Are you looking for an easy way to customize your car? You can use Cricut Window Cling to create beautiful car decals! It’s perfect for anyone looking to add some personal flair to their ride!
In this article, we’ll discuss if Cricut Window Cling works on cars and how to make sure that your design looks perfect.
Does Cricut Window Cling Work on Cars?
Window cling can be a great option for showcasing your personality or just adding some fun designs to glass windows.
But does Cricut window cling work on cars? The answer is yes!
There are just a few things you need to know to use it properly:
- Cricut window cling does indeed work on cars. But the design needs to be placed on the window from the inside.
- You’ll also need to do a “mirror cut”. This will make the design or text readable when viewed from the outside.
In this article, we’ll explore the uses of Cricut window cling for cars. I’ll answer any other questions you may have about using this product.
What is window cling, and how does it work?
Window cling is a bit similar to removable vinyl. It’s a special thin film that doesn’t have a layer of glue.
It adheres to a window using static electricity.
In fact, it sticks to any smooth hard surfaces and goes off easily when you want to remove it.
Static electricity causes it to bond with glass and remain in place.
Window cling is usually made from a semi-transparent plastic material or vinyl.
This allows the window to stay see-through even with this decoration on.
Plus, this plastic material is easy to cut into shapes and custom designs. Especially using a Cricut machine.
The cling is an excellent choice for temporary window decorations or advertisements.
It can be easily removed without leaving any marks on the surface.
Plus, you can reposition it onto another area, and it won’t lose its adhesive quality.
Window cling is an excellent alternative to traditional car decals due to its versatility and ease of application.
However, window cling is not designed for permanent installation.
So the decals will not last as long as traditional vinyl car decals with adhesive backing.
What window cling is best to cut with Cricut?
Cricut’s own Window Cling is the perfect one for adding a unique and personalized touch to your car windows.
This reusable and removable material is easy to handle and can be cut with all Cricut machines.
It’s great for adding text and graphics to car windows.
And you can change up your vehicle’s look in seconds.
Window Cling is also perfect for adding a festive touch to your car windows around holidays.
Making custom stickers with Window Cling is simple.
And you can create a wide variety of decal styles and sizes.
How to Make Window Cling Decals for Cars with Cricut
Cricut is designed for precision cutting of vinyl, fabric, paper, and other materials.
This machine is also a great tool for creating custom decals for car windows.
Here’s how to cut cling film with it:
Tools and supplies you’ll need for cutting window cling for cars
Mat and blade
When cutting window cling with Cricut, use the StandardGrip mat and Fine Point blade for best results.
The StandardGrip mat provides the ideal surface for holding the cling in place for accurate cutting.
And the Fine Point blade is specially designed to cut thin materials.
Settings
Use the “Window Cling” setting for cutting this material with Cricut Explore or Maker.
That way the machine will use medium pressure and medium speed for a precise cut with minimal damage to the material.
Plus, this preset will employ the kiss cut setting.
So the cut will only go through the window cling material, leaving the liner intact.
When preparing the decal image for cutting in Design Space don’t forget to toggle the Mirror switch ON in the Prepare screen.
This will help you to transfer the cut image to the car’s window correctly.
How to cut window cling with Cricut step-by-step
- First, purchase the window cling material and make sure the Cricut machine is compatible with it.
- Next, design the decal or load the design in the Cricut Design Space app and mirror your art.
- Make sure to adjust the settings on the machine to the correct material type.
- Then, place the window cling material onto the cutting mat, smooth it out with a brayer, and load it into the machine.
- Press “go” to send the project to the Cricut machine.
- After the design is cut, unload the mat, carefully remove the excess material, and weed away any negative space.
- Finally, apply the decal to the inside of the car window, pressing firmly to ensure adhesion. Use a scraper to smooth out the film on the glass and to get rid of air bubbles. After that, remove the liner.
How to apply Cricut Window Cling to a car window?
Applying window cling to a car window from the inside is a relatively simple task that should take no more than 10 minutes.
But first, to help your car window cling decals stay on well, it’s important to properly prepare the window’s inside surface.
- Start by cleaning the car window thoroughly with a glass cleaner and a lint-free cloth.
- Make sure there is no dust, dirt or debris that could interfere with the cling sticking.
