Preparing Surfaces for Vinyl

Using a glaze or a finishing product on top of the finished vinyl gives a different look to your project, but it is not necessary. We suggest that you avoid all aerosol (spray) finishing topcoats, as they cause your vinyl letters to curl upward.

Walls - Vinyl can be used on a multitude of surfaces, provided the surface is clean, dry, and basically flat.  There are some paints, glazes, wallpapers, and finishes that won't hold vinyl well, so make sure you try a sample before you begin a project.  High humidity, particles of cooking oil, dirt, grime, wall finishes, and texture will affect the "stickability" of vinyl.  If you need to wipe your wall down, just use a little dish soap and warm water.  Then make sure the surface is well dried before applying vinyl.

Glass - Also, remember that glass and mirrors aren't as forgiving as other surfaces, so be extra careful when you're laying the vinyl.cleaning the glass with a diluted vinegar/water mixture is better than using a household product like Windex; the vinyl tends to stick better. An application fluid like Rapid Tac is encouraged for high performance vinyl usage. Always make sure you wipe glass down well or dust particles will create bumps under your vinyl. Products such as Rapid Tac and Action Tac can be sprayed on the glass beforehand; they give you the ability to adjust vinyl on glass before it sets, and the ability to press tiny little bubbles which naturally form between vinyl and glass. The products then dry clear. They are somewhat spendy and certainly not a requirement for around-the-home glass projects.

Picture frames - To convert a favorite glass-enclosed picture frame into a see-through wall hanging, simply remove the backing and pull out the little metal holders. Then run a thin bead of clear silicone along the edge, place the glass on the adhesive, then run another thin bead of clear silicone on the glass, near the edge. With a wet finger, smooth the caulk and let harden, or cure, for 12 hours. Have the frame lay flat upside down. Then scrape off the excess caulk with a razor blade and clean the glass. The surface is now ready to apply vinyl.  Hot glue will work in a pinch when time is short!