By Troy Downey of APE Wraps, Corona, Calif.
Wrapping a compound on a fender can be difficult. However, if you know where to start, this can be an easy lay-down. In fact, if you think about it, it’s a pretty basic three-step process. The trick is knowing where to start. As with any wrap project, you need to begin with a very clean surface. Use isopropyl alcohol to make it squeaky clean, and make sure to get into all the nooks and crannies.
With many of the curved panels we apply, we analyze the surface and break it up into three areas of application. The rule of thumb is that you always start in the middle. For our fender example, we start with the high center point in the middle (Surface #1), then the top area (Surface #2), and finally the bottom portion (Surface #3). When positioning the vinyl over the fender, make sure it is bed-sheet tight, but too much pressure will cause it to distort.
Surface #1 — Starting with Surface area #1, apply horizontally from left to right about the width of a squeegee.
Surface #2 — For the top area, squeegee horizontally left to right, applying beyond your intended area of application well past the seam between the hood and fender.
Surface #3 — The bottom portion, Surface 3, is where it gets fun. Begin by pulling the vinyl out, and then down (top photo). Use your hand to conform the material. Pull to conform toward the front, over the headlight well. Squeegee toward your pressure hand, moving air forward (middle photo). Apply heat (bottom photo) to conform around headlight well. After heating, use your hands to conform into the light well.
If you feel this is going to be a challenge for you, please practice on your own vehicle a few times. It’ll come to you. The main thing to remember is your three surface areas.
Filed under: Signage
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