Decal Installation Guide
Step-by-step instructions for applying Happy Endings vinyl decals and stickers to your car.
These steps are a guide only. If you are new to this, or the decal is large, we recommend professional installation. We cannot offer replacements or refunds for damage caused by improper installation or use.
Before You Start
- Keep it dry. Do not get the decal wet for at least 48 hours after installation so the adhesive can cure.
- Wiper blades. Avoid running wiper blades over the decal until it has fully cured.
- Temperature matters. Install between 50 and 77°F (10 to 25°C) for proper adhesion.
Tools You Will Need
- Clean microfiber cloths
- Rubbing alcohol
- Plastic squeegee (a cloth and your hand also work)
- Ruler or measuring tape and masking tape for positioning
- Optional: hair dryer to dry the surface, small pin for bubbles
Step 1: Clean the Surface
Thoroughly clean the area where the decal will go.
- Remove all dirt, grease, and residue.
- Wipe with rubbing alcohol and a clean microfiber cloth to remove waxes or protectants. Dish soap and hot water work too, but rinse thoroughly.
- Avoid glass cleaners. They often leave residue.
- Make sure the surface is completely dry before moving on. A hair dryer speeds this up, but let the surface cool.
Step 2: Prepare the Decal
Get your decal ready for application.
- Lay the decal face up on a flat, stable surface.
- Rub firmly across the decal with a squeegee (or a microfiber cloth and your hand) to press the transfer tape onto the vinyl.
- Use moderate pressure so you do not damage the tape.
Step 3: Position Your Decal (Optional)
Measure and mark the placement if you want to be precise.
- Use a ruler to find the exact spot.
- Lightly secure the decal with masking tape so it cannot shift.
- Double check your measurements before you continue.
Step 4: Separate the Backing
Carefully peel the decal from its paper backing.
- Slowly peel the paper backing away.
- If the decal sticks to the backing, gently press it back down and rub that area again (see Step 2).
- You want the transfer tape to lift the entire decal in one piece. Take your time.
- Peeling at a 45 degree angle usually works best.
Step 5: Apply Your Decal
Apply the decal to your prepared surface.
- Place the decal onto the surface.
- Starting from the center and working outward, firmly press the decal down with your squeegee or cloth.
- Push any air bubbles toward the edges. Larger bubbles can be released later with a small pin.
- Wait 10 to 15 minutes so the decal adheres well.
- Do not press too hard. Use your fingers for detailed areas.
Step 6: Remove the Transfer Tape
Carefully peel off the top transfer tape.
- Slowly peel the transfer tape off at a shallow 45 degree angle.
- If any part of the decal lifts, stop, press it back down, and continue peeling very slowly.
- Once the tape is off, firmly press the entire decal with a microfiber cloth so it is fully adhered.
Keep the decal dry and away from wiper blades for 48 hours. Hand wash only when possible and keep pressure washers away from the edges.
Your ride now has a Happy Endings (or several). Welcome to the family.
Questions about our products, your order, shipping, returns, or anything else?
Our team typically responds within 1 business day.
Contact UsOr email us at support@happyendingsofficial.com