Vinyl on Bubble Balloons

by Lauren
(London)

Has any one got any tips please. I have inflated my 24inch deco bubble, I put my vinyl on to personalise, but when I peel my transfer tape off, it marks my balloon! I have tried taking the tac off my transfer tape so its less sticky, but this isnt working. Any ideas?? Thanks

ANSWER

Hi Lauren,

I came across this video from Chris Adamo and thought it might help.

It's mostly about how to ensure that the text or image you put on the deco bubble is centralized, using a simple device made of cardboard, but he also talks about applying the vinyl.



For example, around 3 minutes into the video he says he uses "very low tac" transfer tape to avoid causing damage to the balloon.

Starting at about 7:30 minutes you can watch how he applies the vinyl characters. You can see how he very gently pushes down on the characters only, and tries to avoid pushing the rest of the transfer paper onto the deco bubble.

Hope that helps!

Margit

Using Transfer Tape for Vinyl Balloons: Answers to Frequently Asked Questions

What is tack transfer tape?

Transfer tape, also known as application tape or "tack transfer tape," is a type of adhesive tape used in the process of transferring vinyl decals and other materials to a surface, for example walls, ceramics or balloons.

The tape holds the vinyl in place while you're applying it. Once the vinyl is properly positioned you'll remove the tape — carefully and slowly, so that you don't damage the vinyl.

Transfer tape is typically made of a clear, paper or polyester backing that is coated with a low-tack adhesive. This enables you to lift the vinyl and reposition it during the application process.

Is Cricut transfer tape high tack?

The popular brand Cricut offers transfer tapes in high and standard tack (also called grip). For working with balloons, it's best to use standard or low tack transfer tapes.

Here's an example of a Cricut standard grip transfer tape that's highly rated on Amazon:

What can I use if I don't have transfer tape?

If you don't have transfer tape and want to apply vinyl letters to balloons, here are two alternatives materials you can use:

Painters tape, like for example the 3M Scotch Blue Painters Tape, which is available in different widths, so you can use it with small to medium sized vinyl designs.

Strong plastic food wrap, like the Glad Press'n Seal Plastic Food Wrap. I've seen it used on both latex and foil balloons and it seemed to work well.

Is there a trick to transfer tape?

Applying vinyl letters or stickers to balloons can be tricky. Here are a few tips to help you master this art faster:

1. Place the transfer tape on a clean microfiber cloth and remove it again to make it less sticky.

2. Cut slits on all sides of the transfer tape (avoiding the vinyl) to make it adapt better to the round surface of a balloon.

3. Wipe down the balloon with baby wipes to remove powder coating and dust, then wipe dry with the microfiber cloth.

4. Stick the vinyl with the transfer tape down from the middle of the design first, then slowly work your way out towards the edges.

5. Use a squeegee to apply the vinyl evenly.

6. Remove the transfer tape slowly, starting at one edge of your design and working gently towards the other edge.

Want to see the above tips in action? Watch this excellent video by DIY Craft Tutorials.



The most important tip? Take your time and don't become discouraged if it doesn't work perfectly the first few times.

If you're new to using transfer tape, you may want to practice on a flat surface before applying the vinyl to a balloon. This will give you a chance to get comfortable with the technique.