Vinyl Lettering FAQ

What is our vinyl lettering made from?

– We craft our vinyl lettering in high-performance two millimeters-thick (fifty microns) cast film of highest quality, with adhesive technology applied to its back.

How thick is our vinyl lettering?

– Two millimeters-thick (fifty microns)

Do we offer alternative types of vinyl lettering, such as reflective or marine vinyl?

– Unlike our other signage products, our vinyl lettering is crafted in color vinyl. Once produced, our machines and staff cut and weed (remove the excess) individual letters, and apply the transfer tape to the vinyl lettering in order to prepare it for easy and simple installation. The manner of production, which entails using already-colored material as opposed to printing on blank, the color range for our vinyl lettering is more limited than with our other products.
If one is interested in a design with gradients or multiple colors within the design, vinyl lettering is not a best choice. However, we have other products in our catalog that would better fit your needs, so do not hesitate to contact us.

What are the maximum and minimum dimensions of our vinyl lettering?

– Our vinyl lettering can be up to twenty-four inches in one dimension and up to six hundred inches in another. If one needs signage that is larger than that, we are still able to accommodate them with our other offers. Do not hesitate to contact us and inquire further.

What is the difference between our vinyl lettering and our removable wall decals?

– Unlike our removable wall decals, our vinyl lettering is typically not printed and it consists of individual letters and graphics. Our removable wall decals, on the other hand, are typically crafted out of a single piece of material which is then printed on. Both our removable wall decals and our vinyl lettering can be applied to non-porous and smooth surfaces.

Do we offer colors for vinyl lettering beyond what is presented on our website?

– Sometimes we are able to produce vinyl lettering in colors other than what we have presented on our website, but this requires a custom quote, which tends to take more time. Do not hesitate to contact us and inquire about your desired color.

Do we offer font options for vinyl lettering beyond what is presented on our website?

– Sometimes, we are able to produce vinyl lettering in fonts other than what we have presented on our website. Do not hesitate to contact us and inquire about your desired font.

Do we place all individual letters and design elements of a vinyl lettering design onto a single sheet of transfer tape?

– In most cases, the individual letters and graphics contained within one’s vinyl lettering quoted design will be appropriately spaced and placed on a single sheet of transfer tape, making application simple and easy.
However, if vinyl lettering exceeds the size of forty-eight inches, for black and white colors, or twenty-four inches, for all other colors, in either width or length, the vinyl lettering will be split and placed onto two sheets of transfer tape. If the quoted vinyl lettering comes in three colors or more, it will be placed on multiple sheets of transfer tape, as many as there are colors.

How does incorporating multiple colors affect vinyl lettering?

– Including multiple colors in one’s quoted vinyl lettering will affect the printing, shipping, and installation process of vinyl lettering. Most designs that are quoted in two colors can be produced in the same manner as one-color vinyl lettering – that is, placed on a single sheet of pre-masked transfer tape. Application of one-color or simple two-color vinyl lettering can be done all at once as per installation manual we have provided below, and our downloadable PDF one may also find further down on this page.
Large or complex designs that include multiple colors will be produced in layers according to color. This means that one will receive multiple sheets of vinyl lettering – each with a pre-masked tape over the top of their vinyl lettering design. Each layer will contain a vinyl lettering dot in the upper left and bottom right corner of the pre-masked transfer tape the purpose of which is to facilitate alignment during application. To apply complex vinyl lettering to one’s wall, they should simply align each sheet, using the dots on the upper left and the bottom right corner of each layer.
Then, beginning with the first layer, one should attach it to the wall and peel away the pre-masked transfer tape. Next, they should align the second layer in the desired position by lining up its registration dots to the ones from the previous layer which have now been installed on the wall. Proceed by adhering the vinyl lettering to the wall. This step is top be repeated until all layers have been installed as desired.
So long as the marks on each sheet are aligned correctly as the vinyl lettering is installed, it will appear as if the color layers came from a single sheet of pre-masked transfer tape. This method of vinyl lettering installation is done for higher quality production purposes, and is the preferred method of professional installation team due to the more seamless end result.
Finally, remove all the small dots, if any remain, that were applied during installation.

