Do it yourself vinyl

[tmactj23]

So I've been doing a bit a research on vinyl vs. paint for the racing stripes on my Camaro. I've seen the debates on these forums, but then I got to thinking. My brother-in-law has a vinyl cutter. If I bought the right vinyl online, how difficult would it be to just put this on myself? Has anyone undertaken this project? I do like the idea of being able to "change up" my Camaro's look every few years.

[=Stephens=]

Its like tinting windows, not too hard, you spray soapy water with a spray bottle on it when you peel of the backing, spray the car, then put it on. Use a squeegee to clear out the air bubbles and let it dry. This allows you to move it around for placement.

[tmactj23]

Wow that doesn't seem too difficult at all. Now the question remains...what color to do the stripes! After seeing the burnt orange on iom on the site I just wonder if vinyl would even look close to paint.

[ihaveacamaro]

I wouldn't do it myself, but I've never tinted windows either.

It's up to you. The process itself isn't hard but I can see a lot of frustration getting the stripes to line up just right.

[CamaroKid300]

It's much harder than it sounds....

You have to make sure they are square and in the center... and getting them straight when you come down the scoop in the hood is a PITA... also getting out all the bubbles suck. I'd save yourself the hassle and pay someone to do it.

[Inferno LSX]

if your just doing flat parts its easier than part you have to stretch and heat up. If its like vinyl graphics just put lots of solution of soap and water. the more you aply to the graphics and car the better so you can move it around. Try it and good luck.

[sizzle06]

I did my own,just like everyone has been saying,keep it lubed up with soapy water and you wont have a problem.

[=Stephens=]

Everyone has their views, and based on someones experience level will give their opinion. I have never pulled an engine so I would say no way. But a ASE certified mechanic would say it can be done.

I have experience with automotive electronics so replacing stereos, installing fogs, HIDs or interior LEDs isn't difficult. So based on your experience level will determine if you can take on this challenge. The worst case scenario, you mess it up and have to do it again. I have done windows, so I did a Youtube search and watched some videos and then I blacked out the tail.

[DanCamm]

I did my own, but I've been in the graphics business for a long time. The other guys are right, installation isn't really that difficult, but it can be tricky in spots. The bigger issue is getting the proper shape/dimensions laid out in the design software before you send it to the cutter. I plotted mine out at least 4 times on paper and mocked them up before I had the exact shape and fit. Doing them yourself is a great option, just be sure you are informed of exactly what's involved before you jump...

Oh, and if you do use the "soapy water" method, just a few drops in a spray bottle and fill with water. Don't overdo the soap...

Good luck!

[BLACK10]

ive done about 8 sets of stripes. it is NOT as easy as it looks

[tmactj23]

Thanks for bringing some reality to my excitement! I'm ready for some of my own customization, but this one I'm going to think on a little more. It would be cool to know how to do it, and much cheaper. But the work might not yield the results I want. I'm not going do anything to jeopardize the "sexyness" of my Camaro. Thanks guys and gals.

[Bonanza7]

I've done a number of them, and getting the bubbles out has always been the biggest problem. A good hairdryer helps.

[CamaroKid300]

It cost me $225 to get my Stripes and Hockey stripes put on. $200 for all my stripes... so for $425 I am a VERY happy customer.

It may have cost a good bit, and it took them all day... but the job was amazing and i haven't had a problem with them yet!

[Inferno LSX]

It's nice to pay and have it done, but if you do it yourself you'll be proud about it. Plus it's just vinyl, not like your doing a cam swap or rear diff change. If you mess up so what, try again. Shouldn't hurt the car.