Happs vinyl application question.

[AlexC]

I bought some Happs vinyl to use on the sides of a cabinet.
What is the best way to apply it?
I've always used laminate so I've never had the bubble problem or the need to shift the material into place.
I've read some people using "soapy" water and then some people use
Windex instead.
Which is better and any other hints or things I should avoid or expect?
I want to avoid having to waste a large piece of vinyl. 

[mhermann]

I am assuming it is the vinyl adhesive. It is easy to apply, Just unroll about 2 feet of it apply it and smooth it with your hand or a DRY cloth like a t-shirt. Use a pin to poke any holes in air bubbles that may arise.

Continue unrolling and applying it until you are done.

[Razor]

A friend runs a vinyl cutting business, ive done some work for him before applying vinyl to vehicles.  We normally use a small plastic paddle type thing, which he calls a "squeegee" (dont know if thats the correct technical term).  Depends on the size of your vinyl, I would take the backing off and apply a bit at at time pushing from the middle to the edges quite firmly (to get excess air out), then do another section as you go.  If its big be carefull not to stretch the vinyl, but hold it taunt as you do it to avoid crinkles, then pretty much as mhermann said get a pin and poke any airbubbles out.  (9/10 theres gonna be airbubbles of some sort I would say).  If its a small graphic, just wack it on there as you want it then again push from the middle outwards throughout the graphic and peel off the backing gently, might also be handy to have a scalpal for any lettering (if you have any) that might get crinkled or shifted, you can slice underneath them take them off and reapply if done carefully.

[AlexC]

I guess I'll give it go this weekend -
But use Windex right?

[johnvv]

No, do not use Windex, there is no need.  In addition, Windex with ammonia in it will weaken the adhesive on the vinyl.

The 'windex' method is often used for control panel overlays or side art.  These pieces are both more difficult to handle than the Happ's vinyl and have a much stronger adhesive. 

As the other in this thread have mentioned, the Happs vinyl is pretty easy to use.  You should have a vinyl (smooth edge) squeegee and even a small wallpaper roller to smooth the vinyl out.  Also note that the target surface must be very smooth and completely free of any debris.  Any dirt, hair, bumps, etc., will show through the vinyl, so surface prep is key.

[AlexC]

Great, thanks for the instructions, it clears a lot of my concerns.

[johnvv]

For some great pictures vinyl applied by someone with great talent see Archer's Missile Command at:

http://www.ionpool.net/arcade/archuk/mc_restoration.html

specifically:

http://www.ionpool.net/arcade/archuk/016_new_rear_labels_and_replacment_textured_vinyl_wood.jpg

Note that the vinyl will strech a bit when applying.  If you have friend that can help, all the better.  Plan out what you want to do first.


John VV