Are the pre-masked transfer tape layers – for vinyl lettering designs with multiple colors – numbered?

– The individual layers are not numbered. One should make sure to place the layers in the correct order based on their quoted design pattern.

Why does vinyl lettering come in separate layers for designs with multiple colors?

– We utilise multiple transfer tape layers for multiple-color vinyl lettering in order to preserve the quality. As our vinyl lettering is cut from pre-colored material instead of printed on blank, placing multiple colors on a single pre-masked sheet of transfer tape could cause unwanted overlap and bubbling of the material during the production process.
The complexity of manufacturing designs with multiple colors requires separate layers of pre-masked tape in order to endure that the material is smooth and free of bubbles prior to the application. Furthermore, both small and large vinyl lettering designs are significantly easier to apply in multiple colors, layer by layer, in order to ensure no bubbling and a clean installation, rather than applying it all at once.

Do differences in design affect the pricing of vinyl lettering?

– Yes. Both the size and complexity of the quoted vinyl lettering design are a factor in pricing of the order. Simple fonts and graphics require less cutting and weeding time than more complex ones. However, while the price will vary, the difference isn’t significant.

Does choice of color affect the pricing of vinyl lettering?

– No. The colors we have listed in our offer all come at the same cost. However, ordering vinyl lettering in custom color, as per custom order, as well as ordering vinyl lettering in multiple colors will slightly increase the price.

Do the colors we have presented on our website match how they look in real life?

– When vinyl lettering is produced, color shades can vary from monitor to monitor. With standard signage we are able to offset this by producing vinyl lettering in custom color matching for a fifty USD charge.
Because we craft our vinyl lettering in pre-colored material instead of printing it in blank, we are unable to guarantee that the colors of the material will perfectly match the specific shade one is looking for. The colors one can see on screen – provided they use standard settings – are fairly close to the product one actually receives. However, we utilise a standard color set for vinyl and are happy to provide our customers with a list of shades we have in stock.

Can vinyl lettering be something other than letters?

– In addition to the small collection of clip art we have presented on our website, we currently do not offer any additional graphics or non-letter designs for vinyl lettering signage. However, if one is looking for something specific but do not see it presented on our website, we are still able to help. Do not hesitate to contact us and inquire further.

What is the estimated lifespan of vinyl lettering?

– Our vinyl lettering can last between eight and ten years with proper installation and care. The placement of the vinyl lettering, however, may affect its durability – inside vs. outside, climate, environment.

What is the default color of our vinyl lettering?

– Each roll of vinyl material we utilise to craft and cut vinyl lettering is individually manufactured in a different color. For the production of vinyl lettering we simply utilise machines to cut out the quoted design of the lettering. Therefore, unlike most of our other products which have a ‘default’ or ‘raw’ color before the printing occurs, our vinyl lettering is different and the finished product is the same color as the raw material.

Is the adhesive solution used for manufacturing of vinyl lettering toxic?

– No. There is no any danger or risk of toxicity in using our vinyl lettering.

What is pre-masked transfer tape?

– Pre-masked transfer tape, also known as ‘pre-masked transfer paper’ is material which is laid over vinyl lettering. Once the back liner has been removed, and vinyl lettering has been installed, peeling it away will leave the vinyl lettering in place of the desired surface.
It is important to note that complex vinyl lettering designs with multiple colors will not come on a single sheet of pre-masked transfer tape like simple one-color designs. In these cases, one will need to layer the colors individually on the desired surface in order for the final design to be put in place. One may refer to our detailed vinyl lettering installation manual we have provided below, where we explain the process for both complex and simple designs.

Does the vinyl lettering have glossy or matte finish?

– Our vinyl lettering is manufactured with a moderate glossy finish due to the nature of material utilized (vinyl).

Does our vinyl lettering have a laminate over top?

