ArtiFIX Application Instructions - English

ArtiFIX by Arthouse is a PVC self-adhesive vinyl, perfect for up-cycling furniture and hard surfaces to give a new lease of life. It is also great for use in crafting projects, making it truly multifunctional. It is easy to apply and doesn’t require any special tools or skills.

ArtiFIX

Here you'll find our step by step guide on how to apply our ArtiFIX vinyl.

Getting started

Tools

Tool list:

  • Plastic squeegee blade
  • Sharp craft knife or scissors
  • Pencil
  • Ruler/tape measure

Additional

  • Sandpaper (for smoothing the surface)
  • Cloth/sponge (for cleaning any dirt)
  • Hairdryer (for curved or moulded surfaces)

Application

Sanding

1. Surfaces should be flat, firm and smooth. Sanding any bumps down and wiping away the dust.

Cleaning

2. Ensure all surfaces are free from dirt, dust, loose paint, grease etc. as they will affect adhesion. We would always advise the best way to prepare is to vacuum the surface to remove dust and any loose material and then thoroughly clean the surface and leave to dry. Porous surfaces e.g. MDF need to be primed.

Measure

3. Measure the surface to be covered and cut the vinyl to size.

Peeling

4. Peel back the release paper at one corner approx. 4 inch (10 cm).

Application

5. Carefully position the vinyl along one edge. Peel back the release paper and press the adhesive vinyl onto the surface.

Squeegee

6. Use the squeegee to smooth down the surface from the centre to the edges to remove any air bubbles.

Air bubble

7. If you find an air bubble when the vinyl has been applied; simply prick the bubble with a pin to release the air and smooth out with the squeegee.

Corners

8. For corners cut your ArtiFIX, into the corner and wrap underneath, then with the other section cut off the excess up to the corner.

Top Tip

Apply gentle heat using a hairdryer to soften the vinyl when covering curved or moulded surfaces. Do not overheat, as this will melt the vinyl.

 

FAQs

What tools do I need?

ArtiFIX Self Adhesive Vinyl can easily be cut with scissors or a craft knife.  A tape measure or ruler for measuring.  Use a plastic squeegee for flattening the surface and removing air bubbles during application.  A hairdryer is useful for applying gentle heat to the vinyl when covering curved or moulded surfaces.​​​​​​​

What surfaces can ArtiFIX be applied to?

Surfaces should free from dirt, dust, loose paint, grease, wax etc. as they will affect adhesion. Thoroughly clean the surface and leave to dry. Porous surfaces e.g. MDF need to be primed. Avoid using on textured surfaces.

How can I avoid bubbles when applying ArtiFIX?

Bubbles are caused when air gets trapped between the surface to be covered and the ArtiFIX vinyl. Take your time when applying ArtiFIX. Only remove small area of the backing paper and flatten the vinyl completely with a plastic squeegee before moving onto the next section.

How do I remove bubbles?

Simply prick the bubble with a pin to release the air and smooth out with the squeegee.

Can ArtiFIX be applied to rounded edges or moulded surfaces?

Yes. Apply gentle heat using a hairdryer to soften the vinyl when covering curved or moulded surfaces. Do not overheat, as this will melt the vinyl. The softened vinyl will allow you to gently stretch it around curved surfaces and edges but take care not to over stretch it.

What is the operating temperature range for ArtiFIX?

The operating temperature range is -10ᵒ C to 30ᵒ C

Can ArtiFIX be used on kitchen worktops?

Although ArtiFIX is heat resistant to a maximum of 100°C for short periods of time, we do not recommend direct contact with hot pans or dishes.

Can ArtiFIX be used in high moisture areas?

Yes, ArtiFIX is a vinyl based material and is therefore waterproof. In areas, like bathrooms, where there is a risk of regular direct contact with water, you may need to seal the edges with silicone sealant.​​​​​​​ Leave the sealant to dry for 24 hours.

How do you remove ArtiFIX?

ArtiFIX can usually be removed by hand by pulling away from an edge or corner. Sometimes you may need to gently heat the surface with a hair dryer to soften the vinyl and glue. Use a alcohol based cleanser to remove any glue residue from the surface. Always patch test a small area first.

How do I clean ArtiFIX?

Clean using warm soapy water and a sponge. Avoid strong cleaning chemicals and bleach. Avoid heavy abrasion.