Transfer Film and Transfer Tape

Keep your cut designs in place and lined up as one and move a whole vinyl design onto your project in one go. We offer different transfer tapes: some are clear, some are frosted. Some have gridlines, some don't. They come in various strengths, including light, standard and strong tack/grip. We also offer Application Tape, which is generally paper-based and has a similar finish to masking tape (although, to be very clear, it is not masking tape!).

What is it?

Learn more about transfer film and transfer tape.

Transfer tape is a temporary sticky film used to move a cut adhesive-vinyl design off its backing/carrier sheet and onto your chosen surface. It holds the separate pieces in position while you apply them, then peels away to leave the vinyl behind.

Use cases

When you should and shouldn't use transfer film and transfer tape.

  • Ideal for: Keeping lettering, numbers, pictures and separate design elements aligned.

  • Ideal for: Applying adhesive-vinyl decals to glasses, bottles, signs, windows and craft blanks.

  • Ideal for: Positioning cut designs made from compatible permanent or removable vinyl.

  • Not the best for: Using it as heat-resistant transfer material for HTV, DTF or sublimation.

  • Not the best for: Leaving the tape on the finished item as a protective laminate.

  • Not the best for: Choosing Strong Grip for every project. Too much grip can make release difficult.

  • Not the best for: Applying it to delicate paper, unprotected printed designs or fragile paint without testing for damage.

Steps to use

How to use transfer film and transfer tape.

  1. 1

    Choose the right grip

    1. Standard Grip is great for standard smooth adhesive vinyl, including our Glossy and Matte Permanent Adhesive Vinyl. It's always best to test a small piece on the vinyl you are using first, just to be sure!
    2. Use Strong Grip when the vinyl calls for stronger tape, such as certain textured finishes, including glitters and shimmers. Check the vinyl's instructions rather than choosing by colour or thickness alone.

  2. 2

    Prepare your decal and surface

    1. Cut and weed your adhesive vinyl, leaving the design on its backing. Clean your project using a cleaner suitable for that surface (for most, you generally use an isopropyl (alcohol) wipe or cleaner), then let it dry completely.

  3. 3

    Apply the transfer tape

    1. Cut enough tape to cover the whole design and remove the tape's backing. Lower it onto the vinyl gradually, smoothing as you go, trying to avoid bubbles where possible.
    2. Rub over the design with a scraper to help it grip. This is called burnishing. Turn the piece over and rub across the back as well.

  4. 4

    Remove the vinyl backing

    1. Place the design face down on the table (with the backing/carrier sheet facing you). Keep the design flat and slowly fold the vinyl backing/carrier sheet away from the tape, at an angle where the backing/carrier sheet is almost back on itself. The cut pieces should stay on the tape.
    2. If a piece stays behind, lay the backing down again, rub over that area with your scraper, and/or try peeling from another direction.

  5. 5

    Position and secure the design

    1. Line up the decal before touching it to the surface. Set down one edge or the centre first, then smooth outwards to reduce trapped air. Avoid placing the whole design down at once, as it will be harder to remove air bubbles.
    2. Rub over the tape with your scraper, paying attention to small letters and edges. Support curved items so they do not roll while you work.

  6. 6

    Peel away the tape

    1. Pull the tape slowly back over itself, keeping it close to the surface. If vinyl lifts with it, lower the tape, rub that section down and try again. Remove all of the transfer tape.

Remember

Be sure not to wash or wet your design for at least 24 hours after applying, as the glue needs to cure. Care for the finished item according to the vinyl and blank you used, e.g. avoiding dishwashers.

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FAQs

View frequently asked questions (FAQs) about transfer film and transfer tape.

  • What is the difference between the different coloured gridlines?

    Different coloured gridlines generally represent the strength (e.g. green gridline is standard grip, and purple is strong grip). Grid colours are not universal across brands, so always check the label when using another tape.

  • Why won't the tape pick up my vinyl?

    Check that the design is fully cut and weeded, then burnish from both sides. Old or dirty tape can lose its grip. Some specialty vinyl also has a protective film that must come off first; check that product's instructions.

  • Why won't the vinyl come off the tape?

    The tape may be too strong, or the project surface may be dirty, damp, textured or unsuitable. Rub the vinyl down again and peel the tape back close to the surface. Start with a small test when changing materials.

  • Do I mirror the design when using transfer tape?

    Usually no. Standard adhesive-vinyl decals are cut as you want them to appear. Reverse applications, such as a design viewed through glass from the other side, need separate planning.

  • Can I reuse a piece of tape?

    Generally, yes, you can reuse a piece of transfer tape; however, its grip changes with use, so a used piece may not pick up the next design reliably. Use a fresh piece if it is dirty, creased or struggling to lift the vinyl.

  • Will this tape work with every vinyl we sell?

    There is no single tape that suits every finish and brand. Match the grip to the vinyl's instructions. If you're unsure, tell us the exact vinyl you have, and we'll help you choose.

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