Side by Side Refrigerator Wrap
Custom printed vinyl wrap
Watch and learn how to wrap a side by side fridge using a custom printed vinyl sticker.
Transforming an Old Dirt Side-by-Side Refrigerator with a Custom-Printed Vinyl Sticker
Upgrading an old, worn-out refrigerator can breathe new life into your kitchen without the expense of buying a new appliance. Randy recently demonstrated this by wrapping his side-by-side refrigerator with a custom-printed vinyl sticker. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how he did it, showcasing two different installation techniques.
Step 1: Clean the Refrigerator
Before applying the vinyl, it’s crucial to ensure that the surface is thoroughly cleaned. Randy started by using Invisible Glass Cleaner, a product known for leaving no residue, which is essential for a smooth vinyl application. He used a lint-free towel to wipe down the entire surface, removing any dirt, grease, or fingerprints. This step is critical because any debris left on the surface can cause bubbles or an uneven finish.
Step 2: Repair and Smooth the Surface
Randy’s refrigerator had some damage on the left side, particularly around the ice maker door area. To ensure a smooth application, he used Bondo to fill in the imperfections and make the surface flat again. After applying the Bondo, he sanded it down until it was smooth and level with the rest of the door. This preparation is necessary to avoid any noticeable bumps or dips once the vinyl is applied.
Step 3: Apply Primer 94
To enhance the adhesive properties of the vinyl, Randy applied Primer 94 around the edges of the refrigerator. This primer helps the vinyl stick better, especially in areas that might be prone to lifting or peeling. Using a brush, he carefully applied the primer along the edges where the vinyl would be most stressed.
Step 4: Install the Custom-Printed Vinyl Wraps
With the refrigerator prepped and ready, Randy moved on to the vinyl application. He used two different techniques to install the wraps on each door.
Right Door: Tacking On Strip Method
Position the Vinyl: Randy first positioned the vinyl on the right door, ensuring it was properly aligned.
Tacking: He used a tacking strip technique, which involves temporarily securing the top edge of the vinyl to the door with a small strip piece.
Peel and Stick: Starting from the top, Randy peeled the backing paper down a few inches and pressed the vinyl onto the door. He continued peeling the backing and smoothing the vinyl as he worked his way down, using a squeegee to eliminate air bubbles and ensure a smooth finish.
Left Door: Peel-Down Method
Align the Vinyl: For the left door, Randy aligned the vinyl in the correct position.
Peel Backing Paper: Instead of using a tacking strip, he peeled back a small section of the backing paper at the top.
Smooth Application: Holding the top of the vinyl in place, he gradually pulled the backing paper down while smoothing the vinyl onto the door. This method allowed him to adjust and reposition the vinyl as needed to avoid bubbles and creases.
By demonstrating both techniques, Randy showed that there are multiple ways to achieve a professional-looking finish when applying vinyl wraps.
Final Thoughts
Wrapping an old refrigerator with custom-printed vinyl stickers is an excellent DIY project that can revitalize your kitchen and give your appliances a personalized touch. With proper cleaning, surface preparation, and the right installation technique, you can achieve a stunning, long-lasting result. Whether you prefer the tacking on strip method or the peel-down approach, the key is to work slowly and carefully to ensure a smooth, bubble-free application. Happy wrapping!
Side by side fridge with a custom printed vinyl wrap on it.
