How to Make Domed Decals
Domed decals are in high demand for all kinds of businesses, and their use has grown dramatically in recent years. A typical label or decal is coated with urethane, creating a smooth, one-dimensional surface. The 3D domed decal captures light and augments the aesthetic impact of the graphic design or logo and colors. In addition, its rounded, high-shine finish offers an eye-catching, polished first impression for your brand. You can create professional-quality domed decals yourself with polyurethane epoxy resin available at craft supply stores and online, or with decal kits available from decal printers and manufacturers.
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Things You'll Need
- Desktop inkjet printer
- Computer paper, card stock or printable vinyl
- Epoxy resin
- White glue or decoupage medium
- Toothpicks
- Wooden craft sticks
- Masking tape
- X-acto knife or scissors
Instructions
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Print a sheet of decals. Cut each decal from the sheet with a craft knife or scissors. Brush a thin coat of white glue or decoupage medium over the whole decal. Set each one aside until it's dry. Place two wood craft sticks on your work table, the same width apart as the decal is wide. Place the decal on the craft sticks. Ensure your work table is completely level before applying the resin.
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Mix the epoxy resin according the manufacturer instructions. Apply drops of the epoxy resin to the center of the decal. Push the resin into the corners and up to the edge of the decal with a toothpick. Pop air bubbles with the toothpick.
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Continue adding drops of the resin until a dome is formed--surface tension will keep the resin from flowing over the edges of the decal. Let the decal cure and dry for at least 24 hours.
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Tips & Warnings
Resin doming guns are available for large projects.
Decals may be dried with a hair dryer or in a toaster oven set to 150 degrees Fahrenheit.
Some companies, such as Ripped Sheets, offer the option of purchasing pre-made decals or DIY kits.
Select non-toxic epoxy resin. It is eco-friendly, easy to use and there's no noxious fumes to worry about.
Keeping the decal flat and level is the most important aspect to properly doming decals.
