How to Achieve a Smooth, Professional Finish with JSW Design Line
As with any job, the most popular tools are those that help users save time and work more efficiently. Vehicle wrapping is no different with knifeless tape becoming a staple for professional installers thanks to the precision and safety it brings to the vinyl application process. Among the commonly used options on the market is JSW DesignLine Knifeless Tape, engineered specifically for flexibility to deliver clean, contoured cuts.
Step 1: Laying the Design Line
The first step to a flawless result is applying the design line smoothly and evenly, with as little tension as possible. This helps prevent distortion and ensures consistent, reliable results.
Step 2: Securing the Line
Once the design line is positioned, it’s important to go back over it, applying light pressure to guarantee full contact and adhesion. This step is essential for achieving crisp, clean edges.
Step 3: Applying the Vinyl
With the design line secure, the vinyl can be applied over the top. Running a finger firmly along the line helps define the cut area beneath the vinyl, setting up a sharper, more professional finish.
Step 4: Breaking the Filament
To begin cutting with the design line, the filament needs to be broken through the carrier. This is done by folding the filament back on itself, pinching the top, and giving it a swift downward pull to release the line.
Step 5: Removing Excess and Addressing the Step
After removing both sides of the carrier, it’s normal to notice a slight step in the vinyl along the cut edge. This can be easily resolved in the next step.
Step 6: Relaxing the Vinyl
A heat gun is used to apply gentle warmth over the stepped area, allowing the vinyl to relax and smooth out any imperfections before final application.
Step 7: Sealing the Edges
Finally, the edges are sealed using a heat gun and glove. Running over all edges one last time ensures everything is pressed down firmly, leaving behind a neat, premium-quality finish.
With the right technique and the JSW Design Line, installers can achieve clean, professional results with ease. Stay tuned for more practical tips from the Graphic Art Mart technical team to help perfect every project.
What is knifeless Tape?
Knifeless tape is a self-adhesive tape embedded with a fine filament that replaces the need for traditional cutting methods during vinyl installation. Instead of cutting vinyl with knives or blades, which pose the risk of accidental damage to the vehicle's paint, installers lay knifeless tape beneath the vinyl. When pulled, the filament slices cleanly through the material without ever touching the surface beneath. This method not only minimises risk, but also enhances precision and speed, making knifeless tape an essential tool for professional wrap installers.
Like many tools, variations exist that have been designed to excel in specific applications. JSW DesignLine Knifeless Tape is ‘designed’ for flexibility, allowing installers to freely create various curved and contoured shapes while still producing a nice, clean-cut finish. While it is perfect for cutting through your standard colour vinyls, more care may be needed when cutting through thicker vinyls (carbon fibre, textured and chrome finishes).
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