Applying sticker sets to your go-kart bodies: follow these tips for the best results
A fresh new decal set can completely transform your kart. Whether you choose a standard design or a custom decal set, applying them correctly is crucial for a professional, long-lasting result. In this guide, we share all the tips and tricks for a perfect finish.
Preparation is half the battle
What do you need?
- Your new sticker set
- Degreaser or isopropyl alcohol (IPA)
- Clean, lint-free cloths
- Rakel or old bank pass
- Sharp utility knife or scissors
- Hair dryer or heat gun
- Patience and time!
Step-by-step: How to stick your sticker set
1. Cleaning the baking set
Start with a thoroughly clean surface. Remove all old sticker residue, dirt, grease, and dust. Use degreaser or isopropyl alcohol and a clean cloth. Let the containers dry completely before applying the stickers.
2. Dry fitting
First, place all the stickers in the correct position without applying them. This gives you a good idea of the placement and prevents surprises. If necessary, mark them with tape or a pencil.
3. Places
Peel off a small piece of the backing paper (about 2-3 cm), position the sticker carefully, and apply from the center outward. Use a squeegee to remove any air bubbles, applying firm pressure.
Gradually peel off more backing paper as you apply the sticker, a small section at a time. Continue raking from the center outward to push out any air bubbles. This method gives you complete control over the placement.
4. Remove air bubbles
You can rub out small air bubbles with a cloth, or alternatively, pierce them with a thin needle and then flatten them. Larger bubbles often mean you have to start over (partially). Carefully peel the sticker back to the bubble and try again.
5. Heating and finishing
Use a hairdryer to gently warm the stickers. This makes them more flexible and ensures better adhesion, especially on curves. Rub firmly over all edges again and press firmly.
6. Cutting and finishing
Trim off any excess sticker with a sharp knife. Be careful not to damage the containers. Heat the edges again and press them firmly.
Do's & Dont's
✅ DO's
- Work in a clean, dust-free environment - Dust under your stickers is permanently visible
- Take your time - Haste leads to mistakes and bubbles
- Work at room temperature - Too cold and the stickers stick poorly, too hot and they are difficult to handle.
- Use sufficient pressure - Squeegee firmly to ensure good adhesion
- Heat curves - This prevents wrinkles and ensures better adhesion
- Let it harden for 24-48 hours - Before you use the kart intensively again
- Gradually peel off the backing paper - Work in small sections for maximum control
- Test on a small area first - This way you get a feel for the material
❌ DONT's
- Do not stick on a dirty surface - The stickers will not stick well and will come off quickly
- Do not heat too hot - The stickers may shrink or discolour
- Do not pull the stickers too hard - They can stretch and no longer fit
- Do not stick in direct sunlight - The stickers may dry too quickly and become difficult to position
- Don't ignore air bubbles - They do not disappear by themselves and collect dirt and moisture
- Do not drive immediately after applying the adhesive - Give the glue time to harden
- Do not use water or soapy water - This seems useful but often causes adhesion problems
- Don't peel off the entire backing paper at once - You then lose control over the placement
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I remove old stickers?
Heat the old stickers with a hairdryer, carefully peel them off, and remove any adhesive residue with degreaser or a special sticker remover. Be patient to avoid damaging the containers.
Can I re-apply stickers if I make a mistake?
If you immediately notice the placement is incorrect, you can carefully peel it off and try again. The longer the sticker is stuck, the harder this will be. Therefore, always work carefully and check the position before finally pressing it down.
How long do kart stickers last?
When applied correctly and used normally, quality stickers last one to two seasons. Regular cleaning without harsh chemicals extends their lifespan.
Can I apply stickers to a used baking set?
Absolutely! Be sure to clean it extra thoroughly and check for damage. Small scratches aren't a problem, but deep scratches may still be visible through the sticker.
Do I need to protect the stickers with lacquer or coating?
Modern kart stickers are UV-resistant and don't require any additional protection. A coating can even dull the colors. A special protective layer is only useful in extreme conditions.
How do I maintain my stickers?
Clean your kart after every race with lukewarm water and a soft cloth. Avoid pressure washing directly on the decals and do not use harsh cleaning agents. Dry the kart thoroughly to prevent water marks.
What do I do with curves and difficult shapes?
Heat the sticker thoroughly with a hairdryer while applying it. The heat makes the material flexible and prevents wrinkles. Work slowly and press the sticker gradually, following the curve.
Where can I order sticker sets?
In our web shop Find designs for all popular chassis such as Formula K, Praga, CRG, and more. Looking for something unique? We also offer custom design services.
Extra tips for a professional result
- Practice on an old part first if you've never put stickers on before
- Ask for help with large stickers - an extra pair of hands makes it much easier
- Document your work - Take photos during the process, so you learn from each time
- Invest in good tools - A good squeegee and sharp blade make all the difference
- Check the temperature - Ideal is between 18-25°C for optimal adhesion
- Work from top to bottom - This prevents dust from falling on parts that have already been glued
Ready for a new look?
With these tips and tricks, you're ready to give your kart a professional new look. Take your time, work carefully, and the results will be impressive. Good luck with your kart upgrade! 🏁
Do you have questions about applying sticker sets or would you like advice on which design suits your kart? Feel free to contact us. contact with us!
