I'm just wondering if anyone here has experience wrapping a car on their own. I like the idea, but don't want something horrible to go wrong if I mess up. Usually I would just go to a local shop to get the job done, but my small budget and desire to try it on my own has kept me away from that. I plan on starting with my dad's 1986 Mazda b2000, and then hopefully move up to my Fiat. I know where to buy all the supplies except the vinyl. Anyone know of websites that can ship it to my house?

Thanks in advance for feedback.

 

Have you ever tinted window on a car befor? I hear it's similar. It's a good idea to practice on another car first.

 

No I haven't. I watched some video's on youtube and it looks like applying a clear bra is very similar to applying a window tint. The video's where they applied the vinyl they just used a heat gun.

Carbon Fiber Vinyl Hood Wrap installation by metrorestyling.com using 3m 1080 install help video - YouTube

 

I have completely matte black wrapped a 2005 Infiniti G35. Vinyl wrapping a car is very much like applying tint.

Here is my advice:

1. Thoroughly wash and wax your car before applying the vinyl. If you fail to do so, you can be sure that you will ruin at least the clear coat of your paint.

2. Be patient. Wrapping a car takes approximately 40 hours.

3. Do not use a heat gun. Use a small hair dryer on the lowest setting. Using a hair dryer will allow you more time to smooth out the vinyl and to remove any bubbles.