Questions About Lettering

Q: Can I use vulgar words in my design?

NO (but with a caveat) In short, we do not make vinyl lettering that uses vulgar words or phrases. But what is a vulgar word? That seems to be a moving target. Societal norms change. Still they need to be respected. And then again, some words might not be in themselves vulgar, but the idea behind them is. So, if the phrase is considered: 1. a curse word 2. a violent or hateful idea ... the order will be refunded. We are NOT sticks in the mud. Sometimes we get some borderline funny boat names and we 'let them pass'. Still it seems any 'line in the sand' gets pushed further and further back. For instance, what is a curse word? What is a hateful idea? We have struggled with how to answer this over the decades. Finally, we found a simple answer: 'Would our young children view us as hypocrites for making vinyl lettering using this word?' If the answer is yes, then we refund the order. That is our line in the sand. If you're reading this, well probably something ordered crossed that line... for us. In no way does this mean we judge someone else as wrong. We just have to do what is right for us. Thank you for understanding. Possibly the order can be changed and the curse words removed? Or maybe we can give a discount code to make up for any hassle our conscience has caused. Either way, let us know what we can do, within the confines of our conscience.

Q: How can I get a custom lettering size?

The online lettering rendering does not allow custom sizes to be rendered. However, custom sizes can be ordered. How to order? Order as usual the closest lettering height needed. After you order email, us the order number along with the "correction" (i.e., change size to: ______) and we'll make the change before production begins. Have another question about decals, signs, lettering, or stripes?

Q: Can you make the custom lettering in smaller sizes (like 1/2″)?

Yes you can. Order as usual, after you order email us the order number along with the "correction" (i.e., change size to: ______) and we'll make the change before production begins. Have another question about decals, signs, lettering, or stripes?

Q: Can I get my lettering in some other color than what is listed, like pink?

Yes, you can! After you order, email us and flag the order. Let us know the order number (given at the receipt page) and let us know what color to make the lettering. Have another question about decals, signs, lettering, or stripes?

Q: Will the lettering harm my painted surfaces of my vehicle?

NO! But a couple of concerns. Do not apply lettering to "fresh" paint. Check with the painter for curing time. The paint should be cured before installation. If after many, many years you remove the lettering, the paint underneath will not have seen any "wear and tear" and will usually have a better gloss (like the day installed). And on some paint colors (i.e., red), fading of the paint where the lettering was not installed is noticed for the first time. But usually a little wax or buffing solves this problem. Besides these two concerns, the lettering will not harm your paint in any way. Have another question about decals, signs, lettering, or stripes?

Q: Can I get lettering cut in reverse or ‘mirror’ cut?

Detailed Customer Question On your lettering, I'd like to put it on the inside. So it will have to be cut reversed or 'mirror' cut. Is this possible? Yes you can. Order as usual. After you order, email us the order number along with the "correction" (i.e., change to mirrored of original) and we'll make the change before production begins. Have another question about decals, signs, lettering, or stripes?

Q: Can I get my lettering in chrome?

Yes you can. There is no additional charge for chrome. However, chrome for graphics is a sensitive material. It must be waxed monthly. Because it is an actual metal foil, it will oxidize and lose its shine if not waxed. If you wax the graphics monthly, it will last for many years. Have another question about decals, signs, lettering, or stripes?

Q: Will your vinyl lettering stick to interior panels of a car?

The dash and interior panels are not a good idea for decal installation. They make the dash with oil "built in". This is why dashes don't crack anymore. You could prep till your blue in the face (believe me I've done it) and within 2 to 3 months oils will reappear and cause the decal (or even duck tape) to let go. There is one option in which some of our customers have had success. Order the graphic/decal just like usual. Then after you order, email us that you'd like it "made into a stencil for an interior panel or dash." We will then "reverse cut" the decal (meaning the inside of the decal will be what shows on the dash). The rest of the decal will have become a paint mask stencil when applied. You can use this along with interior dye (local parts store) to achieve the look you want. Keep in mind this should be viewed as permanent. Also, we do not have any other details on this process. You may want to check with a local body shop for more details and to confirm what some of our customers have done is indeed a good idea. Let us know how it goes so we can update this question/answer. Hope this information helps. Have another question about decals, signs, lettering, or stripes?

Q: What color is your RED vinyl lettering (or your other colors)?

Excellent question. Computer monitors vary greatly in the way they display colors. For instance, red can appear from tomato red to burgundy - all depending on the monitor. If an exact color match is needed we can send you out a color chart right away - no charge. Just let us know where to send it. This is a great idea anyway. The color chart has many colors not available online. If you select one of these "special" colors in the color chart, but not offered online, how do you order? Order as usual, after you order, email us your order number along with the "correction" (i.e., change to pearl white) and we'll make the change to your order before production begins. Have another question about decals, signs, lettering, or stripes?

