removed just to ensure they are stuck down well.
6. Sometimes you may apply a final spray shellac to give it a shiny finish and protect the wood and lettering from dust and sun exposure, but it is not necessary. It will help your vinyl stick better, and protect it, but your vinyl will work fine without this step.
The best thing is that it is a simple process. If you follow the step by step instructions given above, it should very simple. So, get your popsicle stick and wood surface ready before trying to apply the vinyl.
Remember the things we treasure the most are the things we make with our hands. So happy crafting, and many more projects to come!!!!!!