How to remove vinyl lettering
A frequently asked question that I get on my Etsy shop and other platforms is; how to remove vinyl lettering from the wall (or other surfaces)? This post goes through how to remove vinyl lettering and decals with tips and tricks to make it easier!
Where is the vinyl lettering applied?
Important things to consider is what type of surface i? If the decal is applied to glass – it can be removed more aggressively. Or was it applied to a painted surface? Surfaces that are painted or more delicate may require tools (such as a heat gun or hair dryer) to help with the removal process.
How long and where has it been applied?
Old vinyl decals may be brittle and can crack or chip away – which makes the removal process more difficult. Is the decal exposed to extreme weather or does it sit cozy on the wall inside with ideal temperatures? Decals exposed to harsh sunlight or other weather conditions may break off in pieces. A heat gun or adhesive remover can help in situations like this!
Step 1 – Peeling it off
The first step is to get underneath the vinyl to start peeling it off. First, try with your fingers. Pick at an edge to lift up the corner. If picking with your fingers is difficult, use a blade or sharp spatula to get under the vinyl. However, but be careful not to scratch and ruin your surface!
Once you get underneath the vinyl, slowly peel it away at a sharp angle. Peeling it slow and at a sharp angle reduces the amount of force and pull away from the surface. Peeling it this way not only helps in keeping it together as one piece and not breaking apart, it also helps keep painted surfaces protected so you don’t end up with paint peeling up with the decal!
Continue peeling until the decal letter or word is taken off.
Step 2 – Using tools
Using a sharp blade or spatula can help the peel-up process like we discussed above.
A heat gun or a hot hair dryer is helpful for stubborn decals. When applying heat, it loosens the adhesive bond, making it easier to peel the decal away! Some heat guns can be VERY hot. Be cautious with how close you get to the decal, you don’t want to burn up your wall or paint or melt the decal!
Another method to help remove a stubborn decal is to us adhesive remover – like Goo Gone, or similar. Just be careful that the remover will work safely for your surface and not damage it!
Step 3 – Cleanup
After all the pieces, lettering, words, etc of the vinyl is gone, it’s time to clean up! Take a paper towel or cloth. Rub away at any remaining adhesive. Soap and water can help too! Or Adhesive remover helps speed up this process if you have stubborn leftover adhesive.
Removing vinyl decal lettering from the wall with these steps will make the process more smoothly. For stubborn decals, have patience, go slow, and your surface will be empty of that decal!
