Vinyl wrap is a popular method to give your car, truck, or motorcycle a fresh look. However, it requires the right tools and expertise to achieve a successful and professional-looking wrap. This blog will discuss the five essential vinyl wrap tools to ensure a smooth and easy wrap process.
Squeegee
Squeegees come with different types of felts. Hard felts are for rough and uneven surfaces, soft felts are for glossy surfaces, and medium felts are for everything in between. Choosing the right felt for your squeegee can make a significant difference in the outcome of your vinyl wrap.
The Metro ProGlide Squeegee is excellent for vinyl wrap professionals and beginners. It is durable, versatile, and easy to use, and the ProGlide ensures the vinyl is not scratched or damaged during application.
Gloves:
Vinyl gloves are made of PVC (polyvinyl chloride) and are commonly used in the vinyl wrap industry to protect the vinyl from oil, dirt, and fingerprints during wrapping. Gloves are essential to keep the vinyl clean and free from oil and dirt, which can affect the adhesive properties of the vinyl. It also protects the vinyl from fingerprints, which can be challenging to remove once they are on it. Always use clean gloves and change them frequently to avoid any contamination. Do not use latex gloves, which can leave residue on the vinyl.
The Elite Wrappers Wrap Glove by WrapGlove is an excellent choice for vinyl wrap installers. It is made of high-quality materials, which makes it durable and long-lasting. It also has a great fit and provides excellent grip, which makes easier to glide and prevent scratches/swirling.
Heat gun
A heat gun is a tool that produces hot air and is commonly used in the vinyl wrap industry to help the vinyl conform to the vehicle's surface and remove any wrinkles or bubbles. Always keep the heat gun moving to avoid overheating the vinyl, which can cause it to shrink or deform. Also, be careful not to burn or damage the vinyl with the heat gun.
Both experienced users and newcomers to vinyl wrapping might consider the Wagner Furno 500 Heat Gun. It is portable, simple to operate, and incorporates temperature and airflow controls. It is adaptable for many vinyl wrap applications.
Cutting Blade
Another excellent tool for vinyl wrap installation is the cutting blade. This tool cuts the vinyl wrap to the desired size and shape. It would be easier to achieve a precise cut with a 30° cutting blade.
Always use a sharp blade when using a cutting blade. A dull knife can cause the vinyl to tear or leave jagged edges. The proper pressure must be used to prevent cutting too deeply into the vinyl's surface and scoring the paint.
The Olfa 9mm Stainless Steel Snap-Off is a high-quality cutting blade for vinyl wrap installation. It features a stainless steel blade that is durable and long-lasting, as well as an auto-lock mechanism that keeps the blade securely in place during use. The snap-off design lets you quickly and safely snap off the dull blade segments to reveal a sharp, new cutting edge.
Knifeless Tape
Knifeless tape is another important tool for vinyl wrap installation. This tape creates precise and clean cuts without damaging the underlying surface. Different Knifeless tapes are available, but the most popular is the Finish Line tape, designed to create precise and clean cuts on materials such as vinyl wrap. The tape is applied along the cutting line and pulled tight, giving a seamless look without having a blade to the vehicle.
The 3M knifeless tapes are a popular, high-quality cutting tape option for installing the vinyl wrap. These tapes are designed to create precise and clean cuts without damaging the underlying surface. They come in various styles to suit different applications and are easy to use, even for beginners.
Use These Tools For Success!
Vinyl wrap installation requires various tools to achieve a professional-looking finish. The five tools we have covered in this article – the squeegee, gloves, heat gun, cutting blade, and knifeless tape- are vital to the installation process. By using high-quality tools such as those recommended in this article, you can ensure a clean and precise installation that will last years.
If you're new to vinyl wrapping, getting some hands-on training is important to learn the proper techniques and avoid costly mistakes. One great resource for learning is Elitewrappers.com, which offers car wrap classes for all skill levels. These classes provide valuable knowledge and experience that can help you become a better vinyl wrapper. By signing up for these classes, you can access expert instructors and the latest vinyl wrap tools and techniques. Elite Wrappers can help you take your skills to the next level.
FAQ:
Q: What are some common mistakes to avoid when using vinyl wrap tools?
A: One common mistake is not cleaning the surface before applying the vinyl wrap. Another mistake is using too much heat, which can cause the vinyl to stretch or shrink. It's also important to use the right amount of pressure when using the squeegee to avoid damaging the vinyl.
Q: Are vinyl gloves necessary when using vinyl wrap tools?
A: Vinyl gloves are recommended when using vinyl wrap tools to protect your hands and prevent oils from your skin from getting onto the vinyl.
Q: Can I use any cutting blade for a vinyl wrap?
A: Different angles for different material applications, for wrapping we always recommend a 30° blade
Q: Can vinyl wrap be removed easily?
A: If done correctly, vinyl wrap can be removed easily without damaging the surface. Heat to loosen the adhesive, and slowly peel the vinyl off at a 45° angle.