Vinyl Decals Under Base / Clear

I know there are a couple vinal guys on forum so here is a question:

I want to do some decals that i can bury under some base / clear so that it will look like the metal is embossed out. Sort of like the later Impala SS. Is there a good brand or type of film that stand up to modern base clears? Would like to put a sealer over it too. Going for a real subtle look.

Thoughts?

3M Premium vinyl (3 mil) is about the best...

Most clearcoats are waterborne now, and lacquer is out, so they are a lot easier on the vinyl.
The "PTeazer" had some cleared over vinyl, and bikes (Honda, Suzuki, etc.) have had graphics applied w/ clear from the factory for a while...

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As you may have also noticed, I have some design experience also.
If you need anything, I have some spare time. Would be glad to help...

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I had a sport bike that had "suzuki" under clear on the tank and it was raised. I think they do that because fuel and vinyl dont go well if its spilled or the fact that the tank is touched alot?

I actually want to put the decals under the base coat. Or sealer then base then clear. 3 mil would be a nice size for a very stelth look.

Dupont Chromabase to be specific.

944-LT1 wrote:I had a sport bike that had "suzuki" under clear on the tank and it was raised. I think they do that because fuel and vinyl dont go well if its spilled...

'Xactly...

944v8inDFW wrote:Dupont Chromabase to be specific.

I'll see if I can find an MSDS...

Basecoat should have the same basic properties, but I haven't seen vinyl "based" over.
Doesn't mean it can't happen...[we love experimenting!]

944v8inDFW wrote:I actually want to put the decals under the base coat. Or sealer then base then clear. 3 mil would be a nice size for a very stealth look.

From 3M:

3M Scotchcal Graphic Film Series 7725

3M Series 7725 Cast Vinyl
Scotchcal™ Electrocut™ Film
2.0 Mil - 7 Years for Signs
2.0 Mil - 8 Years for Vehicles
[*Adhesive typically is ~1 Mil thick]

3M’s premium 2 mil. opaque cast vinyl designed for pre-spaced, electronically cut graphics, emblems, cables, commercial vehicle graphics and interior/exterior graphics. Vinyl construction is a 2 MIL. opaque film with a clear pressure sensitive adhesive on a clear/transparent synthetic release liner. This synthetic liner is for improved cutting, weeding, lay flat characteristics and multi-color registration.

For prespaced, cut graphics on electronically controlled, friction-fed or flatbed cutters for emblems, vehicles, labels, striping, signs, & two-way window markings. Transparent synthetic liner resists moisture absorption and static buildup, lays flat for easier assembly of multicolor graphics, allows superior cutting/weeding. Pressure sensitive film adheres well to flat or simple curved surfaces.

Digital prints have been cleared over with multiple manufacturers of automotive clear coats with great success, and the base coats are similar in chemical composition. Base over vinyl shouldn't be a problem, although paint longevity may be subject to the life of the vinyl underneath it.

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Greg, Where can I order the white paper that covers the vinyl lettering . You know what I mean, the low adhesion stuff that the letters stick too, to keep the straight so you can install them.

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BeaconGraphics.com

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TransferRite compares to 3M as far as quality, warranty, etc.

High Tack is what it says...Medium Tack should work for what you need.
[Clear works OK on flat surfaces, but is basically high tack...]