How to Use Water Slide Decal Paper
Water slide decal paper can be used to transfer your creative design onto a large range of surfaces. From decorating a toddler's wooden dresser with dinosaur images to adding snowflakes to a glass window pane for the holidays, water slide decals can provide creative additions to each room in the house. Model makers can use decals to adhere distinctive markings to planes and cars, and guests can dress up place settings for a dinner party by creating personalized drinking glasses. By using a few simple tools you may already have around the house, you can begin to accent your home with water slide decals.
Things You'll Need
- Decal design
- Inkjet printer
- Inkjet water slide decal paper
- Scissors
- Clear acrylic gloss spray
- Tape
- Newspaper or cardboard
- Bowl of water
- Surface on which to apply decal
Instructions
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Creating the Decal
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1
Create a design for your decal on your computer or use free clip art.
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2
Determine which side of the water slide decal paper is to be printed on by reading the manufacturer instructions carefully.
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3
Print out your decal, and let it dry for at least 10 minutes. For decals larger than 3 inches; let dry for at least 20 minutes.
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4
Cut out your image from the rest of the decal paper. Put tape on the back of the image, and affix on newspaper or cardboard outside.
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5
Spray the decal with clear acrylic gloss. Let dry for at least 1 hour.
Application of Decal
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6
Soak the decal for 1 minute in a bowl of water.
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7
Remove the protective backing on the decal that has loosened in the water. If backing is still partially attached, immerse the decal in the water for an additional 30 seconds.
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8
Apply the decal to your surface, smoothing it down from the center to the top and bottom.
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1
Tips & Warnings
Water slide decals adhere best to glass, models, wood and plastics. Clean your surface before applying the decal. Read manufacturer's specific printing instructions because details may vary slightly from company to company. Use the acrylic gloss on the decal again after applying to give it extra protection and shine.
Never spray aerosols inside. Wear a mask and protective eye wear when using an aerosol.
