So I got up early this morning so I could Decal the body. This is so close to being done, I am having a hard time sleeping.
First thing to remember when applying decals...don't do it early in the morning.
Now, with these decals being so big, I flashed back to when I used to do this at a buddy's body shop.
First thing you need to do is cut as much of the excess backing from around the decal so you have a better vision of how it is going to set. Proceed to place it on the location that you want it to be, in this case, the hood.
Align it by using static measuring points to ensure that it is straight. I used the same locations on the wheel wells.
Now that you have it where you want, very carefully hold it in place and get some tape and place it down the center of the decal, making sure you overlap onto the surface that the decal is going to be applied to.
It is extremely important that you make sure that the tape is secure.
Gently peel back the decal off one side. It doesn't matter which one. Peel it from the outside back to the tape and lay it over the other half. Be very careful not to crease or tear it.
With scissors or an X-acto knife, cut the exposed backing about 3/4" from the tape.
With this situation, using your left hand, hold the decal at a 45 degree angle from the surface. With your right hand (fingers), rub the decal, parallel to the tape, starting at the tape and slowly working it to the edge. Only allow enough decal with your left hand as needed. This will avoid premature adhesion.
Now with half the decal in place, you can gently remove the tape. Make sure not to pull, tear or stretch the decal. Once removed, flip the unstuck (right) side over the left side.
Repeating the process as you did the left side, only this time, hold the backing from the center cut. Using your "left" hand, slowly work it out to the edge until it is completely adhered.
Finished product!!!!