Using Clear Contact paper vs Transfer Paper vs Masking Tape

[ncborn]

I am pretty new at all this but I wanted to just post some things I have found and do not remember seeing. Many have posted using contact paper, transfer paper and masking tape for transferring lettering to walls etc.
1. I just had a very bad experience with the easy removable clear contact for transferring vinyl letters to a wall. For future reference using removable vinyl the clear contact will not come loose from the vinyl maybe because it has a different surface (not shiny) like other non removable vinyl. This wasted almost a whole 12x12 piece of vinyl.
2. I also had a bad experience with different card stock. the masking tape will not come off of some types of card stock. I tried both kinds of masking tape. I think I even used the transfer paper and had a hard time with it too. I really don't know the difference in the card stock but some is a little stiffer than others.

If anyone has any suggestions or other tips please help us newbees with reference to transferring and/or other tools or supplies as we really appreciate the tips and suggestions from your experiences.

[jrichards]

I have had some luck with the clear plastic cover that goes over your cutting mat. Lightly coat it with Zig glue, and only Zig glue. Then lay it over your design and lift slowly. It may not all come up but because the plastic is clear you can work with it to make sure it all comes up. I am confused about the cardstock though. Were you trying to lift it with tape etc.? If you were that will not work. Try the same thing with the plastic cover. Cardstock, like most paper is made in different weights so some of it is thicker than others. You should be able to find out the weight on the package or ask where you buy it.

[firstcut]

Contact paper has to be roughed up a little by sticking it to a clean t-shirt or something first to de-sticky it a little before you use it on vinyl. Same goes for masking tape. Contact paper also can not be left on the vinyl very long or the adhesive will set up so don't put it on until you are ready to put it on the wall. If you are going to be doing much wall vinyl, get some clear transfer tape from h&H, uscutter or signwarehouse. It is well worth it.

For cardstock, the commercial transfer tape is safe for cardstock (had no luck with masking tape or contact paper although I am told there is one brand of blue tape that works), but if you want something cheap, easily obtained, and strong enough to pull cardstock shapes off the mat in position, try drywall mesh.
video instrux:
http://cleversomeday.wordpress.com/2009 ... technique/
step by step instrux:
http://cleversomeday.wordpress.com/2009 ... cardstock/

[leadyouhomeoriginals]

I use drywall tape. It comes in a 2in roll. You can get it at Lowe's. It is very handy. I use the contact paper de stickyed on the vinyl.

[ncborn]

Thank you all so much. I know this will help. Wish I had known this before but it will help for all future projects.