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Honestly, we’re not here to tell you why you should have your vehicle wrapped. You’re reading this because you’ve already decided that outfitting your van or car or bus with vehicle graphics is the way to go. No, you’re here because you want to know more about the processes that companies such as ADI use to customize your ride. And you want to make sure that your chosen printer has the expertise and capabilities to complete your vehicle wrapping project.

So how exactly does a full-service graphic design and large format printing company work on your vehicle and transform it into a one-of-a-kind work of art on wheels?

We’ve summarized the most important points below.

Preparation

Let’s leave the design phase for now and focus on the installation process. First is the prep stage, where your license plate is removed and the parts that won’t be wrapped are covered with masking tape and paper. This is also where the installers of your vehicle graphics would clean the surfaces to be wrapped to ensure that the vinyl is able to stick properly.

Application

Now that the vehicle wrapping pros have prepped your ride, it’s time to apply your vehicle graphics. On hand would be tools of the trade including a squeegee, sharp knife or scalpel, heat gun, and so on. Most installers usually start at the back, applying the wrap and then using the squeegee to press out bubbles for a smooth finish. The whole process may take about an hour or so, as the installers spend a bit of time using the heat gun to stretch the vinyl around the corners.

Finishing

Before a vehicle graphics project is deemed as complete, the wrapping experts would need to check if there are bubbles, wrinkles, tears, or raised areas that they may have missed. If such imperfections are found, the installers would have to use a pin to let the air out and then a squeegee again to smooth out the problem areas. After that quality check, the vehicle wrappers would then use a scalpel to trim out any excess vinyl. They would have to do this very carefully to avoid cutting or damaging the paint job below the wrap. You will then be advised to let your vehicle sit for about a day to ensure that your vehicle graphics have fully adhered to the surface.

*Want to know more about our vehicle wrapping services? Feel free to browse our site or fill out our online Request a Quote form for a no obligation price quote.