Shop Window Decal Fitting Instructions

Thank you for choosing 38k Vinyl Graphics. Follow this guide for a smooth, professional window display.

If you need help at any stage, contact us and we’ll be happy to assist.

🧰 What you’ll need

  • Squeegee or stiff plastic card
  • Clean, lint-free cloth
  • Water only — no sprays or soap
  • Masking tape
  • An extra pair of hands for larger decals

📍 Inside or outside application?

  • The design reads normally: apply it to the outside of the glass.
  • The design looks reversed: apply it to the inside of the glass. It is reverse cut so it reads correctly from outside.

STEP 1️⃣ — Prepare the surface

Clean the glass with water only, even if it looks clean. Dry it thoroughly with a lint-free cloth.

⚠️ Do not use sprays, soaps or glass-cleaning products.

STEP 2️⃣ — Prepare the decal

Lay the decal flat and firmly squeegee over the clear application tape. This helps the vinyl bond properly to the tape before fitting.

If the decal arrived rolled, minor air marks between the clear tape and backing paper are normal and will not affect the vinyl.

STEP 3️⃣ — Position the decal

  1. Hold the decal in position against the glass.
  2. Secure it temporarily with masking tape.
  3. Step back and check its alignment.

Large designs are easier to position with assistance.

STEP 4️⃣ — Apply the decal

Each decal has three layers:

  • Clear application tape: the top layer, removed at the end.
  • Vinyl design: the middle layer, which remains on the glass.
  • Backing paper: the bottom layer, removed before application.

Small decals

  1. Remove the backing paper, leaving the vinyl on the clear application tape.
  2. Apply one edge to the glass first, then slowly lower the rest.
  3. Squeegee firmly using smooth, even strokes.

Large decals — hinge method

  1. Secure the decal in position with masking tape along one long edge.
  2. Flip the decal back over the taped hinge.
  3. Carefully remove the backing paper.
  4. Slowly lower the decal onto the glass while squeegeeing firmly.

Very large decals — centre hinge method

  1. Secure masking tape down the centre of the decal, across its shortest side.
  2. Peel the backing paper from one half up to the hinge and cut away the loose paper.
  3. Lower that half onto the glass while squeegeeing firmly.
  4. Remove the centre tape and repeat for the other half.

This halves the working size and improves control.

STEP 5️⃣ — Remove the application tape

  1. Squeegee firmly over the complete decal again.
  2. Wait a few minutes.
  3. Slowly peel the clear tape back at a 180° angle, folded back over itself.

Do not pull the tape outward, as this can lift the vinyl. If any section lifts, press it down firmly and squeegee it again before continuing.

✅ Final check

Run your thumb over all lettering, small details and edges to ensure full adhesion. This helps prevent lifting and water ingress.

🎉 You’re done!

Stand back and enjoy your finished window display.