Make and Print Your Own Auto Decals

JohnCarol20

The first step is of course designing, for this you will need a software like Adobe Illustrator. If you don't have an inkjet printer or f you are looking for larger designs you can always get in touch with your local sign supply shop. Ask them about the file requirement to produce the decal and ensure that you create your designs in the specified format.

Next open any vector based computer program like the Adobe Illustrator and start designing. Create a file size for the design based on your requirements. You can opt for designs which include both text and images or you could simply go for image based auto decals. The most important constraint when designing your own auto decals is the size of the image. Ensure that the design can fit snuggly into the mounting area of the vehicle.

If you do intend to insert text ensure that you convert it to vector lines instead of using simple text after the sizing and spacing has been done. In Adobe Illustrator you would just have to highlight the text, select 'type' and opt for 'create outlines'; this will convert the text to a vector image that will be readable by a vinyl cutting machine, however you can do away with this step if you intend to print your auto decals at home

Try several variations of your design, changing the font and size of the lettering and experimenting with the position of the image. Also play around with the back ground colors. Now depending on the surface on which you intend to use the auto decals you can either choose sticky paper or The Avery clear decals which are suitable for window graphics

The Printing:

Both these materials are expensive so try out your design on normal printer paper first and everything seems fine, insert the appropriate type of paper in your inkjet printer. Follow the instructions for printing on sticky paper or clear decal sheet. Then simply click on file and 'print' and your design should be printed on the material of your choice.

Let the decal dry before using it on an appropriate surface. The best part of making your own auto decals; if you are not designing banners for business purposes, is that you could turn it into a family activity and get your kids involved in the designing process and whip out some snazzy designs.