Applying Boat Decals: A Step-By-Step Guide

Boat decals are a great way to add some visual excitement to your vessel. However, applying them can be a meticulous process. In this guide, we will walk you through the steps of installing boat decals like a professional, ensuring a smooth and flawless finish. From preparing the boat's surface to positioning and adhering the decals, we will cover everything you need to know for a successful application. So, whether you're a boat owner looking to personalize your craft or a marine enthusiast wanting to enhance your boat's appearance, read on to discover the best practices for applying boat decals.

Cleaning the boat surface

To clean the boat surface before applying a decal, it is recommended to wash the area with soap and water to remove any dirt, grime, or residue. This initial wash is important to get rid of any salt or scum that has accumulated on the boat's surface. After rinsing the area with water, dry it with a clean towel to prevent water spots.

Next, use a solvent to ensure the surface is free from any remaining wax, grease, or oil. A solution of 70% isopropyl alcohol is a good option, which should be sprayed across the entire area and then wiped down with a clean microfiber towel. This step will ensure that the decal adheres properly to the boat's surface.

It is also important to note that the boat surface should be completely dry before applying the decal. Choose a calm, windless day with air temperatures above 65 degrees Fahrenheit for optimal conditions.

Additionally, if you are removing old decals or paint, you may need to use a heat gun or hair dryer to soften the adhesive, and then scrape it off with a razor blade or plastic scraper. You can also use a product containing solvents specifically designed for removing adhesive residue and vinyl particles. After removing the old decals, clean the surface with soap and water to ensure no adhesives remain.

Using soapy water

Preparation:

Before you begin, gather your supplies: a spray bottle with a mixture of water and a few drops of dish soap, masking tape with medium tack, a squeegee or plastic card, a ruler or pencil, and your custom decal. It is also recommended to clean the surface of your boat with soapy water and a rag to remove any contaminants, and then use alcohol (isopropanol) to finish.

Installation:

• Use a ruler to draw a straight line that is level on the boat, which will be the "top line" or "base line" of your decal.
• Secure the decal in position with masking tape and ensure you are happy with its location and level.
• Mark the position of the decal on the boat, then remove the sticker and place it on a rigid, flat, and clean surface.
• Peel back the backing paper from the decal and spray the soapy water solution onto the adhesive side.
• Place the decal back onto the marked position on the boat. The soapy water may cause the decal to slide, allowing for easy repositioning if needed.
• Using a squeegee, start to apply the decal with firm pressure. Begin from the centre and work the soapy water outwards towards the edges, going from centre to left, then centre to right. Ensure you press out all the water and air to avoid bubbles.
• Once applied, leave the application tape on the decal for about 30 minutes to an hour in direct sunlight to dry.
• After the decal has dried, carefully remove the application tape. If the decal starts to peel up, let it dry for a little longer.
• Finally, wipe off any remaining marks, and your decal is now installed!

Tips:

• It is recommended to choose a calm, windless day with air temperatures above 65 degrees Fahrenheit to apply the decal.
• For complex or large decals, consider using application fluid or water without soap for better control.
• If you are using transfer tape, leave it on for a while until it dries before removing it.

Finding the decal centre

Finding the centre of your decal is a crucial step in ensuring your boat decal is applied evenly and accurately. Here is a step-by-step guide to finding the decal centre:

Firstly, use a tape measure or yardstick to find the vertical centre of the area where you want to apply the decal. Mark this spot with a grease pencil above the application area. This first mark will be your reference point for the rest of the process. It is important to note that the vinyl graphic you ordered will be sandwiched between backing paper and semi-transparent transfer paper.

Next, you will need to find the centre of the decal itself. To do this, lightly fold the decal in half lengthwise and make a crease. This crease will indicate the vertical centre of the decal. Now, you can align this crease with the mark you made on the hull. This will give you a rough idea of the decal's position.

At this stage, you can use small pieces of masking tape to roughly position the decal. This will help you visualise the final placement and make any necessary adjustments before securing the decal in place. Make sure the decal is aligned symmetrically with the centre crease you created.

