How to install Vinyl Stencils / Lettering on your Home, Office, Car, or Boat

Installing vinyl stenciling and letters can be a great way to spice up your home, office, car, or boat. It is easy to install with a little patience and attention to detail you too can achieve amazing results that adds a touch of class.
This outline shows installing the stencil on a wall, but the same process can be used for cars or boats.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Ruler or Tape Measure
• Masking Tape
• Straight Edge
• Pencil
• Eraser
• Scissors
• Vinyl Stencil
• Plastic Applicator (comes with stencil) or credit card

1. 

   Measure the overall size (length & width) of the stencil and mark the center on the top edge for later use

2. 
   Rubbing the stencil on to the transfer surface

   With the stencil on a flat and smooth surface (face up with the lettering readable) use the plastic applicator and rub each letter fully starting at the center and working to the right and to the left. Then rub the stencil starting in the center and work top to bottom.
   It is really important that you achieve a full adhesion between the mounting layer (top) and the stenciling.

3. 
   Measuring the center line of the doorway

   Mark the wall or surface with a set of marks with your pencil (do this lightly so it will erase easily later). I marked the center of the door opening and added 2" to the width of the stencil to determine the top mounting line.

4. 
   Top reference marks for mounting the stencil

   Measure over to each side of your center mark and layout two match marks for the top of the stencil using the same distance as the center mark from the top of the doorway (if necessary use a level). Place a short piece of masking tape at each side mark so the mark is on the bottom edge of the masking tape.

5. 
   Stecil in position for application

   Using the bottom of your side reference marks and center mark on the stencil place in to position and tape the top edge to form a hinge. This is critical time in the project to ensure that all ends up as planned. I would recommend that you step back look and make sure the stencil is exactly where you want it. Once you start to install it. . . there is no going back!

6. 
   Removing the backing from the stencil

   Flip the stencil up so the backing is exposed and very carefully remove the backer. Start at the top left corner and remove the backer at a 45 degree angle. Make sure as you remove the backer that each letter stays adhered to the transfer surface. You may need to re-rub the stencil again in spots to make sure. If you see any of the vinyl not sticking as desired, stop and push back the backer and re-rub. Be really patient.

7. 
   Rubbing the letters on to the wall from the transfer surface

   Now lay the stencil back down so that the adhesive side of the letter is in contact with the wall. Start in the center work to the left and to the right making sure the stencil stays flat and you achieve a good bond with the wall.

8. 
   Removing the transfer surface

   Carefully and slowly peel back the transfer layer making sure the letters stay bonded to the wall. If you see the letters not staying in place lay the transfer surface back over the letter and re-rub.

9. 
   Pressing down each letter as needed.

   After the transfer surface has been removed go over each letter to ensure a complete and full bond.

10. 
    Completed Job well done.

    Step back and enjoy you handy work.
    Nice JOB!

Tips & Warnings

• The stencil is made up of three layers: top mounting layer, middle stencil, and bottom backing layer.
• Mounting surface must be CLEAN, Dust Free, and Grease Free to promote an excellent bond.
• Be patient with the process, you will have better results.

[anh0113]

on 3/27/2009 is there an easy way to remove the vinyl lettering without damaging the drywall?

[goodselfme]

on 2/23/2009 Complete article with much info. tx

[msblakely7]

on 2/10/2009 This is a great idea - I think my kids would love it in their room. Might just have to try it!

[achieve42]

on 2/9/2009 This is a great way to really add some personality to your home, office, car, or boat. I also installed vinyl letter to our boat using the same process with the same great results.