1. Clean the sign surface meticulously. Be sure to remove all wax, grease, and other residues.
2. For a wet application, wet the substrate.
3. Then peel off the backing of the graphic and if desired, wet the adhesive side.
4. Place and align the graphic on the surface.
5. Firmly squeegee the graphic to remove the excess fluid. Start at the center of the graphic and work out in all directions.
6. After 2-3 minutes, saturate the graphics cover tape (most have one) with application fluid and remove the tape.
7. Using the application fluid, clean any leftover tape residue.
8. Dry the surface with a paper towel.

But before you begin applying vinyl to any substrate, you should understand the materials you are working with. And you should be aware of products that will ease the application process.

Vinyl graphics typically come in three different levels of quality: economy grade, intermediate grade, and premium cast grade. And they are made of PVC or polyester.

Some have an adhesive that is aggressive while others are can be re-positioned.

The application tape comes in a several different levels of adhesion and paperweight. The tapes must be stored carefully, away from sunlight and air. If they are not stored properly, you will not be able to depend on their level of adhesion.

The required condition of the substrate--whether it needs to be wet or dry--will vary among the different types of vinyl graphics and your skill level. Furthermore, some surface materials may not be compatible with the type of letter you have in stock. It is best to follow the manufacture's recommendations.

Most important, the substrate must be thoroughly cleaned before applying the vinyl. Choose your cleaning materials carefully. As indicated earlier, dish soaps and many household cleaners will leave unwanted films. Also, avoid using cloth towels as they are washed with residual detergents and commercial paper towels because they are often treated with residual chemicals to make them lint free. You are best off using "the quicker picker upper" or other quality common kitchen towels.

Mother Nature can also disrupt the application process. Typically, you want to apply vinyl graphics in moderate weather conditions with the temperature ranging from 45ºF to 80ºF. So unless you have an indoor shop, applying vinyl during the winter and summer months is not an easy task.

Yet it can be done. The vinyl application fluid that helped you clean the substrate and lubricate the substrate for easier positioning can help you with this problem. It eases the spreading of the adhesive and stimulates the bonding of pressure sensitive vinyl by softening the skin that is formed when vinyl adhesion dries. These application fluids are heaven-sent. They keep the dream from being a nightmare.