How do you apply a dry-application sticker?
Apply a dry sticker by cleaning the surface with isopropyl alcohol, hinging the decal with masking tape, peeling the liner from one side, and squeegeeing from the hinge outward at a 45-degree angle. Use dry application under about 6 inches. Above that, or on glass, switch to wet application with soapy water so you can reposition.
| Dry application best under | ~6 in / 150 mm |
|---|---|
| Wet solution | 1-2 drops dish soap per pint of water |
| Surface prep | 70% isopropyl alcohol, fully dry |
| Cure time | 24-72 hours to full adhesion |
Dry application, step by step
- Clean. Wipe with 70% isopropyl alcohol and let it flash off completely. Skip household cleaners: most leave a silicone or wax film that kills adhesion.
- Position and hinge. Place the sticker where you want it, still on its liner, and run a strip of masking tape along one edge.
- Peel half. Fold the sticker back on the hinge and peel the liner away from that half only.
- Squeegee. Lay the exposed half down from the hinge outward with a squeegee or credit card held at about 45 degrees, using overlapping strokes.
- Finish. Remove the tape, peel the rest of the liner, and squeegee the second half the same way.
- Set. Press the edges firmly. Adhesive reaches full strength in 24 to 72 hours; avoid washing or weather until then.
When to go wet instead
Switch to wet application when the decal is larger than about 6 inches, when it is going on glass, or when placement has to be exact.
- Mix one or two drops of dish soap into a pint of water in a spray bottle.
- Mist the surface and the adhesive side of the decal.
- Float the decal into position, then squeegee firmly from the center outward to push the water out.
- Let it dry 24 hours before touching or washing. Small haze pockets clear as the water evaporates.
Temperature matters
Apply between about 50 and 90 F. Cold vinyl is stiff and cold surfaces cause adhesive to under-wet; hot surfaces make vinyl stretch and lock down before you can straighten it.
Related questions
- Can I use wet application on any Stickerine sticker?
- Yes. Every Stickerine sticker uses a permanent acrylic adhesive that tolerates wet application. Just allow 24 hours of dry time before washing or exposing it to weather.
- How do I get bubbles out after applying?
- Small bubbles under about 1/4 inch usually self-heal within a few days. For larger ones, prick the edge with a pin and press the air out toward the hole.