I just acquired a black piece of vinyl that im planning to use for the dot matrix in the rear window. im wondering what is the best way to attach the sheet and measure for a template. I tried measuring from the inside but being upside and curved it seems alittle difficult. Im thinking about measure the outside of the window for the template since its symmetrical then bring it inside for minor adjustments then use the template on the actual piece of vinyl (one shot deal since dont have enough to mess up). What do you guys think? i was going to do it today but i lack material for a template will try again later this week?

Possibly lay it on the outside of the windsheild (without removing the backing to expose sticky side) and cut with a razor blade leaving about 1 inch on each side. Then apply it to the inside of the car and trim edges carefully.

Either that, or experiment with newspaper first - once you get a good template, cut vinyl accordingly.

Or call the nearest tint shop and ask them about the vinyl and how they apply it. Tell them that you like the look of it but:

"Another shop did your buddy's windsheild and the cut seemed to be off....how do you cut your vinyl? Straight across or will it have a curve to it? I am always afraid of razor blades slicing into my car, do you use one? You do, oh, is that while the vinyl is on the windshield or before it goes on?"

Possibly lay it on the outside of the windsheild (without removing the backing to expose sticky side) and cut with a razor blade leaving about 1 inch on each side. Then apply it to the inside of the car and trim edges carefully.

Either that, or experiment with newspaper first - once you get a good template, cut vinyl accordingly.

Or call the nearest tint shop and ask them about the vinyl and how they apply it. Tell them that you like the look of it but:

"Another shop did your buddy's windsheild and the cut seemed to be off....how do you cut your vinyl? Straight across or will it have a curve to it? I am always afraid of razor blades slicing into my car, do you use one? You do, oh, is that while the vinyl is on the windshield or before it goes on?"

Im planning to cut the vinyl curved with the lines of the window. If i make the template from the outside and making final adjustments on the inside i think it should work out fine. Im planning to cut the vinyl perfectly before applying it so no cuts are make from the inside

ok heres the trick, cut it straight for the bottom part ( Off the car). apply it straight from the bottom as well make sure you get out any bubbles etc... then cut the overage at the top where it isnt seen thus your lower line is straight and contours properly.... now in tinting they use the heat gun to contract it you can do the same even with a hair dryer... the trick is apply it wet with soap and water in a spray bottle... 1 "drop" of soap per 12 ounces of water
JJ :)

Do you mean using the bottom of the glass to measure the curve of the bottom part of the vinyl when i stick it on top?

I think he means to cut the bottom side of the vinyl strip in a straight line, then apply, then the top portion will need small slits in it to compensate for the curve.

I have my vinyl on the outside...check some of my older posts for pics...I think it is cut flat on the top and then a curve / arc on the bottom side.

thanks for the info

aww your not gonna post pictures of your car again? ;)

What vinyl do you buy and where can you get it. I was planning the same for mine but didn't know what to use.

correct but , I wouldnt slit it I would heat it and try to shink it...

What vinyl do you buy and where can you get it. I was planning the same for mine but didn't know what to use.

i got the piece of vinyl free from my friend that owns a printing shop, he normally use the vinyl for posters and banners so i dont know how well its going to work. ill post pictures when i get it done, been working late and havent had the time to get to it

alright so i tried it this weekend and i ****ed up major air bubble in the middle that i couldnt get rid of and end up pealing it off. Now my problem is that after i remove the vinyl i probably scraped the tint too hard and i see light and dark areas where the dot matrixs is. Damn i think i jacked up my rear tint and ill have to get it redone.

Note to self: Do not scrape the dot matrix tint too hard because you will pwn yourself in the face. Next time hire a professional