- Once the window is completely clean and dry, you can apply the decal.
- Carefully place part of the cling onto the window surface inside the car, smoothing out any air bubbles. Peel the backing layer off.
- Apply the decal slowly and carefully, starting from one corner and working your way out.
- Finally, using a Cricut scraper or a similar object, press down the cling and burnish it to make sure it is firmly affixed to the window.
Car window cling project ideas
Decals are stickers that can be cut to any shape, size, or color, and they can be used to display messages, logos, or artwork.
Window cling car window decal projects are a great way to customize your vehicle and add a personal touch.
Here are some project ideas to consider:
- Create a personalized car sticker featuring a favorite quote, saying, or a meaningful phrase.
- Create a custom logo for a car club or organization.
- Cut out a family crest or other family symbol for display on the car.
- Create a favorite sports team logo cutout.
- Make a decal to promote a business.
- Show off your taste in music or movies by cutting out decals related to your favorite movie or band.
- Make a design or message to show off your hobbies and interests.
- Make multiple sets of decals and clings to give away as gifts or to sell.
How long does the window cling last when applied to a car window?
The longevity largely depends on the type of cling and the care it receives.
Clings that adhere with static electricity can last for months when taken care of properly.
For example, you need to avoid touching the film with your hands.
This is because oils from your skin can weaken and loosen the cling’s adhesive bond.
In addition to that, keeping the decal away from direct sunlight and heat can help it last even longer without fading.
The duration of the window cling’s life depends on several factors.
For example, on the quality of the material, the intensity of the sunlight, and the environment in which the car is kept.
How do you remove it when the time comes?
When the time comes to remove window cling from cars, the process is simple and straightforward.
Start by gently lifting one corner of the film.
Then carefully peel it away from the window surface.
Generally, window cling will come away cleanly with no residue left behind.
However, if any residue accidentally remains, it can be washed off with a damp cloth or sponge and a mild detergent.
After you’ve finished, you can also clean the window with a glass cleaner spray and a microfiber cloth.
How do you store the window cling when not in use on cars?
Proper storage will help to ensure its longevity and reusability:
1. Keep it flat.
Window cling should be stored flat, or it will curve.
Always lay it flat without any creases or folds.
To do this, start by placing the cling onto a clean and dry surface such as a piece of cardboard.
Once the cling is laid out, cover it with a second piece of cardboard and place the cardboard in a safe, dry place.
If you’re using Cricut’s line of window cling, use the liner that it comes with for convenient storing.
Alternative methods involve adhering the film to a piece of plastic.
Or placing it between two sheets of wax paper.
These methods will help to keep it free from dust and other debris.
2. Prevent humidity.
Also, window cling should completely dry before you store it away.
Plus, keep it in a cool dry place away from heat and humidity.
This will prevent any mildew or mold from forming and let it maintain its stickiness.
3. Find a good place to store it.
Avoid storing window cling in an area with direct sunlight, as this may cause it to fade and deteriorate quickly.
To ensure even more protection, store it in an airtight container, such as a plastic bag or a sealed archival box.
If the film is being stored for a long period of time, change the wax paper every six months to avoid any dust or dirt buildup.
With the right care, window cling can be stored for quite a while without losing its effectiveness.
Alternatives to Window Cling Decals for Car Applications
Window cling decals are a super-popular choice for car decorations.
The best thing about them is that they’re easy to apply and remove.
However, you can only apply them inside the car’s windows.
If you’re looking for something you can apply to your car’s exterior, there are a few alternatives.
For example, vinyl decals or stencil art.
- Vinyl cut decals are a great option if you’re looking for a more permanent decoration.
They’re also very durable and resistant to weather damage.
- Paint stencils are ideal for those who want a custom look for their car and don’t mind taking the time to apply them.
Plus, paint holds even better than any decal. Although it’s difficult to remove.
Final thoughts
So there you have it, Cricut window cling can be used on cars to add a fun and personalized touch.
Just remember to place the design on the inside of the window and do a mirror cut for optimal results.
Window cling can be a fun way to decorate your car windows for a special occasion or just for fun.
Cricut window cling is durable and easy to use, and it can be cut into custom designs. So give it a try and you won’t be disappointed!