– No, our vinyl lettering does not have laminate on its external side. Our vinyl lettering is professionally crafted to last between eight and ten years, indoors or outdoors, without any laminate use. We manufacture them with ultraviolet-protected material to ensure a long lifespan.

What is stroke width and why should one care?

– Stroke width refers to the width of any given letter in the quoted vinyl lettering design. Extremely narrow letters, or narrow parts of letters, may prove problematic when printing and weeding out the vinyl lettering product. Therefore, any custom design one wishes to quote for their vinyl lettering order should avoid of extremely narrow fonts. For this reason, custom fonts which we haven’t listed on our website should be sent to us so we can accurately determine our ability to produce them.

How is the height of vinyl lettering measured?

– The size of vinyl lettering is calculated by multiplying the width of the design with the height. The height is determined by the highest point of any given letter to the lowest point of any given letter. As an example, ‘testing’ would be measured from the top of the capital ‘T’ to the bottom of the ‘g’.

What is weeding or picking?

– Weeding, also known as ‘picking’, is part of vinyl lettering production process in which our staff ‘weeds’ or ‘picks’ out the portions of the vinyl lettering which are not part of the actual design. As an example, the middle portions of a ‘D’ or ‘B’ letters would need to be taken out in order for the design to look like actual letters instead of two solid shapes. This manual process is unavoidable and can impact the pricing for complicated custom designs which require a lot of weeding.

Usage

Is our vinyl lettering reusable?

– Our vinyl lettering can be removed at any point without any issues. It is, however, worth noting that our vinyl lettering is semi-permanent and not repositionable. Once it has been installed, our vinyl lettering can be removed, but not reinstalled.

What surfaces does our vinyl lettering best adhere to? Are there any restrictions?

– Generally speaking, the main principle behind vinyl lettering usage is that it will work on any smooth, non-porous surface. Therefore, surfaces such as tile, metal, painted drywall, painted wood, and plastic are perfectly suitable surfaces to apply vinyl lettering to.
Our vinyl lettering does not adhere well to porous surfaces. As an example, untreated and rough wood will not work, while treated and painted wool most likely will. Specific surfaces our vinyl lettering will most certainly fail to properly adhere to include brick, heavily textured surfaces, cinder block, paneling, stucco, some types of wallpaper, unfinished wood, and concrete.

Can our vinyl lettering be used on cars, boats, trucks, etc.? Can it be installed on such thing without damaging the paint?

– Absolutely! As long as the aforementioned requirements are met, our vinyl lettering is applicable to any type of surface, indoors or outdoors. This does include, cars, trucks, and boats. Our vinyl lettering will not damage the paint of the vehicle as long as the removal is done carefully and correctly.

Can our vinyl lettering be used on tinted windows?

– Yes, our vinyl lettering can be used on tainted windows. The caveat, however, is that the signage should be specifically designed with this purpose in mind. It is our recommendation that lighter colors be used for this purpose in order to ensure maximum visibility of the sign due to contrast. Dark colors on dark or tinted windows or surfaces will not be very visible, if at all.
Additionally, the installation of vinyl lettering on tinted windows should always be done on the side of the window one wishes to present. We advise against attempting to install vinyl lettering on a window in such a way that looking through the glass would be required to see the signage.

Can our vinyl lettering be used outside?

– Absolutely! Our vinyl lettering is suitable for both indoor and outdoor installation. Climate, installation, care and maintenance will affect the lifespan of vinyl lettering, but they are certain to last between eight and ten years.

– Will our vinyl lettering ruin painted walls, or wallpaper?

– Our vinyl lettering are designed and manufactured to prevent damaging wall paint as long as they are installed. The only damage to wall paint that may come from using our vinyl lettering would be caused by using a sharp tool when attempting to peel it away, and cheeping or peeling the paint itself/
Nevertheless, with or without sharp tools, we do recommend that vinyl lettering is removed with utmost care in order to ensure no damage is brought upon any underlying paint.
This questions is a little harder to answer in regards to wallpapers, as there are too many variants. Our vinyl lettering will work perfectly will some, and not so much with others. If the wallpaper is smooth and non-porous it is more likely that our vinyl lettering will adhere to it well. However, if one is still unsure, one may contact us directly and send us a sample for estimate. We also offer free samples of vinyl lettering as long as the customer agrees to pay for the shipping.
Our vinyl lettering does not work well with textured wallpapers.
Assuming our vinyl lettering adheres well to a wallpaper, the removal should not cause any damage unless a sharp tool is used and wallpaper is cheeped or scraped in the process.

