No matter the setting, a home, a business, an educational institution, a store, or an organization, a wall decal installation is a compelling and creative way to add art or direction to the space. Designs span from mural-like imagery to directional text, branding graphics, motivational quotes, and beyond. 

Of course, the overall success of implementing a wall decal comes down to the quality of execution. 

That’s why we’ve compiled the ultimate guide to planning your wall decal project. Here, we’ll cover all the ways you need to prepare before the installation and all the tips and tricks you need to apply smoothly without mistakes. So, to make the most of your design, keep reading to get expert tips from the team at StickerGenius. 

Before You Begin: Wall Decal Installation Prep 

So, you’ve got your heart set on installing a wall decal? The next step is preparing your wall and design. To do so, here are some of the best practices to follow before installation. 

Designing Your Wall Decal

Before you begin preparing your wall for installation, the overall success of your project starts with the design. First and foremost, be sure to choose colors that work with your existing decor or designs. It should also go without saying that the design should match your space’s existing aesthetic. 

For file preparation, large-scale formats are best created using Adobe Illustrator; however, user-friendly platforms at Canva can also help. While your printer will help you with file requirements and formatting, in general, vector formats (AI, EPS) maintain quality at any size, while raster images should maintain at least 300 DPI resolution. 

Remember that print colors (CMYK) may appear slightly different than on-screen colors (RGB). For complex projects, professional designers can translate your vision effectively; just be sure to communicate your expectations and thoroughly review designs before approval clearly. This preparation ensures your wall decal will look exactly as you envisioned.

Measurement Considerations

Getting the measurements right is crucial in many home projects, including wall decal installations. Begin by measuring the exact area where your decal will go, using a tape measure to determine both height and width. Be sure to account for electrical outlets, furniture in the area, and other permanent fixtures that may interfere with your design. 

When determining the ideal size, consider the room's proportions—larger spaces can accommodate bigger decals, while smaller areas need appropriately scaled designs. Before committing, create a physical layout using masking tape to outline where your decal will go. 

This helps visualize the finished result and evaluate how the decal will look from different viewing angles throughout the room. Another pro tip (similar to choosing paint colors!) is to observe how lighting changes throughout the day, as natural and artificial light sources can dramatically affect how your decal appears once installed.

Surface Preparation

Preparing the surface first is crucial to the overall success and longevity of installing a wall decal. Ideal surfaces for application include smooth, clean-painted drywall, glass, or metal, which provide optimal adhesion. Brick, textured walls, or unprimed surfaces present challenges and may require special adhesives or professional installation.

In contrast, freshly painted walls (less than 30 days old), wallpaper, or highly porous materials should generally be avoided. To clean the walls prior to application, thoroughly wash down the surfaces with mild, non-residue cleaners to remove dust, dirt, and oils that can prevent proper adhesion. 

The next part is key: allow surfaces to dry completely—typically 24 hours—and repair any imperfections like nail holes or cracks. Finally, be careful in timing your preparation thoughtfully: clean walls 1-2 days before installation and aim for moderate room temperatures (65-75°F) with humidity between 40-60%. 

Application Tools and Materials

Again, like other jobs, gathering the right tools and supplies before you start will help save you time and frustration. Or reverse mistakes before they get worse! Essential tools for the application process include: 

• A plastic squeegee or credit card (we’ll cover why, next!) 
• A level to achieve perfectly straight alignment
• A tape measure and pencil for precise positioning
• Scissors or a craft knife for trimming excess material when needed. 

While not absolutely necessary for your wall decal installation, several additional tools can significantly ease the process: painter's tape helps hold the decal in position during initial placement, a sturdy step stool or ladder ensures safe access to higher wall areas, and an extra pair of hands is invaluable when working with larger decals, which can be unwieldy and difficult to manage solo. 

Having these tools organized and ready before you begin will make the installation process smoother and more professional-looking.

Application Tips for Wall Decal Installation 

Learning from those who have conquered wall decal installations before you can help you avoid some of the most common mistakes. To finish our guide, here are the top tips for smoothly applying your wall decal installation. 

1. Take your time: Most application errors happen when installers try to finish too quickly. Set aside ample time to work thoroughly and methodically.
2. Clean thoroughly (then clean again!): While we already touched upon cleaning, we cannot stress enough how residual dust is the enemy of adhesion. Most failed installations trace back to inadequate surface preparation.
3. Control your environment: It’s best to avoid applying decals during extreme temperatures or high humidity, which can prevent proper adhesion and cause bubbling.
4. Start from the center: Beginning in the middle and working your way out prevents misalignment and reduces trapped air bubbles.
5. Use tools: The best way to apply wall decals without stretching the vinyl is to use a credit card or squeegee at an angle. Simply apply firmly with even pressure at a 45-degree angle rather than straight on.
6. Avoid touching the adhesive side: Despite washing your hands, oils can remain on your skin and fingers, compromising the adhesive’s stickiness. Instead, be sure to handle decals by the edges or backing paper.
7. Address air bubbles immediately: Remove air bubbles as you go rather than at the end when the adhesive has already set.
8. Start small: With larger decals, peeling and applying in manageable increments prevents overwhelming stretching or misalignment.
9. Keep a hairdryer handy: Gentle heat can increase vinyl flexibility when working around curves or correcting minor positioning errors.
10. Wait 24-48 hours before cleaning: Allowing proper curing time prevents edge lifting and adhesion failure that many first-time installers experience.

Sourcing Quality Wall Decals at StickerGenius 

Of course, the first requirement for any successful wall decal installation project is sourcing a quality wall decal. Luckily, you’re in the right place! StickerGenius is the leading provider of top-quality stickers, wall decals, and beyond. If you want to stick it, we’ve got it! From repositionable materials to vinyl, holographic, and transparent, we help you bring your wall decal or sticker vision to life. 

Learn more about our materials or products now by browsing our gallery of past work or getting in touch with our team directly. Want more tips and tricks for using stickers to your advantage at home or work? Continue diving deep into the world of wall decals and more with our complete collection of resources and guides. 
Don’t forget! Connect with StickerGenius on Instagram or Facebook before you go to be the first to know about new products, guides, promotions, and more.