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Graphics for ATVs – Print Media Guide

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Graphics for ATVs - A Print Media Guide ATVs (all-terrain vehicles) and UTVs (utility vehicles) can be decorated with graphics and even full wraps. Choosing the proper print media is crucial because they’re likely to get scratched and covered in dirt, mud, water, snow, and any other harsh element the environment can produce.

Things to consider when choosing print media for ATVs

Overlaminate – A durable overlaminate is needed for optimal protection. Look for outdoor durability rating of 5-7 years and 1.5+ face thickness.

We recommend:

  • PERMACOLOR RAYzor LF3640

Print Media – A high-tack, permanent print media with 5+ years outdoor durability is recommended.

We recommend:

  • B free Gruv GVC929BDF

Prepping your ATV for graphics

Perfecting Surface Prep Before Wrapping a Vehicle

A clean surface is key when installing graphics. Unless the AVT is brand new, it’ll probably require a good amount of prep work.

  • Repair any deep surface scratches. If the surface is plastic, sand paper can be used to smooth out the scratch.
  • Remove any old graphics, use a heat gun if needed. Products such as Goo Gone Automotive can help remove leftover residue.
  • Wash the surface. Don’t use brush type automatic car washes as they are too harsh and will rub or chip away your wrap.
  • If additional cleaning is needed, degrease the plastic with contact a cleaner
  • Let the car air dry, or you can dry it off using a microfibre cloth or lint-free wipe. Do not use a heat drying method.

ATV Graphics Gallery

UTV decorated with a purple and black abstract design – via Pinterest
ATV featuring a unique camo design – via Pinterest
ATV with a traditional camouflage wrap – via Pinterest
Fully wrapped golf cart featuring a tie-dye design – via Pinterest
Golf cart wrapped in a floral pattern – via Pinterest
Dirt bike with custom “Metal Mulisha” graphics – via Pinterest

For more information, browse print media for vehicle graphics

Boat Wraps: An Overview

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Whale boat wrap by Marco Baccioli, via Behance

Wrapping a boat, in many ways is similar to wrapping a land vehicle. Some installers might say its actually easier because a wrap is applied in large panels, and there are no doors, windows and numerous other rivets and obstacles to worry about. Here are some popular questions and answers regarding boat wraps:

Q. Who is the typical Boat Wrap Customer?

boat-wraps-installation A. Customers in the market for a boat wrap are typically individual boat owners looking to dress up their boat. Many are looking to personalize their new boat with a solid color wrap or to “repaint” older hulls. Boat wraps are also a common request among professional fisherman, competition boaters, tour boats, and boats used for promotional purposes at events.

Q. Does the vinyl differ from regular vinyl used to wrap land vehicles?

Vinyl manufacturers usually offer a selection of media specifically intended for marine use. Some manufacturers have products that can be used for both marine and land vehicle wraps. They will need to stand up to all of the harsh elements that a land wrap will encounter with the addition of the harsh effects of water and possibly salt. Check with the manufacturer to see their recommendations.

What type of vinyl is ideal for boat wraps?

wrapping_a_boat Something that is easy to apply and handle (an installer usually deals with large panels so this is important) and can be installed fast is key. A vinyl should contain an adhesive that produces no bubbles should be used. Polymeric vinyl and cast vinyl are popular marine substrates and an overlaminate is also recommended for certain applications. Again, it is best to check with the wrap manufacturer for the ideal media.

Things to look for before choosing boat vinyl

  • High-tack adhesive
  • Permanent, non-damaging adhesive
  • Long-term durability
  • Good resistance to salts, alkalis, fuel, oils and greases
  • Good fade resistance from UV exposure

What considerations should a designer take when creating a boat wrap?

Its important to take into consideration the complexity of the nose of the boat. Templates are flat and its difficult to visualize just how skewed the curve may be. If possible, print out the design and create a paper model of the boat to aid with visualization.

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