Can our vinyl lettering be applied to wet or new paint?

– Our vinyl lettering should not be installed on any surface that has been painted very recently. Painted surfaces should be cured properly and allowed to dry for two to three weeks before vinyl lettering is applied. Attempting to install vinyl lettering prior to that increases the risk of paint being damaged.

What are the restrictions on types of paint vinyl lettering can be applied to?

– Our vinyl lettering works best with semi-gloss and glossy paints. Generally speaking, latex and oil-based paints work really well. This covers most homes and businesses. Alternatively, faux, flat, satin, magnetic, suede, and sand paints do not work well with our vinyl lettering.

How is our vinyl lettering? What it has been applied for a long period of time?

– Our vinyl lettering can simply be peeled away just like any other sticker. It is our recommendation that it is peeled away slowly and carefully in order to avoid damage to the wall paint, or wallpaper. Our vinyl lettering may leave behind some residual adhesive, which can easily be removed with a very mild cleaner mixture and some light scrubbing. Sometimes, a sharp tool may be necessary to remove vinyl lettering that has been installed for extended periods of time. We advise that this is also done extremely carefully as to avoid damaging the background surface.

What are the most common uses for vinyl lettering?

– The most common uses for vinyl lettering can be broken down into two main categories – home and business.
Businesses use them to advertise store hours, sales, and promotions, among other things. Likewise, office establishments use vinyl lettering for feature décor, motivational quotes, room numbering, and more. Fleet cars may also use vinyl lettering to feature a variety of lettering, including registration numbers, contact information, website, and business name.
Vinyl lettering is also used for home décor – as quotes, house rules, chores, welcomes, etc. – as well as for soliciting, security warnings, and more.

How opaque is vinyl lettering?

– Our vinyl lettering is quite opaque, but it is also thin enough to allow some light to pass through it when it is applied to windows. The darker the color the more opaque it tends to be.

Can one apply vinyl lettering to the inside of a window and have it visible from the outside?

– Absolutely. Our vinyl lettering can be created to be visible outside with internal window placement. This a specialized design, however, and one should select ‘inside glass’ option when placing their order. 

Can our vinyl lettering be used in humid environments?

– Generally speaking, our vinyl lettering can easily be used in humid locations, such as bathrooms, and climates. The only exception to this is that the surface which vinyl lettering is applied to ought to be dry for the installation, otherwise the signage may not adhere properly. Extremely humid locations may somewhat reduce the lifespan of vinyl lettering, but it should last years with proper care.

Can vinyl lettering be stored for future use?

– Our vinyl lettering can be stored for a short period of time – between one and two months – but we advise that it is installed as soon as possible in order for the adhesive solution to work its best when applied.

Installation and Care

Is our vinyl lettering easy to install?

– Our vinyl lettering does not require professional assistance for installation. Although, when it comes to larger designs, some help may be necessary in order to prevent the material from prematurely sticking to the surface or itself.
Complex designs with multiple colors will require that the vinyl lettering is placed on the desired surface in layers. We have outlined this prices below.
The steps to installing vinyl lettering have been presented below. We advise reading all the steps carefully before staring the application. The steps we have outlined below should be followed in order to ensure proper application.
– The surface which the vinyl lettering is to be applied to should be cleaned with non-abrasive rag and a very mild cleaner mixture, or slightly soapy water.
– The surface should be left to fully air dry prior to the application.
– The area to which vinyl lettering is to be applied to should be measured in advance.
– The area to which vinyl lettering is to be applied to should be marked prior to installation.
– Without removing the backing of the vinyl lettering or the transfer tape – which is placed on top of the vinyl lettering -, one should use masking or painter’s tape, or any other suitable tape, to affix the top edge of pre-masked vinyl lettering to the previously marked area.

