This tutorial demonstrates how to wrap a vehicle antenna using vinyl wrap. Trying to stretch a single piece of vinyl over an entire antenna takes too long and can cause the material to fail over time. The video shows how to break down the object and wrap it in two pieces so that it looks like a single piece. The first step is hiding the seam on the rear body lines. Lay down the first piece of vinyl, heat the back section, and pull the heated material over the body line. Before making any cuts, post heat the film to lock the shape in place. Next, cut carefully along the body line. Installers who are not comfortable cutting with a blade can use knifeless tape instead. Remove the excess vinyl and post heat the area to secure the inlay. Next, position the main overlay piece. Lay it down and lock it in at the front of the antenna. Grab the material, heat it, and glass it out over the sides. Push all trapped air out from the body line and guide the material over the outer edge. Cut the vinyl an eighth of an inch past the seam created on the body line. Remove the excess film, then work the remaining edge underneath the antenna base. Trim any remaining excess material to complete the seamless installation. Aura Vinyl vinyl wrap features a PET backing and German-made adhesive for smooth handling and repositioning.
FAQ
Why should you wrap an antenna in two pieces instead of one?
Stretching a single piece of vinyl over an antenna takes too long and can fail over time. Wrapping in two pieces allows you to hide seams along body lines while keeping proper tension.
What can you use if you are not comfortable cutting vinyl with a blade?
You can use knifeless tape along the body lines to cut the vinyl safely without damaging the underlying surface.
Why do you post heat the vinyl before cutting along the body line?
Post heating the film before cutting locks the stretched shape into place so it stays positioned properly along the edge.