How to Make a Car Window Decal
Making a window decal with today's desktop publishing software is simple and fun. No matter the size desired, the theme of the decal, or its shape, it is possible to create something unique and memorable. The following instructions explain how to create a car window decal from the PrintMaster desktop publishing program. Its easy to use and allows anyone to create a picture perfect project right from the beginning.
Things You'll Need
- Computer system with a color laser printer Scanner (optional) Color ink Window decals PrintMaster desktop publishing program Graphics
Instructions
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Open PrintMaster once it is installed. A window will come up to ask what type of project you want to create. Click on the "sticker" logo. Choose the appropriate sticker brand name and size in the next window that appears. If you can't find the particular brand you purchased, choose a setup that matches how the stickers are laid out on the page of your brand.
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Add a graphic to the decal layout page that pops up next. Click on "Add" and scroll down to "Graphic" in the top menu bar. Find your graphic, either within PrintMaster's own Art Gallery or to another disc within your system. For the purpose of this set of instructions, we will use a graphic from within PrintMaster.
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Use the options provided within the setup program to narrow your graphic search. Once you found one that you like, click "Select." The graphic will immediately go to your window decal setup page. Reduce, expand, or manipulate the graphic using the four cross pointer to place it wherever you want it within the layout. To rotate the graphic, use the rotating bar provided. Once the graphic is placed as desired, move on to text.
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Click the "Add" bar again and scroll down to "Text." A box will come up with several options to choose from. Choose "Text Box." Once you do, the box will immediately appear on your window decal setup page. Manipulate the text box to the area of the decal where you want the text placed. Expand or reduce the text box size to fit within the range that you desire.
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Choose a font, size and style from the menu bar. You will likely have to try several before you find one that you like. If you want to shape, headline or stretch the text, first highlight the words and then click "Format." Scroll down to "Text" to choose the application that you want.
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Print the decal once it is finalized. Do this by clicking on "File" within the menu bar and scrolling down to "Print." A box will come up that allows you to set printing preferences.
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Choose the "Print Reversed" option for a mirrored image of the decal if that is required from the paper brand of decal chosen. Otherwise, to print as is, leave the settings as they are. Also decide on the dpi (dots per inch) setting desired between 600 dpi and 1200 dpi.
Choose "Setup" to switch between portrait or landscape options, depending upon how the decal was set up. Click on "Paper Size" to choose the size of decal paper being used. Finally, click on properties to make any changes in how the print job will be handled. For example, for a window decal, you will likely want it printed at the maximum setting for full color saturation. Make sure the Color setting is chosen for colored decals. -
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Click "OK" once all of your choices have been made. Everything will go back to the initial page setting. Click "Print" and wait for the finished product.
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Tips & Warnings
Window decals can be purchased that require reverse print setup. For simpler handling, choose one that does not. PrintMaster has a window decal setting for Avery 3276 window decals. Design your own graphic, scan it into the computer system, and save it on the hard drive. Play around with text settings to create unusual layered, multicolored, or unusually shaped text that will set your decal apart from the norm.
Do not use an inkjet printer to print a window decal. Moisture will gather on the window and cause the colors of the decal to run or disintegrate. Do not use a copyrighted graphic to produce your window decal. If you do, you have broken the law are subject to a hefty fine.
