How to Apply Custom Decals: A Step-by-Step Guide for Walls, Car Windows & More

If you’ve just received your kiss cut custom decal for a wall, car window, shopfront window, or another smooth surface - exciting! Applying your decal properly will help it last longer, look professional, and stick perfectly. Whether it’s your logo, business name, or a decorative vinyl design, this guide will help you achieve a flawless finish.

Below, we break down how to apply kiss cut decals using transfer tape so you can feel confident every step of the way.

✅ What You’ll Need

Before you start, make sure you have:

• Your vinyl decal with transfer tape attached

• A clean cloth or paper towel

• Glass cleaner or rubbing alcohol (for windows)

• A squeegee, credit card, or similar tool

🚗 Where Can You Apply Decals?

Our decals are designed for smooth, flat surfaces, including:

• Car windows (external or internal glass)

• Shopfront or home windows

• Painted walls (ensure the paint is fully cured)

• Mirrors, laptops, plinths, display boards

Tip: Our car window decals are easy to apply be sure to not block your rear vision!

✨ How to Apply a Decal Using Transfer Tape

1️⃣ Clean and Prep Your Surface

• Make sure the surface is clean, dry, and dust-free.

• For glass (car windows, shopfronts): use glass cleaner or rubbing alcohol.

• For painted walls: wipe down gently with a clean, damp cloth and allow to dry completely.

2️⃣ Check Your Decal + Transfer Tape

• Lay your decal flat with the transfer tape facing down.

• Firmly rub over the transfer tape with a squeegee or credit card to ensure the transfer tape sticks well to the decal.

3️⃣ Slowly Peel Away the Backing Paper

• Ensure the backing paper is on top ready to peel away.

• Carefully peel the backing paper away at a sharp angle, making sure the decal stays attached to the clear transfer tape.

• If any part of the decal lifts with the backing, stop, press it back down, and rub over with your hands or card.

4️⃣ Position and Apply the Decal

• Line up your decal where you want it - take your time to get the position right!

• Stick the decal (still attached to the transfer tape) onto the surface, starting from the center and smoothing outward to remove air bubbles.

5️⃣ Smooth It Down

• Firmly rub over the decal using your squeegee or card, working from the middle outward to help the adhesive bond well.

6️⃣ Remove the Transfer Tape

• Slowly peel the transfer tape back on itself at a sharp angle.

• If any part of the decal lifts, press it back down and smooth over again.

📝 Final Tips for Success

✅ Take your time - slow and steady gives the best result!
✅ Avoid washing or getting the decal wet for 24 hours after applying (especially for car decals or shopfront decals).
✅ If your decal has small or intricate parts, peel the backing and transfer tape slowly to avoid tearing or stretching.

Why Choose Our Custom Vinyl Decals?

At Backdrop Collective, we print all decals in-house in Melbourne. Our decals are:

• Made from high-quality, durable vinyl

• Easy to apply and remove without damage (when instructions are followed!)

• Fully customisable with your logo, branding, or design

• Suitable for trade show displays, shopfront windows, vehicle signage, and more