Bubbles in a vinyl decal are an eyesore. Luckily, it is easy to smooth out the bubbles. People apply vinyl decals, such as racing stripes and flames, on cars and use them for home decor, scrapbooking and laptop decorations. The decals have one adhesive side that is pressed against a flat surface. A squeegee is then used to press out the bubbles. The problem is that some bubbles get trapped under the decal. Therefore, the bubbles need to be worked out by hand.
Step 1
Apply the vinyl decal to a clean surface. Prep the surface by spraying with glass cleaner and wipe with a soft cloth. Arrange the vinyl decal on the surface with backing still attached. Tape the top of the decal with masking tape to the surface you are applying it to.
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Step 2
Flip up the decal. Peel off the backing to expose adhesive, slowly pull the backing paper at a sharp angle, starting at the upper-right corner to expose the decal. Carefully flip the decal over and lay onto the surface. Take a squeegee or something with a hard edge and run it over the decal.
Step 3
Look at the decal to find air bubbles. Take a straight pin or the tip of a razor blade to poke a hole into the bubble. Work out the bubbles by pressing them toward the edge. Holes in the decal will not be seen after the bubbles are worked out.
Step 4
Use a hairdryer to get rid of stubborn bubbles, as heating the decal will soften the adhesive. Plug in the hairdryer. Aim the hairdryer at the decal and heat the decal for one minute. Press the bubbles toward the edges of the decal to deflate them.
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