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A little prep makes a big difference. Choose your sticker type below, then follow the steps.
Lettering & shapes without a background
Prepare your surface first. The transfer tape keeps your design aligned while you apply it; the paper backing comes off before the decal touches the surface.
Lay the decal flat, backing side down. Rub firmly across the transfer tape with a squeegee or a plastic card so every letter and detail sticks to the tape.
Turn the decal over and slowly peel the backing paper away. Keep all of the vinyl on the transfer tape. If a detail stays on the backing, stop, lay it back down and press again.
Line up the design before it touches the surface. Start at one edge and smooth it onto the surface gradually. Use your squeegee or plastic card to press firmly from the center outward across every detail.
Pull the tape back slowly at a low angle, keeping it close to the surface. If vinyl lifts, lay the tape back down, press that area again and continue slowly. Only the vinyl should remain.
The letters and shapes stay on the surface. Remove the transfer tape completely; it is only there to help you apply the decal.
One-piece stickers, including clear stickers
Start with a clean, dry surface. Printed stickers, including clear stickers, and our one-piece decals with a background do not need transfer tape.
Check the position with the backing still on. Start at an edge and gently separate the sticker from its backing. Keep your fingers off the adhesive as much as possible.
Check the alignment before the adhesive touches the surface. Start with one edge and gently lay the rest of the sticker down.
Press across the sticker toward its edges with your fingers or a soft cloth. The sticker stays in one piece; there is no transfer tape to remove.
Watch the installation examples before you apply your decal. Videos load when you press play.
Follow the application process from backing paper to finished decal.
Watch an installation before applying your own design.
Stop peeling. Lay the backing back down and rub firmly over that detail through the transfer tape. Turn the decal over and peel the backing away slowly again.
Lay the tape back down and press the vinyl firmly onto the surface. Peel again slowly, folding the tape back close to the surface instead of pulling straight up. If it still lifts, stop and contact us.
Separate letters or shapes under a top sheet use the transfer decal guide. One connected sticker, including a clear printed sticker, uses the peel-and-stick guide. DTF, UV transfers and iron-on products need their own application instructions; contact us with your order number if you are unsure.
Still stuck? We can help.
Send your order number and a photo of the sticker and surface.