Custom decals are the fastest, most affordable way to brand a vehicle, dress up a storefront, or personalize gear you already own. Since 2003, Hoosier Decal has cut and printed custom decals in the USA, everything from a single die-cut logo to bulk runs for fleets and retailers. This guide walks through the decal types we make, the vinyl we use, how to size and price an order, and how to apply your decals so they last. When you are ready, design online in minutes or upload your own artwork for a free proof.
Types of Custom Decals We Make
A decal is any vinyl graphic with an adhesive backing. The right format depends on your design, the surface, and whether you need a single color or full color. Here is how the main types compare.
| Type | How it is made | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Die-cut decals | Cut to the exact outline of your art, no background | Logos, mascots, shaped designs |
| Cut vinyl lettering | Letters weeded from solid color vinyl, applied with transfer tape | Names, phone numbers, single-color text |
| Printed decals | Full-color print, often laminated for protection | Logos with gradients, photos, multi-color art |
| Transfer decals | Multi-piece designs applied as one with transfer tape | Words and logos that must stay aligned |
| Reflective decals | Reflective film that lights up under headlights | Safety markings, low-light visibility |
Not sure which fits? Tell us the surface and the look you want and we will recommend the format.
Material and Durability
The vinyl is what separates a decal that lasts five years from one that peels in five months. We use sign-grade cast and calendered film, not the thin craft vinyl sold in big-box stores.
- Premium vinyl rated 5 to 7 years outdoors, longer when applied to a clean surface and kept out of constant sun.
- UV-resistant pigments and inks so reds and dark colors do not fade or chalk.
- Strong adhesive that bonds to glass, metal, painted panels, and plastic, then removes cleanly later.
- Indoor and outdoor grades, plus optional laminate on printed decals for extra scratch and chemical resistance.
If you are weighing grades and budget, our guide on standard vs premium vs reflective vinyl breaks down which one fits your project.
Sizing and Pricing
Custom decals are priced by size and quantity, so a small laptop logo costs far less than a large door graphic, and per-piece cost drops as quantity climbs. A few pointers before you order:
- Measure the space first and order the decal to fit, rather than guessing and trimming later.
- Readability: as a rule of thumb, one inch of letter height reads clearly from about 10 feet away. For vehicle doors and storefront text, see our letter sizing guide.
- Bulk orders lower the per-decal price, which is why businesses order in runs of 25, 50, or 100.
Need a price on a specific design or large quantity? Request a quote and we will turn it around fast.
How to Apply a Custom Decal
Application is simple when you prep the surface properly. Most failures trace back to a dirty surface, not the vinyl.
- Clean the surface with isopropyl alcohol and let it dry. Skip household cleaners that leave a residue.
- Position the decal with light pressure and check alignment before committing.
- Squeegee from the center outward to push out air bubbles.
- For cut vinyl with transfer tape, peel the tape away slowly at a sharp angle.
- Wait 24 hours before washing or exposing the decal to water.
How to Order Custom Decals
Design online
Type your text, pick fonts and colors, and preview in real time with our vinyl lettering designer. It is the fastest way to order made-to-order decals and you see exactly what you get before checkout.
Upload your artwork
Already have a logo or design? Upload your artwork and we will prepare production-ready files and send a proof before we cut or print.
Popular Uses for Custom Decals
- Vehicles: truck doors, tailgates, and windows. See custom truck lettering and car decals.
- Business: storefronts, packaging, fleet branding, and giveaways.
- Boats: names, graphics, and registration numbers.
- Personal: laptops, tumblers, helmets, and hobby builds. Also see our custom vinyl stickers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a decal and a sticker?
For most orders they mean the same thing: a vinyl graphic with adhesive backing. A decal often refers to cut vinyl lettering or a transfer-applied design, while a sticker usually comes printed on its own backing. We make both and will steer you to the right one.
Can I order custom decals made to order in any size?
Yes. We cut and print to your exact dimensions. Measure your space and order to fit, and we can scale your artwork up or down to match.
How long do custom decals last outdoors?
Premium vinyl is rated 5 to 7 years outdoors. Real-world life depends on sun exposure, surface prep, and whether printed decals are laminated.
Will a decal damage the surface when removed?
Quality vinyl on a clean, cured surface removes cleanly. Heat from a hair dryer makes removal easier on older decals, and any adhesive residue wipes off with a citrus remover.
Can you make decals from my own logo?
Absolutely. Upload your artwork in a common format and we prepare production-ready decals, then send a proof for approval.
Do you ship custom decals nationwide?
Yes. We ship across all 50 states from our Indiana shop, with most orders moving within a few business days.
Get Your Custom Decals
Design custom decals online in minutes, or upload your artwork for a free proof. Made to order, premium USA-made vinyl, fast shipping.