Q: On your online renderings for lettering, what is the background color?

Common Question. As mentioned on the order page, the background is for preview purposes only. Why? The background color is the color of the intended surface (color of your car, mailbox, etc..). We don't actually make that color. Why, then, show the background color? It is helpful for getting a feel for how the color selected for your lettering will look on your car, mailbox, storefront, or where you have in mind. A question that usually comes up with this question is: 'Does this mean the background is clear vinyl?' No. The lettering is pre-spaced on a wax paper sheet and then covered with a transfer tape to hold them all together (spaced as designed). Then the transfer paper and lettering is applied to the intended surface. Then the transfer paper is removed, leaving just the lettering. You could say that the background is 'clear' in that it isn't there :) Still confused? A picture is worth a thousand words. Check out the installation page. If you still have questions, email us. We'll be glad to help. Have another question about decals, signs, lettering, or stripes?

Question 1

Are these individual vinyl letters?

Answer

Yes, the lettering consists of individual pieces die-cut from vinyl with no background material or connecting webbing, except for cursive fonts. The letters are pre-spaced and aligned on a wax paper backing, then covered with transfer tape, allowing them to be applied together as a single unit for a seamless, painted-on look.

Question 2

Can I get lettering cut in reverse or 'mirror' cut?

Answer

Yes, lettering can be cut in reverse or mirror image, which is useful for applying it to the inside of a window so it faces outward correctly. To request this, place your order as usual and then email the order number with instructions to mirror the lettering before production begins.

Question 3

Can I get lettering to fit the curve of your windshield?

Answer

Because windshield curves vary significantly by vehicle model, there is no standard pre-curved lettering available. To match a specific curve, it is best to apply individual letters one at a time during installation. This method cannot be used for joined or cursive font styles.

Question 4

Can I get my lettering in chrome?

Answer

Yes, lettering can be made in chrome at no additional charge. Because chrome is an actual metal foil, it is sensitive and requires monthly waxing to prevent oxidation and loss of shine. To order chrome, place your order normally and email the order number specifying that the lettering should be made chrome.

Question 5

Can I get my lettering in some other color than what is listed, like pink?

Answer

Yes, lettering can be produced in pink or most other colors not listed online. To order a special color, place your order as usual and then email the company with your order number, specifying the exact color you want. They will adjust the color before production begins.

Question 6

Can I put your lettering on painted wood?

Answer

Lettering can be applied to painted wood, but its longevity depends entirely on the quality and preparation of the underlying paint. The vinyl adheres well to the paint, but if the paint job is poor or begins to fail, the lettering will peel off along with it. Because the condition of the painted surface cannot be guaranteed, the application is not officially warranted.

Question 7

Can I use vulgar words in my design?

Answer

The company does not produce vinyl lettering that contains vulgar words, curse words, or violent and hateful ideas. If an order crosses this line, it will be refunded. The standard they use is whether the phrase would be considered inappropriate for their young children, and they reserve the right to refuse or refund orders that violate this policy.

Question 8

Can the vinyl lettering be used on painted sheetrock?

Answer

Yes, vinyl lettering works well on painted interior sheetrock, provided the surface is clean and free of oil. Because the vinyl is designed for harsh outdoor use, it will adhere easily indoors, though full adhesion may take up to 30 days. During this curing period, take care to ensure children or others do not pick at the edges.

Question 9

Can you make the custom lettering in smaller sizes (like 1/2")?

Answer

Yes, custom lettering can be produced in very small sizes, such as 1/2 inch. To order, simply place an order for the closest available size and then email the company with your order number and the exact custom dimensions you require. They will adjust the size before production begins.

Question 10

Can your vinyl lettering be clear coated or painted? If so, what is the procedure?

Answer

Although the manufacturer does not recommend clear coating over vinyl lettering, many body shops do so without major issues. The primary risk is that the vinyl expands and contracts at a different rate than the clear coat, which can occasionally cause the clear coat to peel or pop off. Ultimately, a top coat is not necessary for the durability of the lettering.

Question 11

Do you spray the back of the vinyl lettering or the surface? I'm confused!

Answer

You can spray the application solution on either the back of the lettering or the target surface; it does not matter. However, using more solution or a stronger soap mixture will increase the time required for the letters to fully adhere. In cooler weather below 60 degrees, it is best to use little to no solution, and care should be taken not to wet the wax paper backing.

