Vinyl is one of the most significantly used materials nowadays in everyday life. Its actual name is Polyvinyl Chloride resin, but people only know it as vinyl. A misconception about vinyl is it’s perceived to have limited usage with applications only for flooring and cables, but there is a lot more it can be used for.
However, when it comes to crafts or working with vinyl, an important component is transfer tape. It ensures the proper and neat application of vinyl to the surface. This article answers some of the most asked questions when it comes to the transfer tapes.
Why do I Need a Transfer Tape for Vinyl?
Transfer tape is a paper or film that allows the transfer of vinyl from its backing to the intended surface. You have to place the transfer tape over the vinyl sticker, and it attaches to the tape. Lastly, place it on the surface to stick the vinyl and remove the tape.
What is the Difference Between Transfer Paper and Tape?
There are two types of transfer application tapes: Transfer tape and Transfer paper. Following are the differences between both:
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The transfer tape is transparent whereas the transfer paper is translucent.
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The transfer tape is non-grided whereas the transfer paper can be grided in some cases.
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The transfer tape is a little less sticky whereas the transfer paper is more.
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The transfer tape doesn’t come with any backing whereas the transfer paper comes with a backing.
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The transfer tape is a little more expensive whereas the transfer paper is less.
More or less, both serve the same purpose and can be used interchangeably. However, transfer paper is more effective in wet applications due to its breathable nature.
Why Won't My Vinyl Come Off the Transfer Tape?
There are certain scenarios where the vinyl won’t come off the transfer tape. It’s essential to know the reasons for it to come to a solution:
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Your surface isn’t completely cleaned for the vinyl to stick.
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You are using a lot stickier tape than what’s required.
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You haven’t left the tape on for enough time to let the vinyl bond with the surface.
So, whenever your vinyl doesn’t come off, try cleaning the surface, using less sticky tape, or leaving it for a bit longer time.
What Can I Use for Vinyl Instead of Transfer Tape?
If you don’t have a transfer tape, you can utilize the following, depending on the requirements and surface:
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Masking Tape – It comes with a stickiness that is enough to hold the vinyl but not that strong ensuring easy removal after the vinyl application.
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Lint Roller Paper – It is a cheaper alternative and can work effectively.
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Contact Paper – These papers have enough stickiness to serve efficiently as transfer papers.
Therefore, you can utilize either the transfer tape or paper depending on your project requirements. Map the requirements to the information and differences discussed in the article and it will help you make the right decision. Also, the article covered some of the alternatives that work as effectively as the transfer tape itself.
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