Creating vehicle cover wraps

There are four main steps to creating vehicle cover wraps: designing, proofing, printing, and installing.

Designing
The design work is the longest part of the vehicle wrap process. It can take anywhere from 5 to 40 hours, depending on the complexity of the design and style of vehicle. Certain graphics may have to be specially cut and contoured to fit parts of the vehicle, which can take longer.

Proofing
Once the design is ready, the vendor creates an electronic or printed proof of the wrap. It’s important to carefully examine the proof for any mistakes you find and immediately note any changes you want made to the final wrap before printing. Any changes you have after the wrap goes into final production can delay turnaround and add significantly to your costs.

Printing
Vendors print the finished design on 48-to 60-inch-wide vinyl sheets using a large-format, solvent-based printer. These printers produce vehicle wraps and other signage at a very high resolution. Complete vehicle wraps are typically printed in multiple panels and carefully pieced together during installation.

After printing the wrap, the vendor sets it aside for a few hours to “gas out.” This prevents the vinyl from bubbling or wrinkling during application.

Installing
Before the vendor can begin installing your wrap, your vehicle needs to be thoroughly cleaned so that the wrap will adhere properly. Taking it through a high-pressure car wash that uses powerful detergents should clean off most grime and debris.

Once cleaned, the installer carefully aligns the vinyl panels to ensure proper fit and applies them to the vehicle. The installer uses a small tool like a heat gun to stretch and reposition the vinyl, and a squeegee to eliminate imperfections. When finished, he may apply a UV-coated laminate to the surface to protect the wrap and provide a glossier finish. This process also makes the wrap easier to remove when you no longer need it.

It’s important to note that installers rely on sharp razors to manipulate the vinyl and remove excess material around door handles and crevices. Even with expert installers, there’s some potential for minor nicks and scratches to the surface.

Caring for your wrapped vehicle
To keep the wrap clean, hand wash the vehicle regularly with soap, water, and a clean rag. Avoid high-pressure or bristle-based car washes that could lift up or tear the wrap, as well as waxes that could remove the laminate or minimize the wrap’s adhesion.