DeLand Sign and Design - Wall Lettering Application Instructions

HOW TO APPLY YOUR DECORATIVE WALL LETTERING

Hint: Your lettering strip is made up of 3 layers. The top semi-transparent layer (called the "transfer tape") must be securely adhered to the lettering underneath (middle layer) to easily remove the lettering from the stiff, waxy feeling, white backing paper (bottom layer).

With a straight-edge of some sort or level and a pencil, make two small reference marks at least 12 inches apart (as the width of your lettering permits). These marks will serve as your "level reference line" and will align with the bottom edge of your letters. If you don't want to write on your wall, two pieces of masking tape can be used to mark your reference line as well (Step 1).

Use two small pieces of masking tape to tack up your wall lettering until you position it according to your reference marks (Step 2). Then, apply one continuous piece of horizontal tape to create a "hinge" for your lettering (Step 3). If your piece is longer than 12" you may want to cut it up in sections to make the application a little more manageable, especially with very long lettering pieces (Step 4).

Gripping the lettering from the bottom, swing the strip up 180 degrees on the masking tape "hinge" you just created. When you're finished the strip should be upside down, flat against the wall with the white waxy backing paper facing you. Starting from the upper left corner separate the waxy backing paper from the transfer tape/lettering by peeling up and to your right while holding the transfer tape/lettering up with your other hand (Step 5).

Next, hold the bottom edge of the transfer tape taught with one hand keeping some slack away from wall as you use your applicator to squeegee downward with the opposite hand. Continue for each section (Step 6).

Remove the masking tape "hinge" and transfer tape starting on the left grip the corner of the transfer tape and begin peeling down at a 45 degree angle (Step 7). Watch carefully as you peel to make sure the letters stay adhered to the wall. If the transfer tape begins to pull a letter off, carefully press the letter and transfer tape back on the wall at that specific point. Apply additional pressure to strengthen the bond between the letter adhesive and the wall.

Your final task is to lightly tap/press the lettering (particularly the lettering edges) to the wall with your fingers (Step 8). Don't slide your fingers as this can cause the lettering to catch on your finger and begin to peel up. Let your fingers press and jump (not slide) from spot to spot. For walls with light to moderate texture use your hands and fingers instead of the applicator to press your lettering to the wall. The softer, more pliable surface of your fingers will cause the lettering to better follow and adhere to the contours of the textured wall.