How to Apply Stickers to a Kayak

Vinyl decals and stickers offer you a great way to customize the look of your kayak, and they make your kayak stand out in a row of similar models. Because you can apply the stickers any flat surface on the kayak, your options are endless---if you wanted you could apply a sticker the full length of the side of your kayak. Vinyl stickers adhere to any material from composites to plastics to wood.

Things You'll Need

  • Kayak
  • Water
  • Rubbing alcohol
  • Masking tape
  • Squeegee
  • Spray bottle
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Instructions

    • 1

      Clean the surface of the kayak with a mixture of 80 percent water and 20 percent rubbing alcohol. Before a sticker is applied, the surface must be free of debris. Allow the kayak to dry before applying the sticker.

    • 2

      Position the sticker where you want it and tape one end of the sticker to the kayak. This temporary tape acts as a hinge and frees up your hand for squeegeeing.

    • 3

      Lift up the sticker and peel off the paper backing. The vinyl sticker is sandwiched between two layers of backing. The top backing remains on the sticker until the entire sticker is applied to the kayak.

    • 4

      Lower the sticker until its edge touches the kayak.

    • 5

      Use a squeegee to apply pressure to the sticker. Start in the center and work to the edges. Work slowly to prevent air bubbles from forming under the sticker. Once the entire sticker is applied, go over it a second time with the squeegee.

    • 6

      Let the sticker sit on the surface for between 15 and 30 minutes. This allows the adhesive to cure and bond to the surface of your kayak.

    • 7

      Spray the paper backing using your 80/20 water and alcohol solution. Wetting the paper helps the release the backing adhesive from the vinyl, which makes removing it easier.

    • 8

      Remove the paper and check for air bubbles. Pop any air bubbles with a small needle.