How to Install Boat Name Lettering and Decals

If you have a boat, you know you want it to be easily recognized. The best way to make a boat distinctively yours is to put a name on it with a reflective lettering decal. You can use a dry method of application or a wet method. Unless you have experience with the dry method, the wet method is much easier to use.

Things You'll Need

• Lettering decal
• Masking tape
• Soft cleaning rag
• Measuring cup
• Water
• Palmolive dish soap
• Container
• Spray bottle
• Squeegee
• Cleaning wax

Instructions

1. Design your lettering. You can take your design to a shop that sells lettering decals. They can then adapt the design into lettering decals for you.

2. Take the lettering decal to the boat. Clean the spot on the boat where you intend to place the name and let it air dry. Use masking tape to mark where you wish to place the lettering decal.

3. Mix one cup of water with 10 drops of Palmolive dish soap. Put this mixture into a spray bottle.

4. Spray the dish soap on the boat where you intend to place the name. Get it good and wet. Spray the back of the lettering decal with the soap mixture. Gently pull the backing off the decal and carefully place the lettering in place on the boat. At this point there is still a top layer of paper in place. Leave it there.

5. Position the lettering decal just the way you want it. Working from the center to the outer edges, work out any air bubbles. You do not need to press hard at this phase of the process.

6. Allow the adhesive on the decal to set. This process can take an hour or more. It's best if the lettering dries in the shade.

7. Remove the top layer of paper. It should have had enough time to loosen from the lettering decal and should come off easily. Allow the decal to bond for several days before removing any adhesive that remains with some cleaning wax.