Craft Hack: Applying A Vinyl Decal On A Curved Surface

Have you ever gotten 90% of the way through a project only to have things go completely awry in the home stretch?

I’m talking a flawlessly cut and weeded vinyl decal, on the transfer tape and ready to apply when…

(Cue ominous music) Disaster strikes…

You begin to lay the vinyl onto your project surface and you just can’t get it to lay flat. There are wrinkles. There are bubbles. It’s a mess.

Don’t worry sis, today I’m sharing my top tips to help you apply a decal to a curved surface with ease.

Step 1: Cut + Weed Your Decal

Begin by cutting your decal using a Cricut Maker or other cutting machine. Next, use a weeding tool to weed away and excess vinyl and apply your decal to the transfer tape.

Step 2: Prepare Your Decal for Transfer

Before transferring your decal, snip small slits into your transfer tape.

This is where the magic begins to happen. These slits work to release some of the tension of the decal and allows for more flexibility when applying it to the curved surface, helping you to avoid any wrinkling.

Step 3: Steady your project surface

Pro Tip: Use a rolled-up towel or cloth on either side of your project to provide some much-needed stability for transferring.

This simple tip is a total game-changer when it comes to applying a decal to a curved surface like a glass, cup, or tumbler!

Step 4: Transfer

Slowly place your decal onto your project surface and use a scraper tool or your fingers to smooth it down until it has fully adhered.

Step 5: Enjoy!

Now it’s time to peel away your transfer tape and reveal your finished project!

Okay, sis, you feelin’ ready to tackle some new projects?!

Coffee mugs, wine glasses, tumblers, even holiday ornaments – lookout because we’re coming for ya.

If you enjoyed this tutorial, head over to YouTube to see the steps above in action! And while you’re there be sure to subscribe to my channel for lots of crafting tips, tricks, and more tutorials just like this one.

Want more of my best tips and tricks? I’m here for YOU, so I’d love for you to comment below and tell me what you want to know!