How to fit new decals/stickers/transfers to new paint?

[Arthur]

I think I have seen this before but searched to no avail. I have just painted a side panel and would like to know how to fit the decals. Any help would be appreciated. Ta.

[Asswipe]

Use water to apply the stickers. Rub the sticker firmly from the middle outwards with a squeegee, or an applicator that does not leave any material behind. Squeezing the water out prevents air pockets. It also makes a stronger, more durable application.

[Arthur]

The stickers appear to have a sticky adhesive. Would this be affected by the water?

[Asswipe]

No. I've used this method before when applying stickers to paint and surfboards. It's never failed me and they've been sticky. It is a method used simply to ensure air bubbles are eradicated which not only look unsightly, they also reduce the stickers life because it has not been uniformly stuck. The method of using water eradicates all moisture in the process and serves to give a solid stick.

Bear in mind that unless a clear-coat is applied over the top of the decal, all stickers have a shelf-life that will be exceeded eventually. But I've had these surfboards 10 yrs and more and they're still on them.

If in doubt, buy some regular stickers that are expendable and try it out. That way you'll see they stick hard and you can perfect the process of eradicating bubbles before trying your hand with the decals you're talking about.

[jules_1972]

Have Used Asswipes method on many occasions, works a treat!!

Also used Windex as well...

Easy as.

[potato]

The stickers appear to have a sticky adhesive. Would this be affected by the water?

the water/windex neutralizes the sticky adhesive,as you squeegee the sticker after its applied and the water is expelled, the glue returns and bonds to the paint.........

[wolfies]

I know the sign writer I used ,used to use water and a we TAD of dish washing liquid in a spray bottle. That way ,aswell as getting rid of the bubbles it also allowed you time to move it around to the right spot before the glue of the stcker had set..

[Asswipe]

Nice wolfies. Listen to potato, I read lots of good shit about his work

[Arthur]

Thank you, gentlemen. All seems clear now.

[Graelin]

I have just done this and a link to the instructions for the kit I had. We found that a good shake up of dish wash liquid helped and being firmer with squeezing the water out gave a better job. We learnt a lot, didnt get it perfect but we did it ourselves to gain experience. I now take my hat of to potatos work!

Se graphics installation down the left side

SPEEDANDSPORTREPRODUCTION.COM

[potato]

cheers asswipe and graelin!

pop a smidge of dishwash liquid in warm water, a clean white soft cloth to wipe the bubbles out, patience and do it with passion!

its a bike, bikes are good

[filbert]

i've always used baby shampoo with water works well for window tint as well and no risk of the detergent breaking down the glue.

[Arthur]

Whee Haa! Stickers on. Just used water and it was pretty easy, but I can see how the touch of the slippery stuff would help. A bit wobbly but pretty damn fine overall. Clear coat over, Honda flakey silver under. One damaged side panel looking good again.
thanks again for all the help. Much appreciated.

[potato]

go on, post a pic!!!!!!!!!