Bat's guide to applying Vinyl Overlays
 

Finally, a step by step on how to apply my Vinyl Overlays, particularly on curved surfaces! Moderators, feel free to sticky this ;).

1. Make sure surface is clean before starting.

http://www.bluebatmobile.com/gallery...6/IMGP2394.jpg

2. Peel Overlay from backing and dip in a bucket of warm soap and water. I usually squirt just a dab of dishwashing liquid in a bucket and fill it halfway.

http://www.bluebatmobile.com/gallery...6/IMGP2395.jpg

3. Carefully place Overlay on surface, and position it.

http://www.bluebatmobile.com/gallery...6/IMGP2396.jpg

4. Once you have the Overlay placed exactly where you want it. Start by heating up one end. This will help the vinyl become pliable and easy to work with.

http://www.bluebatmobile.com/gallery...6/IMGP2397.jpg

5. Then, take a squeegy or credit card and wrap it in a soft damp cloth to prevent scratching the Overlay. Start by applying pressure from one end and slowly work your way across the center of it.

http://www.bluebatmobile.com/gallery...6/IMGP2399.jpg
http://www.bluebatmobile.com/gallery...6/IMGP2400.jpg

6. Now, you may be discouraged because of all the wrinkles towards the ends. Don't be. Begin heating the sides up.

http://www.bluebatmobile.com/gallery...6/IMGP2401.jpg

7. Now, slowly work your squeegy from the middle outward. Do it slowly. This will ensure the vinyl is dispursed evenly over the surface.

http://www.bluebatmobile.com/gallery...6/IMGP2402.jpg
http://www.bluebatmobile.com/gallery...6/IMGP2403.jpg

8. Any overlapping areas can be tucked under the edges. Again, use a hairdryer, then tuck Overlay.

http://www.bluebatmobile.com/gallery...6/IMGP2405.jpg

9. Tada!

http://www.bluebatmobile.com/gallery...6/IMGP2409.jpg

very nice very nice...never realized it was such a huge process though...

Ben

Well, it's alot easier on flat surfaces ;).

Bat™

In my experience w/ vinyl, Ive done all of that except step 2; the dunking in soapy water. Whats that do for the vinyl?

It replaces squirting soap and water to the surface being overlayed. I like my method because the entire overlay is wet, not just parts of it.

Bat™

Uh oh, Bat, now everyone can put on your competitor's overlays!;)

:mad: I hear you are making the 1 piece vynil now for the rear? I remember I complained about this being 2 pieces, and you told me not a lot of people have experience putting them on. It sucks because everyone asks me, are those bat's overlay's? And I say yes, but they don't like how you can see its 2 pieces... Any chance of sending over some 1 piece instead for your loyal customer ;)

Dude, I've switched over to 1 piece a good while a go. Email me, I'll give you a good price on a set;).

Bat™

nice writeup and pics....

thanks ;).

Bat™

Yep, that helps... it's the old hairdryer trick!

Agree, this should be pinned for the future reference of all. Or if not, maybe Bat can post on his own website.

;).

Bat™

Having put numerous Bat overlays on my car my adivce is this: Take your time and don't give up!

Those wrinkles work themselves out...the hair dryer really helps.

wow, i didn't think there would be so many wrinkles. But in the end they come out and the final product looks fine so i guess they are worth it :D

What i would like to know is what it looks like when it's dry the portion of the tailight inside the trunk and right under the tailight where you have to wedge it in.

Got pics of those places?
http://www.bluebatmobile.com/gallery...6/IMGP2403.jpg
http://www.bluebatmobile.com/gallery...6/IMGP2405.jpg

I snaps some pics and post them here in a bit ;).

Bat™

Ordered my Overlays .. Can't wait to install them.. this is a GREAT thread.. and very helpfull ... I'm soo excited :)

received my headlight, sidemarker, and rear turnsignal overlays. they turned out awesome. i have a few rough spots but thats b/c i didnt know how to do it first. they looks great. thanks bat.

Looking forward to the pics :).

Bat™

Thread stuck. :)

Thank You!

Bat;)