Car Wrapping

A vehicle wrap is a digital printing that is applied to a vehicle usually on all sides and even the roof and hood of a car. Mostly done for advertising, they are much more versatile and visually appealing than simply applying vinyl lettering to the car. The technology behind vehicle wraps allows for any image to be applied including text, photographs and digitally designed logos.

How Vehicle Wrapping Works

From start to finish, the process of wrapping a vehicle as a car coat requires first coming up with the design of the car which is done in sections usually in a computer using a specially modified program for the job. Once the design for each section - which may seem to flow seamlessly into the next section - is finished, the parts are printed out using special printers that put the design in a very fine complicated checkerboard pattern onto a specially prepared vinyl surface with an adhesive backing. This vinyl itself is see-through, but the areas that are painted technically are not, which is why the pattern is checkered. When applied to windows as they often are for the rear window or for the side windows of busses, the patterning will allow those inside the vehicle to see outside, but those outside typically will not be able to see in.

Applying the Car Coat Wrapping

Achieving a professional-quality look with car wrapping is difficult if you do it yourself, getting a professional to do it is recommended. This is done by cleaning the surface of the vehicle thoroughly using a soap and water solution and then wiping the vehicle clean. Often alcohol will also be applied to remove grease, wax or oil from the surface of th car as well.

The vinyl backing is then measured precisely and cut to fit the right part of the car to be covered. The backing is carefully removed from the vinyl which is then applied to the vehicle using a squeegee and precision cuts with a razor blade to get a smooth, bubble-or defect-free look and without tearing the vinyl in the application process.

Properly applied, these types of car coats can last for years and give a professional, stunning look to your vehicle that is suitable for advertisement or simply to add a special sporting appeal or message to your personal transportation. Some businesses will actually pay people or help pay their car financing to have their vehicles wrapped with advertisements. Finding these agreements can be tricky and time-consuming, however.