* For vinyl lettering designs with multiple colors, two vinyl lettering dots, one in the upper left corner and one in the bottom right corner, will be included with the product on each layer in order to facilitate correctly lining up  each layer on the desired surface.

– The backing of the vinyl lettering should be carefully peeled away, stating from the top. Not all backing should be peeled away. Initially, only a thin horizontal stretch of the backing should be peeled. Transfer tape and vinyl lettering, both of which have their adhesive side exposed at this step of the process, should be prevented from touching the wall.
– While holding the adhesive sides of transfer tape and vinyl lettering away from the wall, a hand or another flat surface, such as credit card or squeegee, should be used to evenly and firmly press the adhesive backing of the vinyl lettering and transfer tape to the surface. This should be done top to bottom, across the horizontal stretch which has been exposed in the previous step.
– The backing is to be peeled away little by little while the lettering is evenly and firmly pressed, with transfer tape on top of it, onto the surface.
– Once the vinyl lettering has fully been applied to the surface, the transfer tape is to be carefully removed.

* For complex designs with multiple colors, once the first layer has been applied to the surface, including the dots in the upper left and bottom right corners, the next layer should  be placed by aligning the dots of the second layer with the first layer. It is important to note that the layers are not labeled. The application is to be continued by utilizing the dots on the wall and repeating the steps outlined above.

– The vinyl lettering has now been installed on the designated surface.
– Any bubbles that remain are to be removed, as well as any non-permanent markings.

* For complex designs with multiple colors, the vinyl dots should also be removed at the end of the installation process. They are to be carefully peeled away from the wall with fingernails or a sharp tool. Care should be taken to avoid scratching away the paint, or damaging the vinyl lettering.

Additional Helpful Tips and Hints

– Larger vinyl lettering designs can be applied piece by piece by cutting the order between words. One should make sure that the backing and the transfer tape are not removed, and simply cut in between words after installing it to the designated surface with masking tape.
This allows for the steps six and eight to be repeated by doing smaller portions of the entire design, while still keeping it aligned and positioned correctly as per the provided markings. For very large designs, this should be done not only between words, but as often as possible, if not for every individual letter, if necessary.
Alternatively, the middle instead of the top hinge should be used, with the masking of other suitable tape. Utilising the middle hinge instead of the top hinge just means that the tape will run vertical instead of horizontal. This is especially effective for longer words, or designs which are wider than they are tall.

What does one need to install vinyl lettering?

– The only item that is essential for vinyl lettering installation process aside from the measuring tape is the masking tape. This allows vinyl lettering to be affixed in the proper location and installed exactly where it should be.
If available, a flat surface tool – such as a squeegee – would be advantageous. However, using one’s hand, a credit card, or even a hardcover book can do just fine in most cases.
Additionally, a level may help ensure that the vinyl lettering is installed evenly rather than crooked as a result of a failed eyeball test. Lastly, if the surface is extremely dirty, we advise using a spray bottle and a rag, or simply a damp rag, to clean the designated surface prior to vinyl lettering application.

Do we provide any tools for application?

– Currently, we only offer squeegees for a very small additional cost to aid in the installation process. Most hardware and office supply stores will be able to provide anything else one may have in mind.

Do we provide installation manual when shipping our products?

– Absolutely. Instructions are printed, packaged, and sent along with the vinyl lettering. The physical copy of the instructions also contains the link that refers to this page for more details.

What happens if bubbles appear when vinyl lettering is installed?

– If the vinyl lettering has been installed properly, no bubbles should appear. If any small bubbles do appear during the installation process, that portion of the vinyl lettering should simply be lifted and reapplied. Large bubbles which carry the risk of tearing the lettering or rendering it unusable can be punctured with a pin or a needle. Air can then be removed by carefully pressing against the lettering by hand, or with a flat object. We advise extreme care when removing large bubbles in order to avoid wrinkling of the material.