How to Install Vinyl Graphics in a Car

Dressing up a car with graphic art adds a custom look to any automobile. Attaching vinyl graphics to the surface of the car, whether a side panel, trunk, hood or window is a simple matter of time and concentration. Using a clean car, a piece of chalk, masking tape and a dry soft cloth, anyone with a little patience can apply their own vinyl graphics to their car. Read on to learn how to install vinyl graphics in a car.

Things You'll Need

• Vinyl graphics
• Surface cleaner
• Chalk
• Masking tape
• Soft cloth

Instructions

1. Order your vinyl graphics custom made at any local print or sign shop. It is a good idea to bring either a picture or the car in question to help the graphic designer aid you in selecting color, font, width and placement. Mail order vinyl graphics will lack this personal touch.

2. Pick up your vinyl graphics and take them home. Installation of the graphics is usually a service offered by the print shop for a fee. Going home, taking your time and focusing on the application yourself saves money and gives you input into your custom look.

3. Clean the area of the car where graphics are to be placed thoroughly and let dry completely. This will ensure no grime, moisture or debris will interfere with the application of the vinyl. Waxing will make it difficult for graphics to stick and is not recommended.

4. Place vinyl graphic, with the paper back still attached, in position on the car and use chalk to mark the position on the car's surface as accurately as possible. This allows you to change the position several times before attaching the vinyl with masking tape as repositioning is messy after application.

5. Peel away the vinyl paper backing on the top right hand corner, making sure vinyl does not slip by checking its position against the corresponding chalk mark.

6. Use your left hand to hold the vinyl in place as you pull the backing slowly away with your right hand, buffing out air bubbles with a dry cloth as you go. Be sure to take as much time as you need to softly push out any air from below the vinyl, avoiding wrinkles and creases. Remove backing completely.

7. Wipe away chalk marks using the dry cloth, remove masking tape and avoid washing the car for a few days. This gives the vinyl adhesive time to set permanently so you can enjoy your custom look without rips and tears for a long time to come.