I've been cutting vinyl for a while, but only for apparel. I'd like to start doing some window graphics, but I see a lot of various specks of information but not a good solid collection in one place. So I'm asking, what vinyl do you use, what supplies (squeegee, window juice, etc.) to help a window newbie out? BTW, I have a very good cutter and will be getting another shortly.
I use oracal 651, 751 and 851 depending on how long the customer wants the window stickers to stay on the vehicle and how much they are willing to pay. I do both dry and wet applications if I am installing. It is best to clean the windows with a vinyl safe window cleaner like Rapid Prep. I have used the Rapid tac fluids for a while and they work have worked well for me. Google them, they will send you samples to try out. I'm sure there are cheaper application fluids(home made...), but the stuff has worked for me so I have kept using it.
I was recently in a similar boat, and this forum has tons of great and helpful info! Oracal 651 seems so be a favorite amongst many, sounds very versatile and moderately durable. And it's very reasonably priced (most places), it's what I've been ordering lately.
If you decide to work with Oracal brand, one thing I highly suggest you do is request a FREE color chart from their website:
Go to Products > All products list > scroll down to ORACAL 651 Intermediate Cal and click > then click tab that says "Request Samples & Collateral".
Now it will require you to create log in information, but this chart is well worth it! And it's free, some sites offer to sell it for $10.00. You don't need to be a business, it can be for personal use. The chart they send out also includes color samples and info for all their vinyl, not just 651. Also request sample sheets of their different vinyl.
If you're looking for some specialty films for really snazzy lettering and such, I usually go through Sign Supply & T-Shirt Supply for Vinyl Cutters & Inkjet Printers - Beacon Graphics, LLC I think they're updating their website tonight or tomorrow or something, which is good cause their old website was kinda mazelike! I've gotten some of their holographic vinyl, imitation gold leaf, glitter film, and some other things at a decent price!
It looks like oracal vinyl is the choice and I appreciate all the info on the application fluids and other tips .Thanks to all that contributed to the thread. ..... JB
What printable vinyl do you use for car window decals? Being a new Versacamm owner, I'd like to start selling printed white and clear window stickers.
Do you need to laminate even if you just want short term life (2-3 years) out of the printed vinyl?
For solvent printers, Oracal 3164 or 3165 work well. I use a lot of 3164. I believe they still rate the digital print for 4 years, although I don't know how well it actually holds up in the sun. I have a few items that aren't laminated that have been out in the sun for bout 6 months and they still look fine. For "clear window stickers", get the window perf vinyl as mentioned above. Transparent vinyl doesn't work because you really need an opaque backing, otherwise you won't be able to make out the print.
For solvent printers, Oracal 3164 or 3165 work well. I use a lot of 3164. I believe they still rate the digital print for 4 years, although I don't know how well it actually holds up in the sun. I have a few items that aren't laminated that have been out in the sun for bout 6 months and they still look fine. For "clear window stickers", get the window perf vinyl as mentioned above. Transparent vinyl doesn't work because you really need an opaque backing, otherwise you won't be able to make out the print.
Both of those are listed as having permanent adhesives, for something like sticks wouldn't I want removable adhesive?
I just figured that if people had to scrap and scratch off a sticker they bought from me, they probably wouldn't want to buy a replacement.
I also want to thank all of you who've contributed to this thread. Great information and I look forward being able to pay back with some of my own knowledge, once I figure where I put it.
Car window decal/vinly supplies 
