Finally, a paper pre-mask can be applied to the top of the vinyl design allowing easy application of multiple letters and shapes. After the patterns are cut, excess vinyl on the sheet is removed in a process called weeding. Designs are typically created using specialized computer software and sent to the machines electronically. Vinyl is fed through a cutting plotter or large-format printer/cutter which prints the desired image and cuts out the desired shapes. Mass-production of vinyl decals starts with large rolls of vinyl sheet. When manufactured out of vinyl the latter is known as a vinyl-cut-decal. Two variations include the traditional water-slide or water-dip, with the artwork screen-printed on water-resistant paper coated with a layer of water-soluble adhesive, and a dry peel-and-stick format using a standard adhesive - which technically is not a decal, as there is no 'art transfer', rather an adhesive-backed label known as a sticker. As applied, where only the adhesive-backed artwork remains, affixed to its desired (and appropriate) substrate, temporarily or permanently as designed. Decals are produced, shipped, and stored in this composite state.Ģ. As manufactured, which consists of the artwork printed on the upper side of a paper or film label stock, temporarily affixed by a typically water or heat soluble adhesive to the upper side of a silicone- or other release agent-coated paper or film backing stock. The term 'decal' refers to the mass-produced art transfer in two different states:ġ. The technique was invented by Simon François Ravenet, an engraver from France who later moved to England and perfected the process he called 'décalquer' (which means 'to copy by tracing') it became widespread during the decal craze or mania of the late 19th century. The word is short for decalcomania, a decorative technique by which engravings and prints are transferred to pottery or other materials. A decal being attached to a piece of machineryĪ decal ( / ˈ d iː k æ l/, US also / d ɪ ˈ k æ l/, CAN / ˈ d ɛ k əl/) or transfer is a plastic, cloth, paper, or ceramic substrate that has printed on it a pattern or image that can be moved to another surface upon contact, usually with the aid of heat or water.

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