Question 12

Does your lettering stick to vinyl wheel covers?

Answer

Lettering can adhere to vinyl wheel covers, but the installation is difficult and durability is uncertain because the covers expand and contract. To improve adhesion, clean the cover with ammonia and denatured alcohol, warm it in the sun, apply the lettering, and repeatedly press it down while warm. Tight-fitting covers will last significantly longer than loose ones.

Question 13

How can I get a custom lettering size?

Answer

While the online rendering tool does not display custom sizes, you can easily order a custom height. Simply place an order for the closest available lettering height, and then email the company with your order number and the exact custom size you require. They will adjust the dimensions before production begins.

Question 14

How difficult is it to remove the vinyl lettering?

Answer

The lettering is designed to remain in place until you choose to remove it, at which point it comes off easily without damaging the paint. On glass, slide a razor blade underneath and clean the residue with glass cleaner. On painted surfaces, pick at the edges with your fingernail, preferably while the surface is warm from the sun, and use mineral spirits to remove any leftover adhesive.

Question 15

How long does your vinyl lettering last?

Answer

Vinyl lettering typically lasts at least five years, but often much longer. Lifespan can be reduced to around five years if the lettering is installed on a flat horizontal surface, submerged below the waterline, or exposed to harsh chemicals and wax buildup along the edges. As a general rule, any chemical or condition that can damage the underlying surface will also damage the vinyl.

Question 16

I got bubbles in my lettering, what should I do?

Answer

If you get bubbles during installation, try pushing them out with a squeegee if you used the wet method. If the decal has already dried and the bubbles will not push out, you can carefully pop them with a sharp razor knife and press the vinyl flat; this leaves no visible blemish. Alternatively, small bubbles may disappear on their own within a day or two as temperature changes cause the air pockets to draw down.

Question 17

Is it OK for my windshield wipers to hit the vinyl lettering?

Answer

Vinyl lettering can withstand being hit by windshield wipers and will last for many years, provided the wipers are kept clean and in good condition. However, if the wipers pick up dirt and become worn, they can scratch the windshield, which will subsequently scratch and damage the lettering.

Question 18

On your online renderings for lettering, what is the background color?

Answer

The background color shown in online renderings is for preview purposes only and represents the color of your intended surface, such as your car or mailbox. The actual lettering does not have a background; it consists of pre-spaced letters on a wax paper backing with transfer tape. When installed, the background is completely clear and takes on the color of the underlying surface.

Question 19

The lettering kept sticking to the paper backing. What should I do?

Answer

If the lettering sticks to the paper backing instead of the transfer tape, it is likely due to high humidity during shipping. To fix this, lay the lettering flat with the paper backing on the bottom and re-squeegee the transfer tape on top. If the wax paper has torn and stuck to the vinyl, carefully use a razor blade or fingernail to separate them before proceeding with the installation.

Question 20

What color is your RED vinyl lettering (or your other colors)?

Answer

Because computer monitors display colors differently, it is difficult to guarantee an exact color match from a screen. If an exact match is required, you can request a free physical color chart by mail. Once you select a color from the physical chart, place your order and email the order number with the specific color code to ensure accuracy before production.

Question 21

Will the lettering harm my painted surfaces of my vehicle?

Answer

Vinyl lettering will not harm your vehicle’s paint, provided the paint is fully cured before application. Applying lettering to fresh paint can trap solvents and cause damage. Once cured, the lettering actually protects the paint underneath; however, removing it after many years may reveal a slight color difference due to the surrounding paint fading, which can usually be resolved with wax or buffing.

Question 22

Will the letters adhere strongly? Why 'mist' the back with water?

Answer

The vinyl letters adhere extremely strongly once fully cured. Misting the back with a water and soap solution during installation prevents the adhesive from grabbing too quickly, allowing time for proper positioning. While the wet method slightly delays full adhesion, the letters will bond securely within a day or two.

Question 23

Will the Vinyl Lettering color I receive look different from what I see on the screen?

Answer

Yes, the physical vinyl color may look slightly different from what you see on your screen because monitors emit light using RGB colors, while vinyl reflects light using CMYK inks. Additionally, monitor calibration and lighting conditions can affect how colors are perceived. If an exact color match is imperative, you can purchase physical color samples for final approval before production.

Question 24

Will your vinyl lettering stick to interior panels of a car?

Answer

Vinyl lettering is not recommended for dashboards or interior panels because these surfaces contain built-in oils that will eventually cause the adhesive to fail. As an alternative, you can order the lettering to be reverse-cut to act as a stencil, allowing you to use interior dye for a permanent custom look, though this process is permanent and requires consulting a local body shop for details.