What You’ll Need
Before you begin, gather these simple supplies:
- ✅ Your wall decal from DecalHouse.com
- ✅ A clean, smooth wall surface
- ✅ Squeegee, credit card, or soft cloth
- ✅ Measuring tape or ruler
- ✅ Pencil (for marking placement – optional)
- ✅ Masking tape or painter’s tape
- ✅ Level (optional, for precise alignment)
- ✅ Clean, lint-free cloth
- ✅ Mild soap and water
Pro Tip: Watch our video tutorial for a visual demonstration of the application process!
Step 1: Prepare Your Wall Surface
Clean the wall thoroughly to ensure proper adhesion:
- Wipe down the wall with a damp cloth and mild soap to remove dust, dirt, grease, and any residue.
- Allow the wall to dry completely (at least 30 minutes to 1 hour).
- Make sure the surface is smooth and flat. Wall decals work best on painted walls, smooth wallpaper, glass, mirrors, wood, and tiles.
Important: Avoid applying decals to:
- ❌ Freshly painted walls (wait at least 2–3 weeks for paint to cure)
- ❌ Textured or rough surfaces
- ❌ Walls with peeling or flaking paint
- ❌ Dirty, dusty, or greasy surfaces
Step 2: Plan Your Design Placement
Measure and mark where you want your decal:
- Use a measuring tape to find the desired position on your wall.
- Lightly mark the placement with a pencil (these marks will be covered by the decal or can be erased later).
- For larger decals, use masking tape to temporarily position the decal on the wall and step back to visualize the final look.
- Use a level to ensure straight alignment, especially for horizontal designs or text.
Tip: Take a photo of the decal placement to confirm you’re happy with the position before applying!
Step 3: Prepare the Decal
Your wall decal consists of three layers:
- Backing paper (bottom layer) — Protects the adhesive
- Vinyl decal (middle layer) — The actual design
- Transfer tape (top layer) — Helps you apply the decal smoothly
Here’s what to do:
- Lay the decal flat on a clean surface with the transfer tape facing up.
- Use a squeegee, credit card, or your hand to firmly rub over the entire surface of the transfer tape. This ensures the decal adheres to the transfer tape and will lift away from the backing paper cleanly.
- Rub in one direction, applying even pressure across the entire decal.
Step 4: Peel Away the Backing Paper
- Carefully flip the decal over so the backing paper faces up.
- Starting from one corner, slowly peel away the backing paper at a 180-degree angle.
- The vinyl decal should stick to the transfer tape and lift away from the backing paper.
- If any part of the decal sticks to the backing paper, lay it back down, rub that area again with the squeegee, and re-peel slowly.
Important: Peel slowly and carefully to prevent the decal from tearing or stretching!
Step 5: Position the Decal on the Wall
- With the backing paper removed, hold the decal by the transfer tape with the sticky side facing the wall.
- Align the decal with your pre-marked position or measurements.
- Lightly place the top edge of the decal against the wall first (don’t press it down completely yet).
- Use masking tape to temporarily secure the top edge in place while you adjust the position if needed.
Pro Tip: For large decals, it’s helpful to have a second person assist with positioning and alignment.
Step 6: Apply the Decal to the Wall
- Once the decal is positioned correctly, begin pressing it onto the wall from the center outward.
- Use a squeegee, credit card, or soft cloth to smooth the decal onto the wall, working from the center toward the edges.
- Apply firm, even pressure to remove any air bubbles and ensure strong adhesion.
- Continue smoothing until the entire decal is firmly attached to the wall.
Technique: Use overlapping, downward strokes for best results.
Step 7: Remove the Transfer Tape
- Wait 5–10 minutes to allow the decal to fully adhere to the wall.
- Starting from one corner, slowly peel away the transfer tape at a 180-degree angle.
- Peel slowly and gently. The vinyl decal should remain on the wall while the transfer tape lifts away.
- If any part of the decal starts to lift with the transfer tape, press it back down firmly, wait a few more minutes, and try again.
Pro Tip: Peel the transfer tape back on itself (not away from the wall) for the smoothest removal.
Step 8: Smooth Out Air Bubbles (If Needed)
If you notice small air bubbles after removing the transfer tape:
- Small bubbles (smaller than a dime) will often disappear on their own within 24–48 hours.
- For larger bubbles, gently lift the edge of the decal near the bubble, smooth it back down, and press out the air with a squeegee or your finger.
- For stubborn bubbles, carefully prick the bubble with a clean pin, then smooth it flat with your finger.
Step 9: Admire Your New Wall Decal!
Congratulations! Your wall decal is now beautifully applied and ready to transform your space. Step back and enjoy your stunning new wall art!
Additional Tips for Success
For Multi-Piece Decals
If your design includes multiple separate pieces:
- Apply the largest or central piece first
- Use your reference image or instructions to position remaining pieces accurately
- Measure spacing between pieces for balanced placement
For Large Wall Decals
- Ask a friend to help with positioning and smoothing
- Work in sections, applying and smoothing one area at a time
- Take breaks if needed to avoid rushing
Temperature Matters
- Apply decals in room temperature environments (65°F–75°F / 18°C–24°C)
- Avoid applying in extreme heat or cold
- Decals may be harder to apply in very cold conditions
Allow Time to Cure
- Your decal will reach maximum adhesion after 24–72 hours
- Avoid touching or cleaning the decal during this time
- Keep away from moisture during the curing period
How to Remove Wall Decals
When it’s time to remove or reposition your decal:
- Gently peel from one corner at a 180-degree angle
- Pull slowly and steadily to avoid tearing
- If the decal resists, use a hairdryer on low heat to warm the adhesive (hold 6–12 inches away)
- Continue peeling slowly while warming stubborn areas
- If any adhesive residue remains, gently rub with a damp cloth or adhesive remover
Note: While our decals are designed to be removable, they may not be reusable once removed. Some designs can be repositioned during initial application, but adhesion may weaken after removal.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
| Issue | Solution |
|---|---|
| Decal won’t stick | Make sure wall is clean, dry, and smooth. Press firmly with squeegee. |
| Air bubbles | Smooth out with squeegee during application. Small bubbles disappear over time. |
| Decal tearing | Peel more slowly. Support the decal with your other hand while peeling. |
| Part of decal sticks to backing | Lay it back down and rub transfer tape more firmly before re-peeling. |
| Decal lifts with transfer tape | Press decal down firmly, wait longer, peel transfer tape more slowly. |
| Won’t adhere to textured wall | Wall decals work best on smooth surfaces. Consider sanding or using a different location. |