Taking the time to do a good job is the easy part. Knowing the tricks that make up the anatomy of a great wrap may not be as clear.

From graphic design, to vehicle preparation, to knowing the necessary tools to have on hand there is knowledge to gain that will make every applicator better. If we can share that knowledge we will increase the credibility of the application craft, and in turn ensure that all vehicle wraps are works of art.

1. Graphics Design and Production

To design a great wrap it is extremely important for the designer to have a good understanding of the vehicle wrap process. By no means do they need to be an expert, but basic fundamentals are necessary to the success of the completed wrap.

There are several obstacles involved with a good application that the designer needs to be aware of:

Vehicle Shape:

• The design of the graphics should complement the body lines of the vehicle.
• The designer should be familiar with the shapes and measurements of the vehicle in a three dimensional format before design starts.
• When there are very prominent, complex door handles or other recesses that require extra vinyl, have extra material printed.

Graphic Elements:

• Messaging should be the focal point of the design. Place all messaging in visible, unobstructed areas.
• Corners and adjoining side panels require particular attention in order to flow with the design.

Creation:

• The graphics need to be printed properly, with the correct amount of ink saturation.
• The graphics also need to be laminated properly allowing for adequate drying time, which is recommended at least 24 hours.

2. Vehicle Preparation

It is essential to have the vehicle prepared properly before beginning to apply the media. Every surface that will be wrapped should be cleaned with alcohol and allowed dry completely. Other preparation factors that can make a great wrap include:

Removal of Parts:

It may be easy to cut around some parts but a good wrap can become a great wrap by removing them prior to application. The time taken to remove these items can easily be made up during installation if you keep the parts well organized. Recommended Part Removal:

• Wipers
• Lights
• Antennas
• Washer Nozzles
• Side Mirrors
• License Plates

Testing Fitting the Graphics:

• All panels should be test fitted before starting to check for proper design alignment and to verify all components.

3. Tools

When you are ready to apply, another key component to a great wrap is having the right tools. While there are many obvious items needed, like multiple squeegees, razor knife, bubble releaser, and heat guns, there are several others that are becoming more popular.

Emblem Remover:

• A very small pry bar with felt on one side can be useful to remove all adhesive backed emblems without harming the vehicle.

Magnets:

• Two or three small tape wrapped magnets will allow for the graphics to be aligned properly without having to continuously pull tape, and will not damage the painted surface.

Grease Pencils:

• Can be used for registering adjoining graphics by putting hash marks along edges.

Self-Igniting Torch:

• When used properly, a propane torch can add a great deal of heat very quickly allowing for an easier more fluid application.

4. Trimming Techniques

There are several small cutting techniques that will facilitate a successful wrap. Proper trimming not only helps the finished product look great, but also helps it survive. Even though most people will never see the trimmed edges it is important that they are treated equal to the rest of the graphic.

Glass Trimming:

• When trimming window perforation on glass it is very important to keep the blade even to the glass edge because most vehicle glass has a beveled and frosted edge that adhesive will not stick to.

Tucking Body Edges:

• When trimming around door seams, the graphic can be trimmed right to the front edge as long as the media is not under stress, and not facing the front of the vehicle.
• If the surface is curved or is susceptible to weather/wind it should be tucked approximately a quarter inch around the edges.

Patching:

• For complex curved areas that prohibit the media from conforming, a patch should be printed of the area.
• Patches should be done prior to application of large areas whenever possible to create less resistance to lifting.