Once you are happy with the positioning, it is time to secure the decal in place. Run a long piece of masking tape across the top edge of the decal's paper carrier, creating a temporary "hinge". This will hold the top of the decal in place while you work on the rest of it.

Now that you have found the centre and secured the top, you can proceed to the next steps of applying your boat decal with confidence in its positioning.

Positioning the graphic

Firstly, it is important to identify the desired position for your decal. Consider the natural build of your boat and how the decal will align with it. Hold the decal up to the hull to see where it looks best and determine if you want to line it up with any specific reference lines, such as the rub rail underside. This step will help you visualise the final result and ensure you are happy with the placement before proceeding.

Once you have found the ideal spot, use a tape measure or yardstick to find the vertical centre of the application area. Mark this spot with a grease pencil above the area. This marking will serve as a reference point for aligning your decal. If your decal has individual letters or elements, consider cutting between them with scissors to make the process more manageable.

Now, it's time to prepare the decal for positioning. Your vinyl graphic will likely be sandwiched between backing paper and semi-transparent transfer paper. Lightly fold it in half lengthwise to find the vertical centre, indicated by the crease. Align this crease with the mark you made on the hull to roughly position the decal. You can use small pieces of masking tape to temporarily secure it in place.

The next step is to align the top of the decal with your chosen horizontal reference line. This could be the rub rail underside or another suitable line. By doing this, you will create pleasing and consistent spacing between the reference line and the top of the graphic from front to back. Once you are satisfied with the positioning, secure the decal in place with a long piece of masking tape across the top edge. This will act as a temporary "hinge".

Finally, it is time to secure the decal in place. Peel away the backing paper from the top, allowing the decal to adhere as you pull down. If any wrinkles form, quickly remove the transfer paper and smooth it back down. Use a flexible plastic squeegee to press out any air bubbles, working firmly from the centre outward.

By following these steps, you will be able to position your boat graphic accurately and securely, ensuring a professional and visually appealing result.

Removing the transfer paper

Step 1: Prepare the Boat Surface

Before removing the transfer paper, ensure that the boat surface is clean and dry. Use a mild soap and water solution to wash away any salt, scum, or residue. Rinse the area thoroughly and dry it with a clean cloth to prevent water spots.

Step 2: Find the Center of the Decal

Use a tape measure or yardstick to locate the vertical center of the decal's application area. Mark this spot with a grease pencil. The decal should be sandwiched between backing paper and semi-transparent transfer paper. Fold the decal lengthwise to create a crease, indicating the vertical center. Align this crease with the mark on the hull, and use small pieces of masking tape to roughly position the decal.

Step 3: Position the Decal

Align the top of the decal, not the paper, with a horizontal reference line, such as the rub rail underside. This creates consistent spacing between the reference line and the top of the decal. Once you're satisfied with the positioning, secure the decal with a long piece of masking tape across the top edge, acting as a temporary hinge.

Step 4: Peel Away the Backing Paper

Using scissors, carefully cut between individual letters or elements to make this process more manageable. You can also leave the decal intact and peel away the backing paper from the top. As you pull down on the backing, use a flexible plastic squeegee to smooth out any air bubbles, working firmly from the center outward.

Step 5: Start Removing the Transfer Paper

Remove the strip of masking tape at the top, then carefully peel off the transfer paper. Start at the upper left corner, pulling gently at a 45-degree downward angle, almost parallel to the hull surface. Be cautious, as the paper might tear. If it does, simply resume peeling from the upper left corner.

Step 6: Remove Remaining Backing Paper

With the majority of the transfer paper removed, carefully peel away any remaining backing paper from the centers of letters, such as D, O, or P. For intricate areas, an X-Acto knife can help initiate the peeling process.

Step 7: Seal the Decal (Optional)

Using a Seal-It-Pen along the edges of the decal can help prevent the vinyl from peeling or lifting. Allow the colorless adhesive to dry for at least 15 minutes, but ideally, wait 48 hours for the adhesive to fully cure before taking the boat out on the water again.

Remember to work slowly and carefully during the process, as rushing may result in wrinkles or tears in the decal. Taking your time will ensure a smooth and precise application.

Frequently asked questions