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Vinyl Finishes and Sizes

Matte Vinyl vs. Glossy VinylWe offer two types of vinyl, matte and regular (or gloss). Most colors are available in both options - so which vinyl type should you choose?


If you are applying the decal to a glass block, there is no difference. Simply choose the finish you prefer - either shiny gloss, or flat matte.

Matte

Matte vinyl is considered to be “removable” in that it removes easier than regular gloss vinyl from most surfaces. The adhesive on the matte vinyl is water-based.

  • It is the best choice for NON-TEXTURED walls and projects that will be used indoors only.
  • Matte is flat and has very little sheen.
  • If you are concerned about glare, choose matte.
  • Matte does not adhere well to oil based stain or paint.
  • Matte does stick well to flat smooth surfaces.

Glossy

Gloss vinyl is our “shiny” vinyl and is suitable for both indoor and outdoor application. The adhesive on the glossy vinyl is solvent-based. It is removable from walls, but not as easy as matte and may peel paint.

  • It is the best choice for tiles, windows, mirrors, and any outdoor surface.
  • It can get wet and withstand the cold and heat for 4-5 years.
  • If you have textured walls – gloss will stick better to them.
  • Gloss finish is shiny and slick.
  • For wood surfaces, we recommend gloss.

Installation on certain surfaces such as brick, stucco, concrete block, suede paints, and sand paints is not recommended for either matte or gloss vinyl.

Please note that regardless of the vinyl you choose – neither type is reusable once removed.



What size of vinyl lettering do I need?

The measurements shown on our website are for the actual piece of vinyl you will receive. Not the surface you are applying to.

  1. 1. You will need to first measure the surface you will be placing your vinyl onto.
  2. 2. Select vinyl that will measure at least 1/2 inch smaller than your surface.

For example…

If you plan on placing the vinyl on a glass block that measures 8 inches x 8 inches, you DO NOT want to order an 8 inch x 8 inch piece of vinyl. It will not fit.

Instead, you want to order vinyl that is smaller in size (we recommend 6 inches x 6 inches for glass blocks).

choosing-vinyl-lettering-sizes

Commonly requested sizes…

  • If you are placing your vinyl onto a 12 inch x 12 inch tile – we recommend ordering no larger than a 10 inch x 10 inch piece of vinyl
  • If you are placing your vinyl onto a 8 inch x 8 inch glass block – we recommend ordering no larger than a 6 inch x 6 inch piece of vinyl
  • If you are placing your vinyl onto a 6 inch x 6 inch tile – we recommend ordering no larger than a 5 inch x 5 inch piece of vinyl

Please note…

Due to the custom nature of our products, no returns are accepted when incorrect sizes are ordered.

If you are unsure of what size to order, please contact us first and we will be happy to help you choose the best size for your project.